Various reasons lead to the formation of stretch marks. Over 50%-80% of the population have this condition due to various factors (1). However, you can reduce these marks by using home remedies and treatment options. This article discusses purple stretch marks, their causes, and treatments. Continue reading to know more. During the early stages, the stretch marks may appear reddish and purple. When collagen and elastin fibers stretch to the point of damage or rupturing and blood vessels dilate, the reddish-purple stretch marks are formed. This is commonly seen in pregnant women and is called striae gravidarum (2). They may also appear pinkish and reddish-brown, depending on your skin tone. Early stretch marks can be a bit itchy and feel slightly raised when you run your fingers on them. Purple stretch marks do not develop everywhere. They develop on specific parts.
Where Do Purple Stretch Marks Appear On The Body?
The most common areas where you get stretch marks are:
Abdomen Hips Buttock Thighs Lower back Breasts Upper arms
Early stretch marks are easier to treat than late stretch marks (also called white stretch marks). This is because early stretch marks respond to treatment. Although you cannot erase them completely, you can improve their appearance and prevent the severity of the marks.
How To Treat Purple Stretch Marks
1. Microneedling
Microneeding may help minimize early stretch marks. In a study, 16 Korean women underwent three treatments at intervals of four weeks. Seven patients showed excellent improvement (43.8%), while the remaining nine patients showed a minimum to moderate improvement. No significant side effect was reported, except for erythema, mild pain, and spotty bleeding (3).
2. Retinoids
Tretinoin (Retin-A) is a prescription medication and a form of vitamin A. It may help reduce the appearance of early stretch marks (4). However, it may cause redness, skin irritation, and peeling. Also, avoid using Tretinoin if you are pregnant.
3. Chemical Peeling
Chemical peels are applied to your skin to remove the topmost layer and dead skin cells. This can make the skin smooth. Doctors may also use chemical peels to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. However, you may need multiple sessions.
4. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is an effective way to improve the appearance of new stretch marks. In a small study, a 585-nm pulsed dye laser with a 10-mm spot improved the appearance of stretch marks (5). In another study, a1064-nm long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser improved immature stretch marks (6). People often use natural and home remedies for treating stretch marks. But do they work? Find out in the next section.
Home Remedies For Purple Stretch Marks: Do They Work?
There is no science-backed evidence that states that home remedies can help eliminate stretch marks. Topical remedies may have mild effects. Also, it is not yet clear if the ingredients in topical creams and ointments have any specific effect. A study found that the moisturizing effect of the creams and ointments might be the reason for the improvement in stretch marks (7). Hence, the best you can do is keep your skin well moisturized. You may use plant oils for this purpose. The following plant oils may help keep the skin moisturized:
Almond oil Coconut oil Sunflower oil Grape seed oil Argan oil Sesame oil Avocado oil Jojoba oil Shea butter
These oils prevent transepidermal water loss from the skin and maintain the integrity of the skin’s natural barrier (8). You can also use hyaluronic acid, which is thought to stimulate the fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen) and keep the skin hydrated (9). Above all, you have to watch your diet. When you eat healthy food, your skin gets enough nutrients and stays healthy. This can also help you manage your weight and avoid rapid weight gain. You may also apply hydrating creams and lotions on the marks, but there is no proof that you will get definite results. However, you can use these remedies as a preventive measure to minimize the appearance of stretch marks, especially if you are prone to them. The following factors put you at risk of developing stretch marks.
Who Can Get Purple Stretch Marks: The Risk Factors
You can develop purple stretch marks if:
You are pregnant. You experience sudden weight gain/loss. You are a teenager experiencing a growth spurt. You are overweight or obese. You are using corticosteroids. You are a bodybuilder who is trying to build muscle mass quickly. You are dealing with conditions like Cushing’s syndrome and Marfan syndrome.
Is It Possible To Prevent Stretch Marks?
Not always. However, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing stretch marks:
Keep your skin moisturized. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Maintain a healthy weight. Follow a balanced diet. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure your skin and body get the required nutrients. If you are pregnant, work with your doctor to maintain a healthy weight and follow a proper diet. Exercise regularly so that you can maintain a healthy weight.
How long do purple stretch marks take to fade? Purple stretch marks may take six months to a year to fade if they are properly cared for during their early stages. Do stretch marks become more visible with weight loss? Yes. The skin stretches due to weight gain or rapid growth and stretch marks become visible when you lose weight.
