Stretch marks are very common estimates suggest up to 90 percent of people have them. 11 Simple Ways To Use Castor Oil For Treating Stretch Marks. Ud-Din S, et al. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. They may be red, purple, or silver in appearance. Coconut oil and vitamin E can be used with capsules or creams and both will help to alleviate itchiness and improve the health of your skin. The following two tabs change content below. Vitamin A products can sometimes irritate the skin, so its best to follow instructions carefully if you try this ingredient. (2021). Pregnancy is a common cause of stretch marks. smj.journals.ekb.eg/article_198390_a2b138a796c222463f54be31e39c20ca.pdf, sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352647516300272, plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2020/plastic-surgery-statistics-full-report-2020.pdf, rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/pseudoxanthoma-elasticum-pxe/, aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear, How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks: 11 Ingredients to Try, Everything You Need to Know About Cocoa Butter, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, indented lines or streaks on your skin, which can vary in length and width, pink, purple, red, bluish, or dark brown streaks this color marks can vary, depending on your skin color, thinned, glossy lines in your skin that may appear, skin itching and irritation before stretch marks appear. Stretch marks generally result from the healing of damaged connective tissues. Stretch marks happen for two main reasons: Cortisone is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands. They may be red, purple, or silver in appearance. Rinse with warm water. This rash typically clears up within a week after giving birth, but anti-itch lotions, antihistamines, or even topical steroids can alleviate symptoms in the meantime. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Piercing Bump vs. Keloid: What Are the Differences? This will help prevent the tightness or dryness of your skin. They are usually slightly raised from the skin and may feel itchy. Advanced Hemorrhoid Pain & Protection Box, Maximum Strength Hemorrhoid Ointment To-Go, Numb-It-All: Over the Counter Lidocaine Cream. Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the skin in a way that at-home remedies cant. Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them, Stretch marks during pregnancy: a review of topical prevention, Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae, Therapeutic targets in the management of striae distensae: A systematic review. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Stick with your treatment until all signs and symptoms of itchy stretch marks have improved. "Limiting the size of a scar via hydrating during pregnancy from the inside and outside can help with how the skin deals with the wounds," says Dr. Sarina. 2015;172(3):606-615. doi:10.1111/bjd.13426. A high-quality stretch mark cream is specially formulated to nourish the skin as it recovers from stretch marks caused by rapid body change. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan and how to eat well.. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. Stretch marks aren't medically harmful. Stretch marks can only occur on some body parts like the breast, hips, butt, arms, and abdomen. Cocoa butter, shea butter, olive oil, vitamin E oil, and other moisturizers: These natural creams can make your skin feel softer, but it isnt clear if they help or prevent stretch marks. Common characteristics of those who have stretch marks: The above indicates how stretch mark formation is beyond our control. Stretch marks (striae) are indented streaks that appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks or other places on the body. Try not to scratch, because it makes you more prone to cuts and infections. Discount email can take up to 30 minutes to receive. PUPPP is an inflammatory skin condition, and if it develops on the stretch marks, it can add on to the itchiness and cause extreme discomfort. They can show up on many parts of your body: The doctor only has to look at your skin to diagnose them. As stretch marks heal, they can turn white. Common causes or high-risk times for stretch marks include: Perhaps the most effective treatment for stretch marks is time. And, look out for dry skin, as this can make your stretch marks itchier. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Quick weight gain (this affects both men and women). Childhood growth spurts during puberty. This makes them more noticeable. If you havent had much success with your attempts to minimize the appearance of your stretch marks at home, a dermatologist can offer more support and guidance on your options. Virgin coconut oil is widely used in traditional medicine for healing several skin issues. Your risk of experiencing stretch marks is higher if these marks run in your family. They may suggest anti-itch ointments and topical creams or lotions to keep itching at bay. Stretch marks occur when the skin is overstretched quickly. Stretch marks do not go away completely. You would need to pay for these treatments as they're not available on the NHS. Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of your skin that causes tearing at the dermis, the layer below the epidermis. Keep in mind that any skin care treatment can occasionally cause allergies or sensitivities. