Stretch marks are a common skin condition with a variety of treatments. While treatments may help stretch marks fade, it won’t completely get rid of them.
Stretch marks are areas of skin that look like lines or stripes. They’re scars caused by tiny tears in the dermis layer of skin.
Stretch marks occur when the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers are stretched, like when a person grows or gains weight rapidly. Over time, they typically take on a lighter, scarlike appearance.
According to a 2013 analysis, between 50 and 80 percent of people get stretch marks. There are a number of treatment options for stretch marks. But while treatment may fade stretch marks for the most part, it won’t cause them to completely disappear.
After determining the cause of the stretch marks on your backside, your doctor might recommend a topical treatment. This is the most common method for treating stretch marks. Topicals include:
- Tretinoin cream.
Some studies have found tretinoin cream improved the appearance of stretch marks. - Trofolastin and alphastria creams. A
2016 review notes these creams can provide positive results. - Silicone gel. A small 2013 studyfound silicone gel increased collagen levels and lowered melanin levels in stretch marks.
There are various treatment options focused on stretch marks. However, keep in mind treatments can’t completely eliminate them. Options include:
- Laser therapy. Laser therapy may help fade stretch marks. Typically, several weeks of treatment is necessary. It may take up to 20 sessions.
- Platelet-rich plasma. According to a 2018 article, injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can help rebuild collagen, making stretch marks less visible.
- Microneedling. Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling makes tiny punctures in the top layer of skin to trigger elastin and collagen production. It often takes up to six treatments over about six months to maximize results.
- Microdermabrasion. A
2014 study found that microdermabrasion had the same level of impact on stretch marks as tretinoin cream.
Here are some ways you can treat stretch marks at home:
Eat a healthy diet
Since diet can affect skin health, it’s logical that diet would play a role in stretch marks. To prevent stretch marks, eat a healthy, balanced diet. Make sure to get plenty of vitamins and minerals, particularly:
Try oils
A number of people claim oil can reduce or eliminate the appearance of treat stretch marks, including:
However, a 2015 review reports cocoa butter and olive oil didn’t demonstrate any positive effect.
On the other hand, a
Here are 12 essential oils to try to heal and prevent stretch marks.
Avoid corticosteroids
Avoid the use of corticosteroid creams, lotions, and pills. They decrease the skin’s ability to stretch, which can cause stretch marks.
Stay hydrated
Drink enough water — about eight glasses a day. If your skin doesn’t get enough hydration, it’ll be less resilient.
Stretch marks are the result of a number of causes, including:
- puberty
- pregnancy
- obesity
- a family history of stretch marks
- overuse of cortisone skin creams
- medications that block collagen formation
- Cushing syndrome
- Marfan syndrome
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
- abnormal collagen formation
If you notice stretch marks but don’t have an explanation as to why they’ve appeared, such as pregnancy or weight gain, make an appointment with your doctor. They can check to see if an underlying condition is causing the stretch marks.
Stretch marks are very normal, and many people have them on their butt and elsewhere. If you feel upset about your stretch marks and they’re interfering with your daily life, consult your doctor for help.
Stretch marks on the butt and elsewhere are very common. If they make you uncomfortable with your appearance, there are a number of treatments to try.
Understand it’s unlikely the stretch marks will disappear completely, though.
Review your treatment options, including possible side effects, with your doctor before making a decision on which treatment to try.