How to Reduce Stretch Marks With Glycolic Acid
Stretch marks, also known as "striae," often appear during pregnancy or puberty, or after significant weight gain or weight loss. Many people are dissatisfied with the appearance of their skin with stretch marks, and may try a number of methods to reduce their stretch marks. One way to treat stretch marks is with glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and sugar cane derivative. Glycolic acid works by penetrating the skin, causing exfoliating. Through this exfoliation, dead skin cells are removed and new, healthy skin emerges. This process can be effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
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Instructions
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Purchase an OTC cream containing glycolic acid. According to FDA guidelines, OTC skin care formulas should not have a concentration of glycolic acid any higher than 10 percent. Typically, the cream should be applied to the affected area once daily. It's advised when using a product containing glycolic acid that you avoid sun exposure or apply sunscreen before going outside, since AHA can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.
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Apply to the stretch marks a combination of prescription topical tretinoin with a cream containing glycolic acid. According to a study published in Volume 24, Issue 8 of Dermatologic Surgery, glycolic acid combined with tretinoin helped to reduce stretch marks with little irritation. Topical tretinoin can be used to prep the area for a glycolic acid peel.
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Set up an appointment with a dermatologist to have a glycolic acid peel. Unlike OTC creams, which only contain a 10 percent concentration of glycolic acid, dermatologists can use higher doses of anywhere from 20 to 70 percent. Despite the higher concentration, it can nonetheless take a few office visits before there is any marked visible improvement in the appearance of the stretch marks.
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