Stretch marks are a type of scarring that occur when the dermis (the middle layer of the skin) is stretched beyond the capacity of its elasticity. Such strain can be caused by extreme weight gain or weight loss. Pregnancy stretch marks are also comon. When the dermis breaks down, the skin cannot bounce back to its original shape, leaving behind reddish to purplish elongated scars that eventually solidify into glossy, white or grey streaks.
Both women and men encounter stretch marks over various parts of the body, such as the lower back, abdomen, hips, thighs, breasts, and upper arms.
Even though stretch marks are comon, and naturally occur the more and more we age, these permanent streaks can disfigure the skin and cause embarrassment when they occur on parts of the body that are occasionally visible during the warm summer months.
Fortunately there are various treatments available when stretch marks cause a loss of confidence in one’s physical appearance.
Treatments are most effective when stretch marks are dealt with early on. Immature stretch marks that are red and purplish in appearance are still healing, and are much more susceptible to modification by expert intervention than mature stretch marks that have settled as white and silver streaks.
The specific stretch mark treatment that is right for you depends on a variety of biological and environmental factors, such as your age, skin tone, genetics, and diet. Seeking the consultation of a licensed skin care professional will help you determine which specific stretch mark treatment is best suited for your situation.
Stretch Mark Creams and Lotions
Lotions and Creams that are used to prevent or diminish stretch marks usually incorporate one, or several of the following ingredients:
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Glycolic Acid
Glycolic Acid is an alpha hyrdroxy Acid (AHA) which can stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen, which helps the skin stretch without causing strains and breakdowns in the dermis layer of this skin.
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Vitamin A:
Vitamin A contain retinoids, which can increase the production of collagen and elastin within the skin, which can be particularly helpful during early intervention for stretch marks. It is important to remember that prescription retinoid cream should be avoided during pregnancy and when breast feeding.
Reducing Stretch Marks with Message?
Another at home treatment suggested by dermatologists for reducing the appearance of stretch marks is massage. By massaging the skin area affected by stretch marks, using a circular motion, you can slightly reduce the friction caused by the stretching collagen and elastin that forms the dermis.
Professional Stretch Mark Treatments from Med Spas
At-home solutions for stretch marks that include lotions, creams, massages, and other self prescribed treatments are only minimally effective at diminishing the appearance of stretch marks. For visible results, men and women seek professional treatments from licensed skin care technicians.
Laser Stretch Mark Treatment
Skin care experts agree that of all the stretch mark treatments, the most effective is laser stretch mark reduction. When applied with expert precision, lasers can create microscopic wounds within the skin. Collagen and Elastin production is sent into overdrive by this external stimulation of the body’s natural healing process.
Laser Stretch Mark Treatment Before and After Pictures
By delicately peeling off the outermost layers of skin with Chemical Peels, Dermatologists and skin care professionals can reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The peeling stimulates the body’s natural healing process, producing an increase in collagen and elastin production. These proteins give skin its spring and elasticity helping to diminish the breakdown of the dermis layer.
Microdermabrasion is another popular treatment for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Using a diamond encrusted wand, Microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin, delicately sanding out the ridges caused by stretch marks, diminishing the appearance of the scar by smoothing the skin.
