by Ellen Parker
Cures range from at-home recipes to creams sold in stores to laser treatments at dermatologist's offices, with the prices distinctly varying from the two ends of the spectrum. Whether the stretch marks occur from pregnancy, weight loss or weight gain or if the scar was leftover from a childhood accident or a recent surgery, many solutions are offered to reduce and remove these blemishes.
First and foremost, it is important to break down the important natural ingredients that help aid in healing stretch marks and scars. Aloe Vera, vitamin E and oils are three natural ingredients that have been proven to help. An important element along with these components is maintaining a balanced diet. By hydrating the body with water and abstaining from processed foods, the growth of healthy skin is promoted through a natural healing process.
When deciding upon a cream for stretch marks or scars, there are endless options available, but none will be effective in decreasing and eliminating the marks if it is not applied two to three times daily for four to six weeks. Massaging the cream into the stretch marks and scars is also encouraged because it improves the elasticity of the skin and breaks down the scar tissue.
If creams and home remedies do not suffice, dermatologists in the Fort Worth area can also offer non-surgical laser solutions that are not invasive. The Center for Skin & Cosmetic Dermatology (mytotalskincare.com) and the Dermatology and Laser Center of Fort Worth (skinlasercare.com) provide laser solutions for both stretch mark and scar removal, which only take 30-40 minutes, requiring three to five treatments.
In the end, the removal of stretch marks and scars does not require an endless budget, but rather solutions that can be tailored to each person. Whether you want to go all natural with an at-home recipe, purchase a cream or have a procedure done by a professional, unsightly stretch marks and scars can be reduced and eliminated.
Suggested Creams:
Revitol ($29.95), which contains all natural ingredients, such as Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamin E and Vitamin A.
Elastin3 ($53.75) is another option that is typically used during pregnancy and is composed mainly of Elastin Concentrate and Hydrolyzed Collagen, leaving the skin feeling soft and tightened.
The Mederma Stretch Mark Therapy ($35.99) is a mid-price range option that is dermatologist recommended and uses an extract from onion oil. Mederma also has products to soften the appearance of scars, as well as protect scars from the sun with SPF. With Mederma Advanced Scar Gel ($21.49), Mederma Scar Cream Plus SPF 30 ($20.99) and Mederma for Kids ($14.99), the scar removal creams provide treatments for all ages and protect the skin from the sun.
Scar Zone Scar Gel with Green Tea ($11.99) is a popular cream that works to reduce the appearance of new and old discolored scars and contains SPF 15.
