Tretinoin and Stretch Marks

tretinoin-stretch-marks

Stretch marks will occur in people who have rapid weight loss or weight gain. This is why it increases when women get pregnant. Stretch marks will not affect anyone physically, but most people do not enjoy the look of them and some people are also self conscious about them.

To reduce the look, some people have used tretinoin on stretch marks.

What is Tretinoin?

Tretinoin is a derived from vitamin A. One of the more popular stretch mark creams is known as Retin-A. Retin-A contains tretinoin that is used effectively as a treatment for stretch marks. The cream works by thinning the surface of the skin. When this occurs, the cream is able to reach the layer that is located directly under the skin. Once there it is able to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is produced by the body and it gives the skin the ability to withstand stretching and this in-turn lowers the chances of stretch marks occurring.

Does Tretinon Cream Help Stretch Marks?

As mentioned above, Tretinoin (Retin-A cream) has the ability to improve the deep collagen layers. In doing so, the cream is able to not only increase the health of the skin, but also improve the blood supply and improve the overall thickness. When this occurs, what is left is skin that is firmer, smoother and has the ability to get rid of fine wrinkles.

As it relates to stretch marks there are two schools of thought related to this cream. Some people believe that tretinoin can effectively reduce stretch marks. There have been studies that have been conducted that show when tretinoin has been used on stretch marks, they were reduced. This was however done on new marks and not existing ones.  As it relates to older marks, tretinoin improves collagen and elasticity, however it does not get rid of old and damaged skin. Older stretch marks will not be affected by the use of tretinoin

Study of Tretinoin Retin A Stretch Marks

Researchers have looked at Tretinoin and other creams for the treatment of stretch marks. These creams have been studied to examine their effectives. There was a study that was published in the Archives of Dermatology (May 1996). In this study, 22 patients were given either a placebo or Retin-A during the course of a 6 month study. During that study, Researchers discovered that 80% of the individuals who were given Retin-A showed a significant reduction the length and width of their stretch marks. It was further noticed that these creams that contained Retin-A worked best on new stretch marks.

Warning in using Tretinoin

It should be noted that tretinoin cannot be used during pregnancy. It is considered to be unsafe for the baby. As it relates to mothers who are breastfeeding, there is still research being done to find out if there are negative effects of the baby. Mothers who are breastfeeding and want to use tretinoin should consult their doctor.

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