Lan noticed stretch marks appearing in late middle school as she experienced a rapid growth spurt. Initially on her thighs and buttocks, they spread despite various creams. Doctor Nguyen Ngoc Tran, a dermatologist at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, diagnosed Lan with chronic stretch marks, attributing them to rapid growth during puberty and genetic factors.

According to the doctor, stretch marks are not limited to individuals gaining weight. They can also affect people with normal builds who experience rapid height increases, bodybuilders gaining muscle, and both men and women. When the body grows quickly, the skin cannot adapt fast enough, causing collagen and elastin fibers to break, leading to stretch mark formation. The risk is higher for those with skin types prone to stretch marks or a family history of the condition.

In the early stage, stretch marks appear pink or purple and respond better to timely intervention. Once they turn silvery-white or ivory, the skin structure is deeply damaged, and treatment primarily aims for cosmetic improvement, making complete recovery difficult.

Doctor Tran consults Lan about her stretch mark treatment regimen. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Tran consults Lan about her stretch mark treatment regimen. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The doctor prescribed Lan a treatment course using microneedle radiofrequency (RF) technology, consisting of 6-8 sessions, each one month apart. This method uses radiofrequency waves to generate heat, penetrating deep into the dermis. This stimulates collagen production, restructures elastic fibers, and enhances skin firmness.

After about 4 treatment sessions, Lan's stretch marks significantly faded, her skin surface became smoother, and its color more even.

Doctor Tran noted that while RF waves cannot completely erase stretch marks, especially older ones, they can significantly improve their cosmetic appearance. Treatments should be performed every 4 weeks, tailored to each individual's regimen. Efficacy depends on individual skin type, the duration of the stretch marks, and adherence to the treatment plan. Early intervention generally leads to better improvement.

Doctor Tran advises against self-medicating with stretch mark products of unverified origin. Many advertised products claim to "completely erase stretch marks" but lack scientific basis and can even pose risks, making skin thinner and more prone to damage. Families should monitor children's skin from an early age, especially during puberty when rapid weight gain or height increase occurs. If stretch marks appear, particularly when they are still pink or purple, children should be taken to a hospital for an early consultation to determine a suitable treatment. Timely intervention improves stretch mark appearance, limits their spread, and prevents aesthetic concerns that are harder to address later.

Minh Huong

*Character's name has been changed