Stretch marks can happen any time that you gain weight or grow quickly. They occur because the demands on the skin's elasticity are more than the supporting structure can withstand. Microscopic bleeding occurs as the middle and outer layers of the skin are strained. The result is long, thin marks that have a different appearance from the surrounding skin. Stretch marks generally are red, pink or purple for several weeks or even months after they occur. They eventually fade to a paler color than the surrounding skin. Removing stretch marks is difficult but not impossible.

While They're Still Pink

The easiest time to remove stretch marks is while they are still new, before the pink or red color fades. During this phase, a prescription cream containing tretinoin can help heal stretch marks. Tretinoin is a concentrated derivative of vitamin A that helps rebuild collagen, the supporting structure under your skin. Retin-A and Renova are the most common brands of this prescription cream. Do not, however, use creams containing tretinoin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Another way to repair new stretch marks is to use pulsed dye laser therapy. This treatment triggers the growth of collagen and elastin in the middle layers of your skin, which can improve the appearance of stretch marks by helping the stretched skin to better match surrounding skin.

After They Turn White

Once stretch marks have turned white, they become more difficult to repair. Over time, some stretch marks will fade to the point of being barely noticeable. For those that don't, you can make an appointment for pulsed dye laser therapy. It is most effective on recent stretch marks but may also help with the appearance of older marks. If you have older stretch marks, you may find more success with microdermabrasion or excimer laser treatments. Microdermabrasion uses crystals to blast away dead skin cells and refine the skin's surface. In so doing, it stimulates new skin cell growth that can reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Excimer laser treatment stimulates melanin production, or pigmentation, to the faded skin of stretch marks, helping them to better match surrounding skin and making them less noticeable. For the best results, visit a dermatologist or medical spa for pulsed dye laser therapy, microdermabrasion and excimer laser treatments.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Stretch Marks

All About Stretch Marks