Retin-A Effects on Stretch Marks

Retin-A, known generically as tretinoin, is a derivative of vitamin A. It is used for acne treatment but is also believed to correct skin that is damaged, according to Omudhome Orbru, PharmD, writing on MedicineNet.com. Retin-A irritates the skin, and in the process, makes the skin cells divide and die more rapidly than normal, which results in an increase in cell turnover. New cells that are acne-free or damage-free surface. Orbru says when using Retin-A, the layers of skin cells are reduced.

Expert Insight

Retin-A can be applied to stretch marks when they are fresh and still red or pink. Retin-A will reduce the redness in a new stretch mark and might help prevent scarring. But according to HealthLearningInfo.org, Retin-A is only effective on a new stretch mark, meaning one that is less than a year old. MayoClinic.com notes tretinoin cream (Retin-A or Renova) helps to rebuild collagen, which is a protein substance.

Not For Use if Pregnant or Nursing

Retin-A does a repair job on your skin. If you are pregnant and/or nursing, you cannot use it, and those are the times when you are most likely to develop stretch marks. If you develop stretch marks because of rapid weight gain that is not pregnancy-related, this cream might be beneficial in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. According to MotherNature.com, you have to wait until the peeling and redness, caused by the Retin-A application, diminishes before you can see its benefits.

Benefits

According to Orbru of MedicineNet.com, areas of rough skin, as well as wrinkles and areas of the skin that have darkened, all of which are probably the result of sun damage, can benefit from the use of tretinoin.

Limitations

MarieClaire.com points out no topical lotion will completely eliminate stretch marks. An individual might see some subtle improvement by applying Retin-A because it will reduce the redness of the stretch marks because it causes the blood vessels to constrict.

Sun Sensitivity

If you apply Retin-A topically, you might develop photosensitivity or a sensitivity to the sun. Make sure you cover up the areas of your skin that have Retin-A on them before you go into the sun.