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Treatment Options for Stretch Marks
2007-09-12
Dear Dr. Proskiw;
I am 30 years old, and pregnant for the third time in 8 years. My husband and I always wanted more than two kids, but I developed stretch marks during my first pregnancy. They are clearly visible on my abdomen and thighs, and despite staying active and watching my weight the stretch marks continued to develop. My husband says I still look great and the marks are only a sign that I am a beautiful mother. What causes stretch marks?
Answer:
I am asked about stretch marks frequently. My daughter is pregnant and her due date is fast approaching. She has been always worried about developing stretch marks, but has been fortunate that none have developed. She continues to apply Vitamin E creams and moisturizers to keep the skin well lubricated and hydrated. This can be helpful to increase skin elasticity, however it is important to recognize that topical creams do little to reach the deeper layers of skin, where stretch marks develop.
Stretch marks are caused by scarring in the middle layer of the skin, when rapid growth has caused this elastic layer to lose its support and shape. The marks are reddish-purple at first and then turn silvery-white in color. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most likely to occur where the body stores larger amounts of fat. The most common areas are the abdomen (especially around the belly button), breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs, hips and buttocks.
Question:
How can I prevent stretch marks from occurring?
Between 75% and 90% of women develop stretch marks to some degree during pregnancy. The elevated hormone levels that naturally come with pregnancy usually mean that stretch marks develop during the sixth or seventh month. Other cause of stretch marks include rapid weight gain, obesity, weight lifting with rapid gain of muscle mass, and some medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome.
Genetics play an important role in the development stretch marks but I believe there are several things you can do to help minimize their formation. Studies show that daily application of Vitamin E oil combined with collagen hydrolsylates can reduce the likelihood of stretch mark formation during pregnancy. Other moisturizers may help, but no scientific studies have been done to test other creams such as cocoa butter, Vaseline, cold creams, etc. I like to suggest the following nutritional program to help minimize stretch mark formation:
1. Adequate water intake 6 – 8 glasses per day
2. Zinc rich foods such as nuts or fish
3. Foods high in vitamins A, C, D, such as carrots, citrus foods and milk
4. Protein rich foods such as eggs, soy products, garbanzos, chicken, fish, beef, etc.
5. Daily application of Vitamin E oil or creams to susceptible stretch mark areas.
6. Moderate daily exercise and weight control
7. Adequate rest
8. Positive mental attitude
Question:
Are there any treatments available for the purpose of improving the appearance of existing stretch marks?
Yes, the application of Retin-A or retinoid creams after the pregnancy can help in some cases. This may result in a significant cosmetic improvement, however the most exciting and positive improvements can be seen when using radiofrequency devices such as Accent, Thermage, and Microthermal Laser Tightening (MLT). MLT offers the most promising treatment option for stretch marks. These lasers selectively heat and tighten the dermis by microscopically affecting the skin, and offer no down time. Therefore, it is a painless treatment option for a busy mother. Treatments should be started as soon as possible after the baby is born to improve the color, and minimize the size of the stretch marks.
Talk to your Primary Care Physician or qualified Aesthetic Physician if you have further questions.
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