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Can You Get Rid of Stretch Marks Naturally?Dermatologists and real women share their favorite remedies for preventing and erasing stretch marks |
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So, what causes stretch marks, and how can you get rid of stretch marks? Stretch marks can form any time you grow faster than your skin can keep pace, says Dr. Doris Day, clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University Langone Medical Center and the author of "Forget the Facelift." Since the tears are happening at the dermis or middle layer of the skin, science is hard-pressed to prove that any topical product applied to the top of the skin will penetrate to prevent or heal these tears. And yet, internet forums are full of women professing their love for stretch mark creams, lotions and home remedies that prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.
Dermatologists, meanwhile, say other factors may be at play. "Skin is hereditary and some women are simply genetically predisposed to not get stretch marks," Day says. Also, the slower you gain weight, she says, the less likely you are to get stretch marks. "The best way to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy is to gain weight consistently," she says. "Don't get too big too fast."
(If you're determined to try a regimen of stretch mark prevention or treatment potions anyway, skip ahead to see the top-rated stretch mark creams now.)
As for how to remove stretch marks, dermatologists say they can reverse newly formed scars using one to three pulsed dye laser treatments in-office over the course of a month. The laser causes a wound in the skin, and when new skin is formed, the stretch marks are diminished. Dr. Day has also found success with a device called Endymed, which can be used on old stretch marks as well as new. It combines micro-needling with radio frequency to stimulate collagen and contract the skin. "It can take a few treatments," she says. "The important thing is to manage your expectations. The stretch marks can be improved but they won't be all gone."
Other options? The best stretch mark creams that claim to reduce their appearance are packed with good-for-your-skin nutrients that may temporarily smooth out the skin.. There are also dozens of Pinterest pages devoted to home remedies that supposedly get rid of stretch marks (though we recommend trying those with skepticism -- and caution). And, know that over time, the appearance of stretch marks, as all scars, will diminish on their own. Until then, you can, like Sports Illustrated model Chrissy Teigen, who posted a photo of herself on Instagram revealing her stretch marks (nicknamed "stretchies"), be okay with what is.
Here, the top-rated stretch mark creams for preventing and getting rid of your "stretchies."
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