Best Stretch Mark Treatments by Dermatologists – Stretch… Away!

By Dr. Teo Wan Lin, Consultant Dermatologist at TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre

What are stretch marks? What do they look like?

A stretch mark, also known as “striae” look like streaks of skin over areas like the back, the thighs and arms. They are caused by tissue under your skin tearing from rapid growth or over-stretching. They can have different colours, from white to brown to purple.

What causes them?

Stretch marks are very common, especially over areas of the body where the skin is subjected to continuous and progressive stretching. They are generally harmless but can be cosmetically disfiguring for some people, and rarely is due to medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (abdominal obesity due to prolonged exposure to cortisol) and Marfan syndrome (a genetic disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue). These marks can also occur from prolonged use of oral or topical steroids.

Who gets them?

Common areas include the abdomen and breast in pregnant women, as well as teenagers undergoing growth spurts (thighs, buttocks, breasts). Over the shoulders in body-builders, in obese or overweight people.

What is an early sign of the stretch mark developing?

An early sign is when an area of skin becomes itchy, flattened and thinned out with a pink colour, followed by purplish swollen lines which may lighten. They may be several centimeters long and 1–10 mm wide.

Can I get rid of stretch marks?

It is important, that, if in doubt, get your stretch marks reviewed by your dermatologist, as there are a few medical conditions which may mimic these marks.  There are a few creams with active ingredients that help in reducing stretch marks. An over-the-counter example is the Radiance Fluide Hydrating Emulsion, which contains potent oligopeptides that encourages the synthesis of collagen in skin to tighten and lift such marks. In addition, there are also specific treatments which should only be performed by a qualified dermatologist to reduce the appearance of these marks.

© 2017 Dr. Teo Wan Lin. All rights reserved.

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Meet with Dr. Teo Wan Lin, consultant dermatologist at TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre for a thorough consultation and a full skin examination to treat any problems regarding stretch marks. 

To book an appointment with Dr. Teo, call us at +65 6355 0522, or email appt@twlskin.com. Alternatively, you may fill up our contact form here.