Wondering if those stretch marks from what seem like the long ago days of pregnancy will ever fade? They will gradually become less noticeable in the months to come, says certified nurse-midwife Ann Linden. But if they continue to bother you, consider making an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss treatment. Most approaches have proven to be only modestly effective, but there are some things he or she may be able to do to improve their appearance.
If you're not breastfeeding, your dermatologist may prescribe tretinoin cream (commonly known by the brand name Retin-A), alone or in combination with other creams. A few studies have shown that applying 0.1 percent tretinoin cream may help with stretch marks. In one study, the treatment reduced the length of the stretch marks by 14 percent and the width by 8 percent. In another study, it decreased the length by 20 percent.
However, there's no good information about how the medication is absorbed, whether it gets excreted in breast milk, and what effect it might have on your baby, so it should be avoided while nursing.
Laser therapy is another option. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, a surgeon can use different types of lasers depending on the color of the stretch marks. One type reduces the color of dark stretch marks while another stimulates the production of pigment-making cells in already faded stretch marks. A newer type of laser therapy can be used to stimulate the production of collagen and help restore the skin's elasticity in depressed stretch marks.
It's unlikely that your health insurance plan would cover such cosmetic procedures. So if you decide to go this route, you'll probably have to pay for the consultation and any treatments out of your own pocket.