Stretch marks occur when the elastic fibers of the dermis undergo a breakdown due to several changes affecting the body. Although they occur predominantly on the thighs, arms and abdomen, it is possible that they also appear in other parts of the body affected by a certain change, including the back. Treating stretch marks on this area isn't all that different. To get rid of them, you can try moisturizers, lasers, or microdermabrasion. In any case, most stretch marks fade naturally, the important thing is to have a little patience.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Home Remedies
Step 1. Use a rich, full-bodied moisturizer
It is one of the most recommended and used home treatments to combat stretch marks. Ask a trusted person or your partner to help you with the application, focusing on the affected area. If that's not possible, buy a long-handled cream applicator from a beauty shop or a stocked supermarket.
- Although the effectiveness of moisturizers is backed up by little scientific evidence, many people claim to have seen improvements within a few weeks or months.
- People with stretch marks on their backs claim to have seen particularly good results with the help of thick moisturizers, such as body butters containing ingredients such as collagen, shea or cocoa butter.
- Moisturizers are considered to be most effective for treating recent stretch marks, which are bright red or purplish in color.
Step 2. Try tretinoin treatment, usually used for stretch marks and acne scars
In general, tretinoin creams are prescribed by a dermatologist. Make an appointment with your doctor and explain that you are interested in trying this treatment.
- Tretinoin is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- It is generally applied topically with the hands or a special brush.
- Low-dose retinoid creams are available over the counter at the pharmacy. However, with a less concentrated formulation, the effectiveness suffers.
Step 3. Try to be patient
One of the most effective home remedies to treat stretch marks? Let them go away on their own. To speed up the process, apply a protector before going out in the sun and be patient.
Some stretch marks don't go away entirely, but they can fade substantially over the course of months or years
Method 2 of 3: Professional Treatments
Step 1. Consider the laser
To perform this treatment, you must contact a specialist, such as a cosmetic surgeon or a dermatologist. There are several types of phototherapy to eliminate stretch marks:
- Pulsed light is an almost painless treatment that is particularly effective in the early stages, when the stretch marks are still bright red or purplish.
- The fractional laser is used to treat faded or white stretch marks. It is often more painful, as it causes skin micro-lesions (controlled and intentional).
- Phototherapy can be expensive and it is usually necessary to do more than one session to see good results.
Step 2. Consider microdermabrasion
According to some studies, it is very effective for treating stretch marks. It is possible to perform it in a beauty center, but for large areas such as the back it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.
One session is not enough to observe noteworthy improvements. Patients who had good results underwent treatment at least once a week over the course of several weeks or months
Step 3. Talk to a homeopath
The success of alternative medicine has so far been limitedly quantified in the treatment of stretch marks and is not supported by much scientific evidence. In any case, trying doesn't hurt. Talk to a specialist to consider natural or home remedies and come up with a plan.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before trying an alternative treatment
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Stretch Marks
Step 1. Watch for sudden changes
Stretch marks that occur on areas such as the back are particularly common among those who acquire fat or muscle mass. If you intend to do so, proceed in a controlled manner over several months, without haste.
If you intend to develop muscle mass, you should work with an instructor to help you make a targeted path
Step 2. Keep your skin hydrated
Using a cream or oil regularly will help keep it hydrated and promote tissue regeneration. While this process does not prevent stretch marks from forming, it can help reduce the time it takes for them to fade, making you feel better.
Apply the moisturizer every morning and before going to bed, using a special brush to reach all parts of the back
Step 3. Follow a healthy lifestyle
Having a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help you keep the sudden changes in the body under control and provide the body with all the nutrients it needs to keep skin healthy. Try to eat a diet rich in "good" proteins and fats, with limited amounts of carbohydrates, saturated and trans fats.
