4 Home Remedies to Minimize Stretch Marks Appearance-Mr.Harish Jagtani

 Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a common skin condition usually led by a rapid loss or gain in the body weight. New stretch marks appear as indented streaks of bright pink, red, blue, purple or black colours and these marks become whiter and lighter in colour over time. Stretch marks occur naturally as scarring from skin damage and rarely indicate any underlying health condition. They may fade on their own eventually, however, they do not disappear without treatment. 

When do you get stretch marks? 

Stretch marks usually appear when there are sudden weight changes. Both men and women can develop stretch marks, however, they are more common in women. Factors that can lead to stretch marks formation include: 

• Obesity 
• A rapid increase in muscle size (maybe through weightlifting) 
• Pregnancy 
• Rapid loss of weight 
• Growth spurts in teenagers 
• Breast enlargement surgery 
• Medication side effects 
• Corticosteroid medication 
• Genetic disorders like Marfan syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome 

Common places where a person may develop stretch marks include the abdomen, hips, buttocks, breasts, upper arms, etc. 

When do you need to seek medical attention? 

Since stretch marks are not a sign of a disease or health anomaly, they do not require immediate medical attention in usual cases. However, you should see your doctor: 

• If your stretch marks are a cosmetic concern (i.e. you are concerned about the appearance of your skin) 
• If they cover a large area of your body 
• If you have not experienced major weight changes and are unable to understand its cause 

Are there any home remedies to lighten stretch marks? 

Some home remedies can quicken the fading of stretch marks by diminishing their appearance. Prominent or widespread stretch marks are hard to treat via home remedies and may need clinical treatment. 

• Using over-the-counter topical cosmetic creams containing vitamin A can help improve the skin’s overall health and appearance. It is suggested to include foods rich in vitamin A, like carrots and sweet potatoes, in your diet for improved skin health. You may consult a dermatologist to find the right topical cream or extract of vitamin A. 
• Applying pure coconut oil can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks since it has natural healing properties. Before using coconut oil, make sure that you are not allergic to it. 
• Hyaluronic acid can prove to be beneficial in the treatment of stretch marks. This is because it stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep your skin healthy and in shape. You may consume a capsule or apply its extract over the affected area. 
• Sugar scrubs can work as a naturopathic version of the microdermabrasion method. Microdermabrasion is a clinical treatment that involves skin exfoliation. Thus, you may try using a DIY scrub made with sugar, coconut/almond oil and some lemon juice. However, you will need to use this home remedy several times a week for a couple of months to start seeing results. 

How to get rid of stretch marks quicker? 

Home remedies may take several months to show their effect and even after using them for a few months, the marks do not disappear completely. Clinical treatments are available for widespread and prominent stretch marks. These include laser therapy, needling and microder mabrasion. Consult a dermatologist to find the right treatment course for your stretch marks as the doctor may prescribe you a combination of such therapies along with medication and topical creams for faster results. 

Harish Jagtani hospitals houses a state-of-the-art dermatology department manned by internationally recognized dermatologists, doctors and surgeons. Clinical and cosmetic treatments for various requirements such as stretch marks removal, skin tightening, body fat removal, allergy testing, etc. are available here. So, schedule your appointment today and seek world-class healthcare facilities in DR Congo.

Mr.Harish Jagtani