Stretch mark removal - creams, surgery, or microdermabrasion?

The top five removal treatments

Sadly, there are very few stretch mark removal treatments that actually get rid of them entirely. Stretch marks develop in the middle layer of the skin called the dermis, which makes them quite difficult to reach and remove. However, there are many treatments that can help to improve their appearance.

Here are our top five treatment options for regarding removal:

1. Abdominoplasty

This is probably the only treatment that completely removes stretch marks. However, it is also one of the most extreme and expensive forms of stretch mark surgery. This procedure is a tummy tuck and is primarily done to contour the stomach wall by removing excess fat and skin. If the patient happens to have stretch marks on the abdomen, below the belly button, these will also be removed during the surgery.

2. Laser Surgery

Laser surgery is one of the most popular forms of surgery for stretch marks but it is also a relatively expensive treatment option. Laser surgery won’t completely remove your stretch marks but it can have significant success in improving their appearance. The techniques involved are similar to those used to treat scars. A narrow beam of light transmits through the skin, helping to stimulate the cells in the dermis to create new tissue. At this stage most lasers only recognize color pigment, so they are not effective in treating mature stretch marks that have turned silver-white. However, there is currently new laser technology being developed that can treat white or pale scars. Most laser treatments require between five and six sessions.

3. Creams and Lotions

No cream or lotion is going to remove your stretch marks, but they can improve their appearance and also help them from spreading. Most products have the best results on stretch marks that are in their early stages, so the earlier you treat them the better. Prescription creams or those that contain tretinoin or retin A claim to penetrate the dermis and stimulate the new cell growth. Whereas, creams like Vitamin E and Cocoa butter are excellent options for helping to keep the skin soft and supple.

4. Microdermabrasion

This is a skin resurfacing technique which uses tiny crystals to remove the surface layers of skin. On its own microdermabrasion isn’t the most effective stretch mark removal treatment because it only works on the epidermis and doesn’t reach the dermis where stretch marks develop. However, it can be of some benefit if used in conjunction with other treatments.

5. Endermologie

Endermologie is a treatment that was developed in France more than a decade ago to soften scars. The endermologie machine massages the affected area with the use of rollers and a gentle suctioning action. This procedure can increase the circulation by up to 200 per cent and help to remove toxins and stretch connective fibres. A series of sessions is required for optimum results.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Stretch Mark Removal

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