Written By: Kriti Saraswat | Updated : April 14, 2016 3:07 PM IST
Almost everyone has stretch marks, some of which are prominent that can hinder your appearance. But there are several creams and oils in the market that promise to erase out these marks. Do these products really work? We ask celeb cosmetic physician Dr Rashmi Shetty.
The truth about stretch mark creams
Says Dr Shetty that these creams do work to an extent but don t expect magical results. They will lighten the existing ones a bit, but you cannot really get rid of them. If you feel using these creams can prevent stretch marks (post pregnancy) then you are wrong. What these creams or oils do is lubricate and hydrate your skin intensely, prevent it from getting dry and itchy, and cause less damage when it stretches. The reason these creams work is because they have ingredients like vitamin E, essential oils that strengthen your skin, boost collagen and hydrate it well. Some creams also help exfoliate the top layer of the skin to keep dead skin away.
If you have dark coloured stretch marks such as red or purple, using these creams will help lighten them so that they aren t very prominent. But they cannot really erase them completely. Did you know these 6 causes of stretch marks?
Is using a moisturiser enough?
If you are only looking at preventive measures, a moisturising cream works as it will hydrate your skin but if you have existing stretch marks, it is best to use a cream recommended for it. I recommend using Bio Oil for pregnant women who want to prevent stretch marks. But remember, no cream offers complete protection against them.prevent stretch marks. But remember, no cream offers complete protection against them.
Any natural ways to prevent and lighten stretch marks?
All these remedies can be used to prevent and lighten stretch marks. Here are some more natural ways to get rid of stretch marks.
How long do creams and remedies take to show results?
They take at least three to four months to show results. And you need to religiously apply them twice a day, every day. If you want to see better results, opt for invasive radiofrequency or microneedling treatments.
Image source: Shutterstock
Disclaimer: TheHealthSite does not endorse any brands and is not responsible for its efficacy.
For more articles on skincare, visit our skincare section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. For health related Q&A, click here!
