The generally held medical standpoint is that there is no clear-cut treatment for stretch marks. We are not talking of major cosmetic surgery or otherwise radical intervention here, of course - those are definitely possible approaches, but highly expensive ones that are by no means free of inherent complications. Before one considers medical or surgical alternatives, it makes sense to examine the most favored home treatments.

These can at no time be viewed as anything more than preventive methods and possible damage control. No one should harbor the illusion that stretch marks can be made to disappear by 'homegrown' means. They can at best be minimized - which is a major step forward, considering that cosmetics are largely ineffectual in hiding them.

The best time for preventive measures is when stretch marks are just beginning to be visible. At this stage, the failing elasticity of the skin can be augmented with moisturizing agents such as cocoa butter and good quality vitamin E compounds such as almond oil. Another time-honored method of reducing stretch marks caused by obesity is exercising the affected area consistently. This would mean straight leg raises for stretch marks on the hips and thighs, stomach

Ongoing research will doubtlessly yield some workable home remedies for stretch marks. For instance, a compound developed on the basis of research conducted by the Duke University Medical Center reportedly seems to be able to replenish collagen in certain cases. The compound's operative ingredient is vitamin C. No reliable surveys have been made as to its efficacy, but the fact that the world of science is seriously looking for over-the-counter remedies for stretch marks is encouraging.

The use of vitamin K and lavender oil has also been reported as at least marginally beneficial in controlling stretch marks.