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. Dayan E, et al. If your skin is on the oily side, try jojoba oil instead this may help to cause less oil accumulation from your skin. Retinoids can make skin appear smoother and more youthful. Plastic surgery statistics report. In addition to the above-mentioned ingredients, you may also use almond and jojoba oils or moisturizing creams. Gasser, P., et al. Office on Womens Health. That said, stretch marks often run in families, and theres no surefire way to prevent stretch marks completely, even if you regularly use lotions or creams. Whether you want to know how to get rid of scars on your legs or other areas, heres what to, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Efficacy of a new topical nano-hyaluronic acid in humans. A Few Tips To Prevent Itchy Stretch Marks. Itchiness thats caused by PUPPP may benefit from a moisturizer as well as topical corticosteroids or antihistamines. It actually makes them easier to see., Tretinoin: Creams with tretinoin (Retin-A) contain retinoid, a compound related to Vitamin A. Retinoids increase collagen production. Because stretch marks are a type of scarring from damaged skin, aloes skin-repairing properties might help with stretch mark prevention or fading. It is also widely used in cosmetic formulations, especially in moisturizing lotions, for its skin moisturizing abilities. Stretch marks (striae) are areas of the skin that look like lines or stripes. While anyone who experiences weight fluctuations may get stretch marks, youre more likely to get them if you: Certain medical conditions not related to pregnancy may also lead to stretch marks. (2010). The needle penetrates the skin and releases radiofrequency into the channels, stimulating deeper layers of collagen, per 2019 research. (2017). All rights reserved. : Vergetures is a French term for stretch marks, specifically referring to long stretch marks that make the skin look like it was lashed with a whip. Retinoids can make skin appear smoother and more youthful. With stretch marks, the itching happens either because of either dermal tearing, dry skin, or both. Vitamin E oil boosts collagen production. Treatments for stretch marks may minimize their appearance. Why Do Stretch Marks Itch? Causes & Treatment For Skin - Refinery29 Its also possible that the itchiness is attributed to more than just pregnancy-related stretch marks. If youve been asking yourself, why do my stretch marks itch youre not alone. PUPPP stands for Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. Some pregnant women develop a rash called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP). However, if you want to treat the stretch marks so that they can become less noticeable and even disappear youll want to consider using Dermaclara silicone patches. However, if you want to treat the stretch marks so that they can become less noticeable and even disappear youll want to consider using, Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. Causes of stretch mark itch Stretch marks are caused by the. Yes! Farahnik B, et al. This continual tugging and stretching can cause stretch marks. Click here for additional information. As your skin heals it becomes itchy. Stretch marks, or scars that happen when your skin rapidly stretches or shrinks, typically show up as bands of lines running across your skin. You develop stretch marks when your skin stretches beyond its capacity, causing tears in the dermis (the second layer of skin right below the epidermis). Itchy Stretch Marks: Causes, Treatment, & Prevention - Stylecraze Research published in 2015 suggests that up to 90 percent of pregnant people will develop stretch marks. You will likely be treated by a doctor a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon, or plastic surgeon or a licensed professional, depending on what state youre located in, the procedure, and the possible risks. Leah Ansell, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and an assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University. Stretch marks are when your skin starts to stretch and begins tearing at the dermis due to weight gain in a short amount of time. See additional information. Stretch Marks: Common Causes and How To Get Rid of Them - WebMD They will also help to treat postpartum itching, itchy after birth stretch marks, and more. The key is to properly identify the stretch marks and then alleviate the itch. An itchy belly does not necessarily signify stretch marks. Aloe vera has a long history as a natural skin treatment. Theyre used in many over-the-counter (OTC) topical cosmetic creams. Using a handheld wand, a professional applies an abrasive substance to your skin to gently scrub away dead skin cells. So what do we do to make stretch marks seen but not felt? By Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH The cause of your stretch marks can determine how quickly they fade. So it makes sense that laser therapy could potentially improve the look of stretch marks. It is important to note that many products claim to remove stretch marks without any evidence. Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy is one irritating skin condition women may experience while pregnant. Al-shandawely AA, et al. