Red vs. white stretch marks
Stretch marks are lines or streaks made on the skin due to growth or weight gain.
In general, stretch marks start as red marks and gradually become whiter. The color difference indicates how old the stretch marks are. Although they may never go away completely, some treatments can help improve their appearance. Also, in some cases, stretch marks fade on their own.
New stretch marks (red) are easier to treat as blood vessels are still under the skin.
For their part, older stretch marks (white) are more challenging to treat as the blood vessels thin, making collagen production difficult.
While they are more challenging to treat than white stretch marks, some treatments can help improve their appearance.
Here are some treatments that can help you improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Removing white stretch marks
1. Exfoliate
A good option for treating white stretch marks is to exfoliate regularly, which helps remove dead skin.
Exfoliation, along with other treatments, can achieve very effective results. This is so because removing dead skin from stretch marks allows other skin treatments to penetrate deeper and work more efficiently.
2. Topical Treatments
Topical creams or ointments are inexpensive options to improve the appearance of white stretch marks.
Some of these topical treatments are over the counter, while a physician must prescribe others.
Regular application of creams and ointments to stretch marks can improve their appearance but not remove them altogether.
It is essential to consult your doctor before using topical treatments as they can cause allergies.
3. Microdermabrasion
Another option to improve the appearance of stretch marks is microdermabrasion. This painless treatment works on the outer layer of the skin and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers.
Through this procedure, tiny exfoliating crystals are placed on the affected areas, or you can also rub the area with a unique pointed wand.
Then, with a wand-like device, the crystals are gently removed, which helps remove the dead skin.
To obtain effective results, you must repeat this procedure periodically.
Keep in mind that the skin may be tight, red, and dry after microdermabrasion. This is normal, and the skin will return to its appearance after 24 hours.
This procedure is very effective, although it does not altogether remove stretch marks. In addition, the composition of your stretch marks impacts the final results.
4. Microneedling
For its part, micro-needling works on the dermis, that is, the middle layer of the skin (that’s where the stretch marks are).
This procedure consists of sticking tiny needles into the skin to stimulate collagen production.
A more significant amount of collagen helps to regenerate the skin and, in this way, improves the appearance of stretch marks.
Evidence has shown that micro-needling is very effective in reducing stretch marks.
5. Laser Therapy
Another effective option is laser therapy.
Through this procedure, the laser penetrates the skin and stimulates its regeneration. This helps the tissues around the stretch marks heal faster.
In addition, laser therapy increases melanin production in the affected areas, which activates the pigment of the skin cells. This helps stretch marks turn your natural skin color.
Although it is very effective, laser therapy requires more than one session to obtain results.
Consult your dermatologist about the best option for laser therapy according to your skin type.
6. Cosmetic Surgery
If you tried the previous methods, and they did not work, there is also the option of cosmetic surgery.
It is an expensive but effective procedure. Also, it can remove stretch marks altogether.
However, it is necessary to bear in mind that it is a surgery and, for that reason, it can leave scars.
One option may be a tummy tuck. It is a cosmetic surgery that removes stretch marks and the excess skin and fat that may be on your abdomen.
This surgery is used to give the belly a firmer and flatter appearance.
Before undergoing cosmetic surgery, consult a specialist if this is the correct option for the health of your body.
Outlook
Stretch marks are very common skin lines.
Older stretch marks are white and are more difficult to remove than red stretch marks.
However, some options can help you improve the appearance of your stretch marks.
Before starting any treatment, you should remember that stretch marks may not disappear completely.
Consult a dermatologist, so they can help you choose the best treatment for your skin.
