Stretch marks are probably the most common scar problems that many women have; although men also suffer from these. When the skin is overstretched beyond return point, it will create fissure on the surface making blood vessels in the skin to appear, which give these vertical streaks their peculiar reddish/purplish color. Both men and women develop stretch marks when they are obese, and losing weight too fast, could also contribute to the development of stretch marks. The streaks are often found on the stomach, armpits, around the hips and legs. At the same time, pregnant women develop stretch marks mostly on their stomach, as their belly balloons. Some reports also says that diseases like Marfan syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome also cause stretch marks to develop, but this is a very rare occasion.
A keloid on the other hand is a type of scar that doesn’t regress. In his article, Dr. Gary Cole, MD, FAAD, “Keloids can be considered to be "scars that don't know when to stop." A keloid, sometimes referred to as a keloid scar, is a tough heaped-up scar that rises quite abruptly above the rest of the skin. It usually has a smooth top and a pink or purple color. Keloids are irregularly shaped and tend to enlarge progressively.” Not everyone is susceptible to developing keloids, just as not everyone may suffer from stretch marks. However, keloids seem to run in the family.
Stretch marks fade over time and become less visible for most people. However, it may not disappear completely. A few would opt for laser and surgical procedures to remove the streaks. Some would go for cheaper and less abrasive procedures like blue light therapy, microdermabrasion and chemical peels. But, many people prefer the natural way as it is cheaper, and well, natural.
Some Natural Remedies for Stretch Marks
How about keloids? Are they treatable? Well, the best way to deal with it is to not get one at all. When you know that keloid formation runs in your family, don’t get piercing and don’t undergo cosmetic surgeries. Most procedures to remove this type of scar is less desirable. There’s cortisone injection, which is given every 4-8 weeks, and it’s usually effective in flattening keloids. However, the steroids in the injection may make the keloid, although flat, appear redder. And then there’s surgery, which may post more risk as cutting the scar may trigger a larger formation of the same keloid. Laser is effective, but needs to be performed in several sessions, which may not hurt physically, but may hurt the pocket severely as it’s expensive.
Some Natural Remedies for Keloid Scars
