How to remove stretch marks, how to eliminate them
Feb 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, stretch marks may be caused by factors such as puberty, pregnancy, smoking, rapid weight gain, Cushing's syndrome, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with recovery through general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention under the guidance of a qualified physician. Appropriate treatment methods should be selected based on individual circumstances.
Generally, stretch marks mainly occur during periods such as puberty, pregnancy, or rapid weight gain or loss. They result from the rupture of skin's elastic and collagen fibers due to excessive stretching. They can be removed or improved through daily skincare, topical medications, laser treatments, radiofrequency therapy, and chemical peels such as glycolic acid peels. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Daily Skincare
Consistently applying body lotions containing ingredients such as olive oil, vitamin E, and centella asiatica can help replenish skin moisture and nutrients, enhancing skin elasticity. Apply an appropriate amount of product evenly on the affected areas daily, massaging until absorbed. Long-term adherence can help fade stretch marks to some extent.
2. Topical Medications
Retic acid-based medications, such as tretinoin cream, are commonly used. They regulate epidermal cell growth and differentiation, promote collagen synthesis, and enhance skin elasticity, thereby reducing the appearance of stretch marks. However, tretinoin cream is photosensitive, so strict sun protection is required during use. It is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
3. Laser Treatment
For example, fractional laser therapy creates microscopic thermal injury zones that stimulate the skin's self-repair mechanisms, promoting collagen and elastic fiber regeneration and remodeling, thus effectively reducing stretch marks. Multiple sessions are generally required, with intervals of 1–3 months between each session.
4. Radiofrequency Treatment
This method primarily uses radiofrequency energy to heat deep skin tissues, causing collagen contraction and denaturation, while stimulating the production of new collagen. This improves skin texture and elasticity, thereby reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Typically, 3–6 sessions are needed, with intervals of 4–6 weeks between treatments.
5. Glycolic Acid Peel
High-concentration glycolic acid is applied to the skin surface to promote the shedding of aged keratinocytes, accelerate the turnover of keratinocytes and some superficial epidermal cells, and stimulate the proliferation of elastic fibers in the dermis, which can help fade stretch marks. Treatments are typically performed every 4–6 weeks and require multiple sessions.
If necessary, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo procedures under the guidance of a qualified physician to reduce procedural risks. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and engaging in appropriate exercise to maintain a stable, healthy weight can also help alleviate symptoms.
