Stretch marks

Hi everyone.Well,I gave birth 10months ago.During pregnancy, I gained 48pounds which I've managed to shed by exercising but I've been left with horrible stretch marks that just stress me out.Is there anything that can get rid of them,like a cream?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hi,
Stretch marks can appear when there is rapid stretching of the skin. It is common in rapid gaining or losing of weight, pregnancy, puberty, cushings syndrome and overuse of steroids.

Creams containing alpha hydroxyl acids and retin-A are said to be useful in decreasing the stretch marks but the advertised antimarks creams have no proof of effectiveness. Eat healthy, nutritious food ,drink plenty of fluids and do moderate exercises. Laser therapy, and dermabrasion alone or in combination have also been shown to be effective in diminishing the appearance of stretch marks. For that you need to consult a dermatologist.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.