How Can I Treat My Stretchmarks?
It’s a very common question. First, know that stretchmarks are completely normal during pregnancy. While you may not notice stretch marks in the first trimester as your bundle of joy begins to grow, as time progresses you may find yourself noticing more lines or streaks on your skin. These marks occur when there are rapid stretches and shrinking in our skin. Stretch marks can vary in size, color, and areas of the body. The most common areas to experience stretch marks occur on the stomach, breasts, arms, legs, and buttocks.
What products can I use to help prevent stretchmarks during pregnancy?
Fortunately, there are skincare products and treatments that can help to treat stretch marks. In skincare products, there are two ingredients that have been shown to help in the prevention of stretchmark formation are Centella asiatica extract and hyaluronic acid. Five products that contain Centella asiatica are:
–La Roche Posay Cicaplast B5 Baume
-Revitalift Cicacream
What ingredients help once stretchmarks have formed?
The answer is tretinoin 0.05% or higher as well as hyaluronic acid. It is helpful if these are massaged over newly formed stretchmarks that are red or pink in color. Additionally, these ingredients should be applied for at least 6 months.
Are there skincare treatments that can help minimize the appearances of stretchmarks?
Yes. Resurfacing lasers such as Fraxel® and lasers that target redness such as Excel V® can be used in conjunction to help minimize the appearance of stretchmarks. Other modalities that can be used are Microneedling +/- radiofrequency, IPL, PRP injections, microdermabrasion, and even chemical peels.
