Health Information and Self Care Advice for Scotland

Stretch marks

Treatment

 There is no specific treatment for stretch marks. Most stretch marks fade over time and arent that noticeable. However, if you have a lot of stretch marks, if they affect a large part of your body, or if you are worried they look unsightly, the following treatments may help:

Moisturisers and creams:

In the early stages, stretch marks can sometimes be reduced with over-the-counter moisturising creams, particularly those containing vitamin E or vitamin A. Creams containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are made with plant extracts and can also help. Clinical studies have not proved that these sorts of creams can prevent stretch marks, but they may improve the look of stretch marks in the short-term.  Using these types of cream daily can help to keep the skin supple, and the action of rubbing in the cream can encourage better circulation.

Tretinoin, or Retin-A:

These types of cream are derived from vitamin A and are available on prescription. They make the outer layer of skin thinner, so that the cream can get to the dermis, where it increases the amount of collagen produced. These creams shouldnt be used without advice from your GP because they can cause side effects. Strong doses can cause the skin to sting, swell and become red, and may also make it more sensitive to sunlight. The skin may also get thicker because of the increase in the amount of collagen produced. Tretinoin is not recommended for use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. People taking Retin-A should avoid taking vitamin A supplements at the same time.

Laser surgery:

Laser surgery does not remove stretch marks, but it can help them to fade. Laser treatment for stretch mark is not available on the NHS and is usually very expensive. Laser treatment only picks up dark areas of skin, so it most useful in the early stages when stretch marks are darker in colour. A series of treatments are usually necessary for visible results, but this depends on your skin colour and type.

 Surgery:

An operation called an abdominoplasty is carried out to remove excess fat and skin around the abdomen (stomach), and remove stretch marks below the belly button at the same time. Surgery is a very expensive and extreme option. It is not available on the NHS and is rarely recommended.

Last updated on 27 June 2007 04:48 PM