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. The reason for your itchy stretch marks during pregnancy, itchy stretch marks after pregnancy, or stretch marks itching weight loss its because your skin is stretching and becoming thinner, and softer and its less supported than it once was. Here are some solutions for how to treat and calm itchy stretch marks. At the same time, it may reduce the appearance of stretch marks (Doctor Butlers stretch mark cream does too!). If you can avoid rapid weight gain, this will lower your risk of stretch marks. As new stretch marks form, they are often pink, red, or purple in color and its these fresh stretch marks that are often prone to itchiness. Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH, is a freelance health writer with over a decade of experience working as a registered nurse in a variety of clinical settings. If youve taken either oral or topical steroids for a long time, high cortisol levels in your body might be to blame. For instance, stretch marks from pregnancy tend to fade around 6 months after delivery. : These marks are also stripe-like. As the skin heals, stretch marks may appear. Stretch. Ud-Din S, McGeorge D, Bayat A. Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. for treatment. You may layer both creams and moisturizers for intense hydration. In some cases, the skin around stretch marks also becomes dry, resulting in itchiness. In general, clinical procedures are more effective than home remedies for stretch marks. When you have itchy bumps on stretch marks or red bumps on stretch marks not pregnant or pregnant the key to getting the itch under control is to treat the itch sooner than later. The best way to reduce your chance of getting them is by maintaining a healthy weight. An inherited or genetic disorder that affects the connective tissue in many parts of the body (heart, bones, eyes, and blood vessels). Dermatologists do not recommend tanning because it raises the risk of skin cancer. Karia UK, et al. Apply ice or use cold (refrigerated) calamine lotion to relieve itching. Depending on what kind of laser is used, treatment could have the potential to increase collagen production and help stretch marks fade to blend in with the surrounding skin, 2017 research suggests. Chouk, Chourouk, and Noureddine Litaiem. Centella helps reduce inflammation and promote collagen production. DOI: pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stretch-marks/symptoms-causes/syc-20351139, dermnetnz.org/topics/stretch-marks-striae/, kidshealth.org/en/teens/stretch-marks.html, aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/skin-care/stretch-marks, Everything You Need to Know About Stretch Marks, What Causes a Melasma Mustache and How to Treat It, experience rapid muscle growth while weight training, have a history of rapid weight gain or loss, have a history of systemic or topical corticosteroid use, such as regularly using topical hydrocortisone on your skin, as these can stretch out the skin and make it thinner. Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Remember, medical treatment wont completely get rid of stretch marks, either but approaches recommended by a dermatologist will most likely yield better results. They're used in many. Scratching the itching area may make the stretch marks worse. Research shows that almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E do not affect the appearance of stretch marks. The use of energy devices in the treatment of striae: A systematic literature review. Stretch Mark Tattoos: Can They Cover The Marks Effectively? Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. Stretch marks during pregnancy: A review of topical prevention. Stretch marks, also called striae, happen when your skin changes shape rapidly due to growth or weight gain. With stretch marks, the itching happens either because of either dermal tearing, dry skin, or both. Its important to note that even though they are common, stretch marks bother many people. Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation and Acne, The 6 Best Scar Creams of 2023 to Heal and Repair Your Skin. Theyll typically also review your medical history, since certain health conditions can contribute to stretch marks. However, there are some effective ways to control the itchiness caused by stretch marks. If you are losing weight stomach itching can mean that fresh stretch marks are forming and youll want to start treating your skin to aid in prevention. However, one small study suggests that cocoa butter can improve skin elasticity (3). Up to 90% of pregnant people experience stretch marks. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. And as a result of this, it lacks the support of nerve effectors which are more sensitive and prone to itching. Last medically reviewed on February 4, 2022. Research tells us there is no secret cure-all ingredient for stretch marks at least not yet. This is similar to when you have a cut and starts to become itchy as it forms a scab which is a sign that it is healing. You may try massaging the area with cocoa butter to keep the skin moisturized and prevent itching. Imhof L, et al. We avoid using tertiary references. Coconut oil and vitamin E capsules and creams may also help alleviate itchiness. Anyone can end up with stretch marks, but some factors make this development more likely. Waking Up With Scratches On Your Skin? This is particularly beneficial for those who are naturally prone to stretch marks. Back stretch marks often appear from