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Prevention Is Difficult | | Because stretch marks are primarily the result of hormonal changes—especially the very natural hormonal changes of puberty and pregnancy—it’s difficult to prevent their occurrence. The appearance of newly forming stretch marks can be sometimes minimized, however, with the timely application of topical steroids combined with retinoid and/or alpha-hydroxy creams. | Over-the-Counter Creams Not Effective These are not the same over-the-counter “drugstore” creams and lotions that are sometimes touted for stretch marks. A 2008 study published in the BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, for example, found that cocoa butter was no more effective than a placebo cream for preventing stretch marks during pregnancy.Such products may make your skin feel better, but they won’t do anything to prevent stretch marks. A Combination that Works Using steroid creams to prevent and treat stretch marks may seem odd, given that such creams can actually induce stretch marks on otherwise normal skin. But because stretch marks are caused by inflammation in the skin and because steroid creams help reduce inflammation, topical steroid products can be helpful with stretch marks—as long as an alpha-hydroxy acid or retinoid cream is also applied to the skin. They help counter the negative effects of the steroid creams. They also have the added benefit of remodeling the skin’s collagen, thus improving its overall appearance.Of course, pregnant women should not use retinoids, even topical ones. Talk to your doctor about which combination of medicated creams is right for you and your skin. Other Products Topical products with active ingredients that purposely target stretch marks also have been shown to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Again, they can’t prevent the marks from appearing, but they may be able to help them fade from view. These products include Trilastin-SR, StriVectin-SD, and Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy. Ask your physician about whether any of these products might be beneficial for you.Last Updated: May 19, 2011 |
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Dr. Eric F. Bernstein discusses the use of topicals for stretch marks.
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