Stretch marks, also referred to as striae, are a form of scar that usually occurs due to rapid skin expansion or contraction. This type of scarring can appear across the thighs, stomach, hips, or other body parts. Additionally, they occur due to genetics, body mass gain, puberty, and pregnancy. However, some home remedies can help you get rid of them. Some effective methods that help prevent or remove stretch marks are listed below.

Identifying the cause behind stretch marks
Stretch marks are thin, long streaks of line that form on the skin, and their color varies from pink and silver to purple. The scars form when the skin expands or shrinks continuously, leading to the breakdown of elastin and collagen fibers. Furthermore, several factors cause the stretching, ranging from genetics to the degree of stress the skin experiences. Additionally, the hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands is known to play a significant role. A high cortisol level weakens the elastic fibers along the skin, leading to stretch marks. Moreover, there are several other reasons behind the appearance of stretch marks, some of which are listed below.

• Family history of the scar.
• Pregnancy
• Rapid development during the adolescence period
• A rapid increase in body mass
• Genetic disorders like Cushing syndrome

Women are more prone to getting stretch marks compared to men.

Ways to manage stretch marks
There are multiple ways to fade the appearance of these scars, some of which are listed below.

Stretch mark removal products
There are multiple kinds of stretch mark removal products available in the market, including everything from creams to oils. Some top choices include-

• Bioorganic oils– The formula comprises a combination of plant extracts and vitamins, which together aid in diminishing the appearance of stretch marks.
• Topical creams– Many of the creams include a strong combination of peptides and antioxidants, which work towards improving the skin’s texture and reducing the appearance of scars.
• Furthermore, products that include hyaluronic acid are also known to help fade the streaks, as the ingredient aids in moisturizing and healing the skin.

Using natural ingredients
Several home remedies prove effective in treating stretch marks. Some natural remedies one can use are listed below.

• Applying aloe vera on the affected area provides soothing and healing properties, which help fade the scars.
• The use of coconut oil along the affected area is another home remedy that people widely use to get rid of stretch marks. It is because it comprises healthy fatty acids which assist in moisturizing the skin and removing dryness. Additionally, it also aids in treating any skin infection. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil help shorten the healing time for existing stretch marks.
• Centella asiatica herb is another helpful home remedy to treat scars because it aids in lowering inflammation and boosting collagen production. Additionally, the herb also helps nourish and repair sensitive skin.

Microdermabrasion
It is another popular method to fade stretch marks. It involves exfoliating the affected area with a handheld device after applying an abrasive substance and softly scrubbing to remove the dead cells.

Laser therapy
People looking to achieve visible results in less time opt for laser treatments. The therapy uses beams of laser light along the affected area to stimulate the production of elastin and collagen. These treatments are effective but can be costly and necessitate multiple sessions to achieve the result.

Microneedling
It is a treatment option for stretch marks wherein multiple tiny holes are created on the skin with the help of a device to stimulate the production of elastin and collagen and make loose skin appear tighter.

Prevention
No fixed method can help in stretch mark prevention, but there are specific ways that help lower the risk of development, including-

• Maintaining a consistent body mass- Unhealthy body mass causes severe stress on the skin, which results in stretch marks. Therefore, following an active lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body mass is significant to prevent the formation of scars.
• Drinking enough water- Dehydration causes severe distress to the skin and reduces its elasticity. Therefore, drinking enough water during the day is important to keep the skin hydrated and nourished.
• Following a healthy meal plan- A nutritional regime comprising healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals aid in keeping the skin supple and healthy. It also helps intercept the breakdown of elastin and collagen fibers.

Stretch marks aren’t a significant source of concern, as most scars fade over time. However, management options like the ones listed above help make them less noticeable more quickly. Consult a health expert before opting for any remedy to determine if the treatment works for your condition.