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Stretch marks are an unwelcome and displeasing side effect of most pregnancies. They also affect people on a 'weight loss, weight gain' seesaw. So, yo-yo dieters, beware! 

Even though stretch marks predominantly affect women, men can have them, too. Anyone who loses or gains weight rapidly is at risk. Stretch marks can also be a consequence of rapid growth during puberty. Bodybuilders often have to face this issue, especially those using anabolic steroids. 

Stretch Marks Defined

Stretch marks, also known as striae distensae (SD), are tears and scars that form when your skin cannot stretch quick enough (or anymore). The tearing affects the middle layer of skin, called the dermis. The role of the dermis is to retain the shape of the skin, but rapid stretching thins it, and it then tears more easily. All these results in linear striations (stretch marks) that become visible on the upper layer of skin (epidermis).

When they first appear, the stretch marks have a pinkish or purplish hue and cause a burning or itching sensation. In time, and in most cases, the normal pigmentation of the skin is somewhat restored, and the discomfort ceases. Unfortunately, the tears remain shiny and visible, although to a smaller extent. The skin texture remains altered as well, and you can feel the indentations along the rippled lines under your fingers.

Stretch marks typically appear on the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. In bodybuilders, they usually affect the upper arms. Even though they are not harmful, nor cause any discomfort, these scars cause emotional distress.

You cannot do much to prevent your skin from tearing during pregnancy or sudden weight change, especially if you have a family history of stretch marks. Hormonal changes play a significant role, too. 

Skin is flexible to a certain point, but when the line is crossed, the tears and scaring become inevitable. Taking good care of your skin can help, but even the best skincare products on the market cannot always prevent stretch marks. 

Fighting Back

Unfortunately, the research conducted so far has failed in providing a secret cure-all ingredient for stretch marks. The hope remains since some treatments and remedies did show promising results. 

Laser stretch mark removal is one of the most successful stretch mark treatments. This skin resurfacing treatment has been proven to help the skin heal and appear smoother. 

The success rate is greater the earlier you start. So, it would be best to treat the tears as soon as you notice them, ideally while they are still red. The redness indicates there are still working blood vessels and collagen production in the skin. Such skin will respond better to laser treatments. 

How do laser treatments work?

Lasers are light energy-based devices that deliver concentrated rays of light. The cohesive and monochromatic light energy is applied to the skin since it is known to affect specific tissue chromophores, such as water, hemoglobin, and melanin. Laser treatments work in three directions: increasing collagen production and melanin pigmentation, and decreasing vascularity. In this way, they aid in stretch mark therapy as well.

Do not hope for a miracle! Laser treatments stimulate new growth and smooth out the scars to some extent, but they cannot erase them. Striae represent a permanent change in the dermis; laser treatments can only lessen their depth with an improvement rate ranging from 20 to 60%.

Disappointed? It is better to have realistic expectations than spend your hard-earned money believing you'll get your perfect-looking skin back. Maximum results require multiple laser treatment sessions, and they do not come cheap. You should make an informed decision rather than succumbing to false promises. 

Be careful who you trust! Laser treatments should be performed by board-certified practitioners only. You should consult your doctor before committing to any type of laser treatment. People with darker skin types are generally advised against laser therapy due to the high risk of hyperpigmentation changes.

The good news is that laser treatments are not hurtful. The treated area is always covered in topical anesthetic, and the patient feels only slight discomfort. The bad news is that laser treatments have possible side effects, such as skin abrasions, itching, bleeding, and scabbing. 

Natural Remedies

No natural oil, cream, or gel will be nearly as effective as laser therapy, but that does not mean you should not use them. Topical treatments help with hydration and speed up your skin's healing processes. 

Look for ingredients such as Vitamin A (retinoid), Hyaluronic acid, Centella, Aloe Vera, and coconut oil. It should not be a difficult venture, they are used in most over-the-counter topical cosmetic creams. 

Natural skin care products can be used for prevention as well as a part of the stretch mark treatment. They moisturize, calm, and repair the skin. Keep in mind that even organic topical creams can occasionally cause allergies or sensitivities, too. Stop the use as soon as you notice any unwanted reaction.