How to remove stretch marks caused by obesity
Oct 14, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, stretch marks, also known as "growth lines," may form due to rapid weight gain, decreased skin elasticity, genetic factors, hormonal changes, or medication side effects. They can usually be treated or removed through methods such as topical medications, chemical peels using alpha-hydroxy acids, autologous fat transplantation, microneedling, photorejuvenation, and fractional laser therapy.
Generally, stretch marks, also known as "growth lines," may form due to rapid weight gain, decreased skin elasticity, genetic factors, hormonal changes, or medication side effects. They can typically be treated through methods such as topical medications, chemical peels (using fruit acids), autologous fat grafting, microneedling therapy, photorejuvenation (intense pulsed light), and fractional laser treatment. It is recommended to visit a reputable medical institution and choose the most suitable method under professional medical guidance.
Growth stretch marks caused by rapid weight gain occur when body weight increases significantly in a short period, leading to excessive stretching of the skin and resulting in stretch marks. Weight should be controlled, and intake of high-sugar, high-fat foods—such as fried chicken, fried dough sticks (youtiao), and hamburgers—should be reduced. Stretch marks due to decreased skin elasticity may result from skeletal, muscular, or fat growth causing断裂 of skin fibers and reduced elasticity. In such cases, skin massage and moisturizing care are recommended; additionally, medications such as tretinoin cream or urea cream may be used under medical supervision for improvement. Genetically influenced stretch marks often run in families, increasing an individual's likelihood of developing them. These types can usually be improved with aesthetic treatments like photorejuvenation or fractional laser therapy. Hormonal changes that lead to stretch marks are typically caused by excessive hormone secretion affecting skin elasticity and stability. In such cases, long-term use of certain medications should be avoided as directed by a physician.
Analysis of Treatments for Removing Stretch Marks:
Treatment Name |
Chemical Peel (Fruit Acid) |
Autologous Fat Grafting |
Microneedling Therapy |
Photorejuvenation |
Fractional Laser |
Principle |
Uses chemical exfoliation to promote epidermal keratinocyte turnover and improve skin texture at stretch mark sites |
Harvests patient’s own fat, processes it, and injects it into depressed stretch mark areas to smooth the skin surface |
Uses micro-needles to create tiny channels in the skin, activating the skin’s self-repair mechanism and stimulating collagen production to improve stretch marks |
Applies specific wavelengths of light to the skin to stimulate collagen regeneration and repair stretch marks |
Creates microscopic thermal injury zones in the skin to trigger self-repair, promoting collagen remodeling and reducing the appearance of stretch marks |
Advantages |
1. Precise |
1. Simple procedure |
1. Simple procedure |
1. Brightens skin tone |
1. Clean |
Potential Risks |
1. Irritation |
1. Congestion |
1. Skin damage |
1. Swelling |
1. Redness and swelling |
Frequency |
1–2 times per month |
1–2 times per month |
3–5 times per month |
7–10 times per month |
3–5 times per month |
Duration of Effect |
2–3 years |
3–5 years |
1–2 years |
2–3 years |
2–3 years |
Cost |
2,000–3,000 RMB per session |
2,000–10,000 RMB per session |
3,000–8,000 RMB per session |
1,000–3,000 RMB per session |
1,000–5,000 RMB per session |
After removing stretch marks, proper local care is essential to prevent infection. Daily attention should be paid to dietary adjustments, avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and garlic.
