Bad News About Stretch Marks

No matter how many creams you rub on your belly, you can never get rid of stretch marks permanently. That's the latest news. And the news is not encouraging.

Today's New York Times featured a story about stretch marks and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (photo by Getty Images)

“There’s not much you can do about these, other than monitor your weight gain,” said Dr. Laura Riley, a maternal fetal medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of “You and Your Baby” (2006). “Various creams and lotions are sold to prevent stretch marks from developing or getting worse, but the jury is out on whether they work.”

But the American Pregnancy Association is saying something else. The APA suggests that women CAN reduce the probability of stretch marks. Note the key word here, 'probability.'

Stretch marks occur when skin loses its elasticity, usually from rapid weight gain — a common occurrence, when a woman is pregant. It's estimated that 85-90% of pregnant women get them at some point during their pregnancy. 'Striae gravidarum'(medical lingo for stretch marks) are caused by tearing in the skin and connective tissue, due to the stretching of the fat tissue. Over time, stretch marks turn almost a silvery color in comparison to one's normal skintone.

So what's a gal to do?

Dr. Amy Derick, a dermatologist in Barrington, Illinois, says you should try and diminish their appearance. And act sooner, than later.

“There’s really not any data regarding creams,” she told the NY Times. “But you can do laser treatments or Retin-A after the fact, especially early on when the lines are red and purple.” Studies have found that topical tretinoin can lighten stretch marks as well as reduce their size. And she is certainly not opposed to pregnant women massaging their bellies with moisturizing oils and creams. “It makes them feel like they’re being pro-active, and if it feels good, why not?” she said. “It can’t hurt.”

By the way, Retin-A should NEVER be used during one's pregnancy and during breast-feeding. Research is still not clear on how Retin-A medication might affect the fetus or nursing baby. Please check with your doctor.

I still hear from women who have had good success battling their stretch marks, by attacking them early on. Here are two popular creams to rub on your belly, to help lighten, smoothe, and fade stretch marks.

StriVectin-SD Intensive Repair ($135, 6 oz.)
Avon Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark Smoother (new product. $25, 5 oz.).