Red stretch marks: causes, treatments and tips to prevent

Red streaks that appear on the skin especially in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and breasts. Red stretch marks, although uncomfortable for some people, represent the most recent stretch marks, that is, they are the first stage of this type of injury. Therefore, the sooner the treatment is carried out, the more satisfactory the results will be.

Laura Canti (CREMERS 36860), a doctor specializing in Dermatology, explains that stretch marks are stretching of the skin. “In other words, the stretch marks represent the breakage of the elastic fibers that occurs when the skin stretches beyond its limits”, she says. She knows causes, treatments and tips to prevent.

Red stretch marks: causes and risk factors

• Weight gain and/or weight loss after weight gain (when there is skin distensibility);
• Pregnancy (when the skin is naturally stretched on certain parts of the body);
• Genetic predisposition;
• smoking;
• Eating habits;
• Lack of skin hydration.

The reddish marks are the first stage of stretch marks, which is characterized by stretching of the skin (when there is weight gain or when a woman becomes pregnant, for example). Other factors such as eating habits, genetic issues, skin characteristics, etc., influence whether a person develops more or less stretch marks.

Laura adds that how much the skin can be stretched before the fibers that support it break down varies from person to person. “Therefore, there is no point in comparing yourself with other cases: each skin is unique”, she emphasizes.

red stretch marks treatments

Laura remembers that it is when the stretch marks are red that the patient should look for a specialist. “Red streaks are the first, inflammatory, stage of this type of injury. It is also the best time to start treatment,” she stresses.

There are different strategies to combat red stretch marks, such as those mentioned below. But the best line of treatment is the one that respects the individuality of each patient; therefore, the ideal is to talk to a specialist and follow exactly the treatment proposed by him.

Peeling

This type of treatment promotes skin renewal, leaving it more uniform, thus being a great option to treat red stretch marks (which are still in their initial phase).

microneedling

The treatment induces collagen production and the consequent skin renewal, as it promotes tiny lesions on the skin that, among other benefits, reduce stretch marks.

Laura comments that microneedling can also be combined with peelings, depending on the case, which will stimulate collagen production in a more aggressive and intense way.

Intense Pulsed Light

The application of Intense Pulsed Light treats dilated vessels (which promote the reddish appearance of stretch marks) in addition to promoting the regeneration of skin structures.

carboxytherapy

Procedure that provides for the subcutaneous application of carbon dioxide in the stretch marks to regenerate the skin, leaving it more uniform.

LED cabin

Laura comments that the LED Cabin is effective for treating red stretch marks as it is a procedure that reduces inflammation. “Usually, 30-minute weekly sessions are recommended, but each case must be evaluated with its particularities so that the treatment is really effective”, she emphasizes.

creams

In many cases, the specialist will indicate the use of creams to treat red stretch marks. Laura comments that creams rich in vitamins E, C and retinoic acid help keep the skin nourished and hydrated and increase collagen in the area.

“Creams that contain glycolic acid can also be used as they are chemical exfoliants that remove the upper layers of dead skin”, adds the doctor.

But, it is worth mentioning, each case must be treated individually, so the ideal is always to follow the guidelines of the professional who is treating your skin.

creams for red stretch marks

The best cream to treat red stretch marks will be the one indicated by the specialist who is treating your case, he will even indicate the correct use of the product (duration of treatment, frequency and times of application of the cream). Below are examples of creams that are usually indicated to treat red stretch marks:

Where to buy

1. Stretch mark cream Ligia Kogos, on Beauty on the Web
2. Cicatricure Gel, at FarmaDelivery
3. Anna Pegova Pegolisse Gel, at Beauty on the Web
4. Velastina Anti-Esrias, at Beauty on the Web
5. Elastcream Adcos
6. Mustela Martenité, at Beauty on the Web

Laura reinforces that the first step is always to look for a doctor so that he can recommend the most appropriate cream and/or treatment. Otherwise, you can spend money for nothing on products and procedures that are not usually cheap.

Red stretch marks: 5 home treatments

Yes, some home treatments can help reduce red stretch marks and even prevent them. Laura highlights that the tip is to bet on products that exfoliate, hydrate, reduce inflammation and/or strengthen the skin. Good suggestions in this regard are:

1. Bepantol

The product, which is already well known for its high moisturizing and healing power, is also an ally when it comes to fighting red stretch marks. It stimulates the production of cells regenerating the treated area, which provides a smoother and more hydrated skin.

2. Almond oil

Almond oil is a good body moisturizer and also has anti-inflammatory properties (due to the presence of zinc and vitamin E), making it a great product to help fight and prevent red stretch marks.

3. Camellia oil

Laura considers camelina oil effective in treating this type of stretch mark. “It is rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega 3, which reinforces the elasticity and smoothness of the skin”, she explains.

4. Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is an excellent option for those looking to soften stretch marks, as it has healing, lightening, emollient and antioxidant properties.

5. Exfoliation

An exfoliating cream can be used through local massages, two or three times a week, followed by hydration. This routine, in addition to preventing new stretch marks, can help improve already injured skin.

Laura points out that these homemade measures generally act by stimulating collagen production. So, in milder cases, they can help a lot. But, it is worth noting, they will not “make miracles overnight”. A care routine is essential.

Red, White and Purple Stretch Marks: What’s the Difference?

The characteristics of the stretch mark say a lot about it. According to Laura, the red and white stretch marks are two stages of the same problem, as one precedes the other; the purple ones deserve special attention.

• Red stretch marks: “it is the initial stage, as soon as the stretch marks form; a recent inflammation of the tissue”, highlights Laura.
• White stretch marks: these are stretch marks in their later stage, in which the inflammation passes and the mark remains, like a scar, explains the doctor.
• Purple stretch marks: this type of stretch mark deserves special attention because it can be related to hormonal diseases or excess steroids, for example, as highlighted by Laura.

“Always pay attention to your stretch marks and consult a specialist to see if there is no other health problem to be treated”, warns the doctor.

Red stretch marks: how to prevent

Prevention is always the best way, as the fight against stretch marks can often be long and difficult. Simple tips can make a difference, check out the guidelines of doctor Laura Conti:

• Avoid rapid and excessive weight gain, as well as the “accordion effect”, especially through a balanced diet;
• Practice physical activity regularly;
• Keep the skin well hydrated through the daily use of moisturizers and/or body oils;
• Drink plenty of water;
• Protect the skin from the sun with the use of sunscreen (especially in situations of greater exposure, such as swimming pool or beach);
• Give preference to liquid soaps, which moisturize the skin more when compared to bar soaps;
• Avoid very hot baths, as these dry out the skin and can worsen existing stretch marks.

Now you know that red stretch marks are the initial stage of the injury and, therefore, the best type of stretch marks to treat. If they are a nuisance to you, seek medical help as soon as possible so that the professional can indicate the most effective strategies for your case. Also learn more about other types of stretch marks and possible treatments.