| TriLastin-SRThis cream contains active ingredients—called "collagen-infused microspheres" by the product's manufacturer, EC Research Cosmeceuticals—that penetrate the skin’s surface to repair the deeper damaged skin cells that are causing the stretch marks. The microspheres encourage the underlying skin cells to absorb moisture and swell. That process, in turn, smoothes out the furrows that contribute to the appearance of stretch marks. The ingredients also help lighten the marks. TriLastin is applied twice a day. Although it works on all skin types and on old as well as new stretch marks, not everyone responds to the treatment. Results begin to appear in three to four weeks, although it may take two to three months before you notice any significant changes in the appearance of your stretch marks. Once treatment is over, the marks will not reappear. StriVectin-SDThis cream contains peptides that stimulate collagen production and thus help repair the damaged skin cells that cause stretch marks, according to its manufacturer, Klein-Becker. The company also claims the product can help improve the skin’s texture and tone.StriVectin-SD is applied twice a day for two to eight weeks. It can be used on all skin types and on old stretch marks. Although the cream is safe to use, even by pregnant women, some people experience a blushing and warmth on the treated area during the first few applications. This is because the niacin in the product may cause small blood vessels to expand. These symptoms disappear within an hour or two. Mederma Stretch Marks TherapyThis cream has an onion extract (allium cepa) as its active ingredient. Onion is believed to act as an anti-inflammatory. Among the cream’s other ingredients are pennywort, another anti-inflammatory, and sulfur, which help fights bacteria and infections. Mederma's German manufacturer, Merz Pharmaceuticals, says the cream softens and smoothes stretch marks. In a company-funded 2010 study involving 54 women, Mederma was found to significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the women’s thighs. Some 80 percent of the women exhibited at least a 40 percent difference in the overall appearance of their stretch marks by the end of the 12-week study. Most of the women began to notice the improvements after two weeks of treatment, although the greatest improvements became evident around the eighth week. Mederma is applied twice a day. Clinical trials have turned up no adverse side effects. Last Updated: April 27, 2012 |