Can I Get Stretch Marks on My Face?

Stretch marks are unsightly scars on the body that result from quick weight gain, causing the skin to stretch more quickly than it normally would. The result can be devastating. Stretch marks can occur anywhere, from your rear end to your thighs to your stomach and—yes—your face as well.

What Causes Stretch Marks on the Face?

Stretch marks can be found on any part of the body that has the potential to gain weight, including the face. The actual stretch mark occurs when the middle layer of skin is stretched to the point where it no longer retains any elasticity. According to the All About Stretch Marks website, bleeding occurs on a microscopic level and that is what causes the raised purple marks that can be found on newer stretch marks. As the damage heals, it leaves behind the traditional raised stretch marks.

Getting Rid of Facial Stretch Marks

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Many people with stretch marks hold out hope for that instant cure. While there are cosmetic products that can make stretch marks smoother and less noticeable, there is no such thing as an instant fix for stretch marks. Surgical methods are the only method that can truly have anything close to an instant effect on stretch marks.

Making Stretch Marks Less Noticeable

It is easy to hide stretch marks on the breasts, buttocks or legs with clothing. But stretch marks on your face can be more difficult to hide. Consider investing in self-tanning lotion, as that can darken the color of the skin and make stretch marks less noticeable. Many people find that their stretch marks go away over time 1. If the waiting game doesn’t work for you, there are other options.

Dermabrasion for Stretch Marks on the Face

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Depending on your budget, dermabrasion, chemical peels and laser surgery can all be used to rid yourself of unwanted stretch marks on your face or anywhere else on the body.

With dermabrasion, the skin is frozen and an instrument is used to “sand” down stretch marks and other imperfections. This is often used for pockmarks from acne as well as other scars on the body, but it can be used for stretch marks on the face as well.

Chemical Peels for Stretch Marks

The idea behind chemical peels is very close to the idea behind dermabrasion. With this procedure a chemical is applied to the face, which causes it to blister and peel. The new skin that grows underneath the blistered layer is usually much smoother and suppler than the original skin. This can help make stretch marks and other flaws much less noticeable.

Over-the-Counter Stretch Mark Treatments

The same OTC products used to treat stretch marks all over the body can be used on the face. Be sure to make certain that the product won’t clog your pores or cause a breakout. Your doctor may be able to recommend a good product for use on your stretch marks. Creams and lotions of all types are available, and cocoa butter has long been touted for its use in preventing and curing stretch marks. Every person’s body is different, so different methods work for different people.