Although white stretch marks are permanent and cannot be completely removed, some treatments can help improve their appearance.
White stretch marks represent a more advanced stage in the process of stretch mark formation, as they indicate a more complete healing of the skin.
What are white stretch marks?
White stretch marks appear when they no longer have blood supply. They differ from red striae because they tend to fade to a lighter shade, becoming white striae. They are scar-shaped, with some depth at the ends and damage in the deeper layers.
Treatments against white stretch marks
Prevention is often considered the most effective strategy for treating white stretch marks. Although there is no guarantee that their formation can be completely prevented, keeping the skin hydrated, avoiding significant weight fluctuations, following a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and staying physically active can help reduce the risk of developing stretch marks or at least minimize their appearance.
Indeed, although prevention is important, it is sometimes complicated and may not seem to work. For example, during pregnancy, a time when it is common for women to apply specific creams and oils to those parts of their bodies most prone to stretch marks as a preventive measure.
Treatment for white stretch marks may vary compared to the treatment of other forms of stretch marks, such as red or purple stretch marks. We can highlight the following treatments:
- Laser: Laser procedures are used to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of the skin. They stimulate collagen production by emitting light energy that penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. The additional collagen in the skin can help to plump and smooth the appearance of white stretch marks.
- Microdermabrasion and chemical peels: these treatments can help exfoliate the surface layer of skin and improve the appearance of white stretch marks. However, efficacy may vary and multiple sessions are needed.
- Transdermal electroporation: with this treatment we can use substances such as vitamins, minerals or hyaluronic acid directly on the skin to improve its appearance. Thus, it is possible to introduce active ingredients such as glycolic acid, retinoids, vitamin C or vitamin E into the skin, which can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Very important, as we have already mentioned, no treatment can completely eliminate white stretch marks, as they are scars on the skin. But they will help minimize their appearance and make them less visible.
Cosmetic products for white stretch marks
For prevention, as well as during and after treatment, we can use some topical products to help improve the appearance of white stretch marks. These are products composed of ingredients designed to improve skin elasticity, stimulate collagen production and aid in cell regeneration. These products contain ingredients such as:
- Glycolic acid: this alpha hydroxy acid exfoliates the top layer of the skin, promoting cell renewal and helping to improve skin texture.
- Retinoids: are derivatives of vitamin A and can help stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity.
- Vitamin C: this antioxidant can aid in the production of collagen and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- Vitamin E: an antioxidant that can help improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of scars.
- Natural oils: these oils (almond oil, coconut oil, rosehip oil) can provide hydration to the skin, improving its elasticity and smoothing the appearance of stretch marks.
- Centella asiatica: this plant may have skin regenerating properties and help in healing.