rapid growth or sudden weight gain. This property may also help to fade the stretch marks. It doesnt matter if its stretch marks on the butt or belly it can be very annoying. Stretch, Stretch marks look like indented streaks in your skin. It is crucial to keep your skin moisturized. Red stretch marks, or striae rubrae, are breaks or lesions that happen when a person's skin stretches rapidly to keep up with underlying growth. Theyre often used to treat wrinkles. (2016). It might seem impossible but do your best not to scratch and treat the stretch marks and stretch mark bump with some of the following home remedies to stop the itch. When this happens, the skin goes through a rapid change in collagen and elastin, the proteins that make up the skin. With ingredients such as vitamin E, chamomile, rosemary . But the researchers cautioned that more evidence is still needed. Maternity can form. Plant-based oils such as olive, almond, or coconut oil work wonders on irritated skin. Can It Be Treated? Collagen and elastin play an important role in the health of your skin. There is no perfect home remedy, but topical treatments can help with hydration and can promote your skins healing processes. Stretch marks arent harmful to your health. (1996). These lines are the remnants of significant body changes that made the skin stretch rapidly. Centella asiatica: This herbal oil boosts cells in your body that make collagen and build up skin tissue. StatPearls Publishing, 2019. Keen, Mohammad Abid, and Iffat Hassan. 2017;77(3):559-568.e18. Here are some more tips that may help reduce itching on your stretch marks. These grooves or lines in your skin arent harmful to your health, but they arent great to look at, either. Can a Laser Really Get Rid of My Stretch Marks? Like any type of scar, stretch marks naturally fade over time. (2017). Youll find many creams, salves, oils, and other skin ointments that claim to either prevent or treat them. Management of stretch marks (with a focus on striae rubrae). Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery 10.3 (2017): 124. Because there are known risks to using retinoids during pregnancy, you should not use them if you are: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful ingredient for moisturizing and skin healing. Soleymani T, et al. Stretch marks also become more common in certain circumstances: Your chances of developing stretch marks increase if you: The color and appearance of stretch marks can depend on the color of your skin, but they tend to be more noticeable if you have darker skin. Use a moisturizer. Mix the oil into the sugar, a little at a time. Its often used in creams, lotions, and serums. More research is needed to identify all its effects on stretch marks. Tea Tree Oil For Psoriasis: Benefits, Uses, And More. Keeping the area moisturized while stretch marks are developing is important. During this time, the stretch marks or the skin around them may itch. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. can lead to a blister in stretch marks and this will ultimately lead to cuts that could lead to an infection. Many products contain retinol, which is unsafe for your baby. How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks: 11 Treatment Options - Healthline But some home remedies can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks and could help them fade more quickly. If youve been scratching stretch marks more than likely youve been wondering why they are so itchy. Varma, Sandeep R., et al. Over this time, he has had great success integrating patient care from both an efficiency standpoint and as a practical approach to holistic and preventative medicine. Its possible to prevent stretch marks, but theres no guarantee. That said, its possible that the action of gently massaging an oil onto your skin could prevent stretch marks, 2015 research suggests. Because these bumps are very itchy, they will irritate stretch-marked skin. Research shows that home remedies, including almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E, do not affect stretch marks. They may be red, purple, or silver in appearance. As it heals, stretch marks form. If you are losing weight stomach itching can mean that fresh stretch marks are forming and youll want to start treating your skin to aid in prevention. Research on microdermabrasion for stretch marks is limited, but a 2017 research review suggests it may reduce the severity of the marks. 3. This is harmless to both you and your baby, however, it can cause excessive itching. At the end of the day, its worth remembering that theyre natural, common, and not harmful to your health. Why Are Stretch Marks Itchy? | Demaclara These appear with puberty or weight gain. Unlike at-home tools, in-office microneedling goes deeper into your skin to target the skins healing function more effectively and more safely, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Korgavkar K, et al. Stretch marks tend to fade over time but will not disappear completely. (2018). This will also help to decrease the itchiness and keep it at bay if youre consistently putting it on your skin. Stretch marks form when the skin is stretched very quickly. Scratching gets old after a while, and it only makes it feel better for a short time. Striae distensae treatment review and update. Bitter almond oil:One study showed that women who massaged bitter almond oil into the skin on their