So You Have Stretch Marks

Firstly, if you have stretch marks, you are not alone. In fact the majority of people have stretch marks (including men). Why do you have stretch marks if you've never been pregnant? Or what can you do to remove your stretch marks now that you have given birth?

What are they?

Stretch marks are the tearing of the deeper layers of your skin after a rapid stretching (during adolescence, after gaining weight, and during pregnancy). They are in fact scars.

Will they go away on their own?

If you are worried about stretch marks from adolescence, chances are that they will fade away. Other than that, it really varies. It depends on how deep they are, how dark they are, and how motivate you are to rid yourself of them. Most stretch marks will lose their reddish purplish color in as short as a few months to as long as a few years. However, they will become glossy and appear silver or white in color.

What can I do to remove them?

Some doctors will say there really is nothing you can do about it. Others will say otherwise, however, the results may vary. Some topical creams claim that they work on older stretch marks. This may or may not be true. But if you do use topical creams, it is best to use them upon first finding your stretch marks. Some doctors may prescribe you Retin-A (it is to rejuvenate skin), but some people find that it is irritating to their skin. You can see a dermatologist for laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, which are said to be effective, but I couldn't tell you the cost. Lastly, you can purchase some Mederma. This is a cream that CAN remove scars. At least it can remove newer scars. I know, I've used it on some really bad scarring. I wouldn't say that it is expensive, but it isn't exactly cheap. Either way, I know for a fact that this works. You need to be disciplined though, because it should be applied about 3-4 times a day.

What can I do to just cover them?

That's simple enough. Just wear clothing that will cover you where it is needed. Or you can use some sunless tanner. I hear that this is a great way to hide stretch marks.

Whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck.