Anyone know if there is anything I can do about them that will actually work? I HATE them- I look like a friggin burn victim or something. It looks like the skin on Freddy Kruger's face! GRRRR!!! I just want my skin back!
2006-12-31 16:01:17 · 16 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Pregnancy
I just want to tell everyone thank you for your answers, I really appreciate it. Also, who the hell went down the list and gave almost everyone a thumb down? That wasn't me. AND Michael M, you are a disgusting human being.
2007-01-01 06:54:48 · update #1
Moisturisers and vitamin creams
If caught in the early stages, stretch marks can be minimised with over-the-counter moisturising creams. Vitamin E oil, which assists in general skin healing and condition, can reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Vitamin A is also a good emollient, but it's not as effective as prescription Tretinoin, or Retin-A, which attaches itself to receptors on the skin cells and helps exfoliate the skin and form healthy new cells. Though these creams are effective in moisturising the outer skin layer, they can't always penetrate deep into the dermis where stretch marks occur. They also can't completely change a pre-existing skin condition, which is why they work best on stretch marks that are just forming.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
AHAs are derived from certain plants, many of which are fruits, and so are sometimes called 'fruit acids'. AHA creams are said to help with stretch marks because they moisturise the outer layer of skin, making it more pliable. These products increase cell regeneration by 'burning off' the outer layer of skin cells. By removing the top layer of cells, healthier ones rise to the surface, improving skin texture and colour, and allowing moisturisers to be absorbed so the skin remains supple. While penetrating the skin's surface, the water-binding properties of AHAs increase the skin's flexibility and assist in stretch mark reduction. Though your skin may feel dry and flaky at first from the dead cells being sloughed away, after a few weeks, AHAs may make your skin feel and appear smoother - and visibly reduce stretch marks. If you stop using AHAs, the skin will return to its normal state since cell regeneration is no longer taking place.
Prescription treatments
Tretinoin, or Retin-A, helps to loosen the keratin in the outer layer of skin and remove dead cells. Although derived from vitamin A, Tretinoin cream is much more effective than the naturally occurring vitamin because it thins the outer layer of skin in order to penetrate the dermis where stretch marks occur, and it increases collagen production. The result is a 'plumping up effect', which helps improve the appearance and texture of skin, and can diminish the appearance of stretch marks. Your doctor will advise you on the correct amount to use, but be aware that stronger dosages, although more effective, may cause stinging, swelling and redness, and potentially a sensitivity to sunlight. Skin thickening is another possible side effect of using this kind of cream, as collagen production is increased. Tretinoin is most effective in stretch mark treatment when used early.
Tretinoin is not recommended for use in pregnancy or while nursing. Also, those taking Retin-A are advised not to take any Vitamin A supplements at the same time, as this can increase adverse effects.
2006-12-31 16:06:01 · answer #1 · answered by Frances 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
I used a lotion from Aveda and it seemed to help, but I'm pretty sure that no matter what you do(even if you do nothing), they will fade. They will never go away just like the fact that you gave birth to a baby will never go away.
I've also heard that mixing emu oil with fresh aloe vera sap will help most skin ailments...but still, stretch marks don't go away.
2007-01-01 00:11:26 · answer #2 · answered by mlemt76 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
There is really nothing you can do, they will fade some. You just need to change your attitude about them - face them as your Red Badge of Courage - from carrying your baby, and you becoming a mom. Small price to pay....
2007-01-01 07:18:27 · answer #3 · answered by Lydia 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I agree with what charleygirl said. I am sorry you feel so bad about your stretch marks, but you have a beautiful baby to show for it, right? Think of them as war trophies or something if you have to. They will fade in time, and in the meantime, enjoy your child. Happy New Year to you!
2007-01-01 00:16:18 · answer #4 · answered by mom of 2 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Vitamin E oil works wonders.
2007-01-01 02:44:27 · answer #5 · answered by lastonealive@sbcglobal.net 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i know how you feel. i have the same thing on mine. so far, all i've been told is to use cocoa butter or a skin firming lotion. and eventually they do fade away, and may be to the point that you wont notice them anymore
2007-01-01 00:04:54 · answer #6 · answered by veitedl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately, unless you are one of those women that are genetically blessed or just plain lucky, you are gonna get them and unfortunately there is no procedure in place to get rid of them. The best thing is to just change the way you view them. They are the scars that you have to live with for the precious gift that you received in your child. It'll be alright! Take care!
2007-01-01 00:06:17 · answer #7 · answered by Charleygirl 2 · 3⤊ 1⤋
I have them too! Yuck. Although I never tried it, I've heard about stuff called Strivectin. They sell it at Nordstrom and even Costco. It is very expensive, but they say it really works.
2007-01-01 00:27:41 · answer #8 · answered by Livvy Wiggle 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Nat, this is part and parcel of having kids, they might fade a little, but wouldn't bother with any expensive lotions, your stuck with them I'm afraid, just except them, learn to live and be proud of them,
2007-01-01 00:09:32 · answer #9 · answered by valda54 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
My friend used cocoa-butter on her stretchmarks and swore it helped diminish them. She did rub it on morning and night, so maybe it did work...
2007-01-01 00:06:43 · answer #10 · answered by Rita 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