Stretch marks are common, and there is no need to feel compelled to get rid of them. You can, however, consider using topical lotions to improve their appearance. Fortunately, there is a remedy – Mederma for stretch marks!
The Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy lotion is marketed as an anti-stretch mark solution. Though there is not enough proof to establish that this cream works, anecdotal evidence suggests it does. In this post, we will look at how Mederma can help you get rid of stretch marks. Scroll down to find out more!
In This Article
Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy: Does This Cream Work?
Yes, as per anecdotal evidence, Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy cream works. However, no studies support the claims made by the brand about the efficacy of its product.
However, moisturization and occlusion therapy can help improve the appearance of your stretch marks (by reducing TEWL or Transepidermal Water Loss) (1). The Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy cream claims to lock in moisture, keep the skin hydrated, and improve the appearance of your stretch marks.
Though there is no evidence supporting the potency of Mederma, it may work because of the ingredients.
Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy ingredients include:
1. Cepalin
Cepalin is a bioflavonoid extracted from onions. A study claims that commercially available onion extracts can improve the appearance of surgical scars as they contain several bioflavonoids, including cepalin (2).
Stretch marks are anatomically similar to scars (1). Hence, cepalin may also work for stretch marks.
2. Hyaluronic Acid
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There are limited studies supporting the role of hyaluronic acid (HA) in improving stretch marks. However, this key ingredient may help improve early stretch marks by keeping your skin hydrated. HA helps the skin retain water or moisture (3). As we are aware, hydrating and moisturization are key to improving stretch marks. Hence, HA may help in this regard (4).
StyleCraze TriviaHyaluronic acid was discovered and isolated first by Karl Meyer John Palmer in 1934.Related: Hyaluronic Acid For Hair: How It Works & Possible Side Effects
3. Centella Asiatica
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Centella Asiatica (or Gotu Kola) is widely used in K-beauty skin care products for its immense skin benefits. It helps improve collagen and elastin production, which may help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
A study states that Centella Asiatica shows promising results in improving stretch marks (4). However, the study is not conclusive, and more research is needed in this regard.
The cream also contains dimethicone, which has both occlusive and emollient properties (5).
These ingredients make Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy an effective way to reduce the stretch marks. However, you have other popular options to choose from, like Bio-Oil.
Related: Collagen-Rich Foods: Health Benefits & Drawbacks
Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy Vs. Bio-Oil
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Bio-Oil is yet another product meant for dry skin, scars, and stretch marks. The company claims that 100% of the participants in their user trials experienced an improvement in just eight weeks. There is no study supporting the claims made by the brand. However, the ingredients of the oil may work in its favor.
The key ingredients of Bio-Oil are:
- Botanical oils (Calendula, lavender, rosemary, and chamomile oils)
- Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A)
- Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol and a type of vitamin A that naturally occurs in our epidermis. It mainly protects the skin from UV and sun damage (6) (which is crucial for fading stretch marks).
Topical vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant that keeps your skin healthy. It is also a free radical scavenger (7).
Apart from these key ingredients, Bio-Oil contains an oil-base, and together, all these ingredients might contribute to its stretch mark reducing effects.
Here are the key differences between the two products:
| Mederma | Bio-Oil | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | A cream specifically designed for stretch marks. | Multipurpose oil for dry skin and stretch marks. |
| Effectiveness | Contains ingredients that are clinically proven to reduce stretch marks (like onion extracts). | Contains a blend of plant oils and vitamins that focus more on improving skin health. |
| Other Ingredients | Contains dimethicone. | Contains mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, and dye. |
Bio-Oil is lightweight and gets absorbed in the skin quickly without any greasy feeling. On the other hand, Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy is a cream that may take time to get absorbed.
Both are extremely popular products, and a lot of users swear by them. It all depends on your personal preferences and, of course, the needs of your skin. But before picking any of these, make sure that your skin can tolerate the ingredients and is not allergic to any of them.
Did You Know?Catherine Elizabeth Middleton and Kim Kardashian are among the prominent personalities who support Bio-Oil for treating pregnancy stretch marks.Related: Bio Oil For Face: Benefits, How To Apply, And Side Effects
How Long Does It Take For Mederma To Work On Stretch Marks?
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Results take time, be it Mederma on any other topical ointment you are using.
You have to be extremely patient and use the cream for at least a couple of months before you see any results. However, the company promises results within 12 weeks, and they even refund the money in case you see no result after a particular period.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using Mederma For Stretch Marks?
It depends on what your skin can tolerate and if it is allergic to any ingredient. During pregnancy, your skin (along with your body) undergoes changes, and it may become intolerant to specific ingredients.
The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction are:
- Redness
- Stinging sensation
- Rashes
- Hives
- Burning sensation
- Itchiness
If you experience any of the above reactions, stop using the product and consult a doctor immediately.
Using Mederma for stretch marks is considered one of the effective ways to fade their appearance. The cream keeps the skin moisturized and improves the appearance of the marks. In the end, it all boils down to how you are treating your skin. The results may also vary depending on the skin type, severity of the marks, your skin care routine, and other factors. If the stretch marks are fresh (red or purple), you may see fast results. However, recovery may take longer than expected if the marks are white and old, as the cream cannot completely erase the marks.
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