Stretch Marks

Can You Really Make Stretch Marks Disappear?

Original Source : Mona Gohara, M.D / http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

Image Credit :  http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

Thanks to rapid weight changes or growth, your collagen and elastin (the stuff that keeps your skin taut) can weaken. And you know what that means — stretch marks or as they're known in the medical world, viola striae, will appear.

Most of us will get them; at least 70% of pregnant women do. So is there a way to really make them magically disappear? Unfortunately, no. But that doesn't mean you can't make them look less unsightly. Here's how:

1. Slather on fading creams.

Some form of Retin-A is usually the best choice. "Topical retinoids promote collagen production which may, over time, improve the texture and appearance of stretch marks," says Ginette Okoye MD, assistant professor of dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medical Center. The downside? Retinoids can be irritating, and it may be months before you notice a small difference. And if you swear by cocoa butter to keep stretch marks at bay, unfortunately there's no science to support that it really works.

2. Try laser treatments.

Dr. Tina Alster, director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, recommends one to two micro-needling or Fraxel laser treatments for substantial improvement. If your marks are still pretty noticeable, there's also a laser treatment that can remove the reddish color, says Alster. Just consult with your doctor first to figure out which one would work best for you.

3. Consider camouflaging them.

If creams and lasers aren't your thing, but those lines are making you pretty self conscious, try using body makeup to even out your complexion. Dermablend is a good choice — not only is it waterproof (you can even wear it while swimming!), but it also comes in a multitude of shades for a variety of skin tones.

4. Wear them proudly.

If you have them, you might as well own them. Created by two moms, the #Loveyourlines Instagram account is devoted to "celebrating real women, real bodies, and real self-love." And with over 100K followers, there must be something to embracing all your imperfections. So take a pic and share your marks with the world.