bellies during pregnancy had fewer stretch marks than others who just used oil without massage. If they believe a health condition might be causing your stretch marks, they might recommend blood, urine, or imaging tests to help find the underlying cause. Stretch marks fade with time; however, treatment may make them less noticeable more quickly. Theres not a lot of evidence to promote the use of coconut oil for stretch marks. Stretch marks dont typically go away, but their appearance may lessen over time. 10 Best Stretch Mark Creams for Pregnancy in 2023 - Healthline But what it really all boils down to is your skin health. Stretch marks look like lines or streaks across the skin. 2011 - 2023 IncNut Stylecraze Private Limited. A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. Cosmetic surgery, like a tummy tuck, may remove skin with stretch marks. "Because a stretch mark is thin, it feels softer, and therefore . Like other scars, they can be permanent, but they may change and fade over time. You may also consult a dermatologist. Teplicki E, et al. Cut an aloe vera leaf and extract the pulp. See additional information. . Rub the fresh aloe vera gel on your skin or use it as a mask. No matter which home remedy you try, its important to use it as early and often as possible for the best results. Soon reddish or purplish slightly swollen lines develop perpendicular to the direction of skin tension (striae rubrae). However, keeping the skin supple may be helpful . This treatment may improve your stretch marks a little, but wont completely get rid of them. Other diseases such as autoimmune disorders increase the chances of stretch mark development. (2015). These rippled, streaky lines in your skin come in different colors. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6460431/, jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(17)30300-6/fulltext, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3970829/, archderm.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=557725, jcasonline.com/article.asp?issn=0974-2077;year=2016;volume=9;issue=2;spage=101;epage=105;aulast=Karia;type=3, idoj.in/article.asp?issn=2229-5178;year=2019;volume=10;issue=4;spage=380;epage=395;aulast=Lokhande#ref14, fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/microneedling-devices-getting-point-benefits-risks-and-safety, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6122508/, kidshealth.org/en/teens/stretch-marks.html, hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/wounds/article/effects-aloe-vera-wound-healing-cell-proliferation-migration-and-viability, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jdv.13223, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC5782435/, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6791161/, Everything You Need to Know About Cocoa Butter, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 19 Parenting Hacks for the Busy Working Parent. Active stretch marks, which are often red, tend to itch more because the skin in that area is thinner. Striae distensae in adolescents: A mini review. To date, though, little evidence supports the effectiveness of these products. When the stretch marks are fresh and developing, they appear red, purple, or pinkish (depending on your skin tone). Topical tretinoin (retinoic acid) improves early stretch marks. This includes home remedies and natural approaches. Here are simple tips to reduce the appearance of scars. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. With patches that come in a variety of sizes and shapes, youll have no trouble covering your entire pregnant belly or just patches around your sides or belly button. Pregnancy may cause rapid weight gain in some women, especially in the hip, thigh, and abdominal areas. All rights reserved. Stretch marks often appear on the breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and low back. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Oil massages during pregnancy not only keep the skin healthy and fade stretch marks but also help relieve pregnancy-related stress and anxiety. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Is It Possible To Get Rid Of Them? : Stretch mark cream is very helpful in getting ahead of a stretch mark problem as it promotes elasticity and resilience. Microneedling is a minimally invasive way to treat the texture of stretch marks, even older ones, and it may help to even out skin tone. : These vertically-oriented and stripe-like marks are exclusive to pregnancy. This factor also contributes to itchy skin. Lokhande AJ, et al. Stretch marks itching pregnancy treatments can also include ensuring that you get an adequate amount of water to remain hydrated for both your growing baby and skin. This tearing allows whats in the layer below the dermis to fill in and cause stretch marks. $12.16 $14.99. Usually, you may develop stretch marks during the second trimester. This will also help to decrease the itchiness and keep it at bay if youre consistently putting it on your skin. There are many different reasons why your stretch marks are itchy. This usually occurs when you gain weight in a short amount of time, and your skin has to compensate for the rapid growth. It can help maintain your skins protective barrier. They commonly appear during or after pregnancy, or after other sudden or rapid changes in your weight. They usually arent a sign that anything is wrong with your health.