Stretch Mark Removal

It should be pointed out that there is no magic bullet for the complete removal of stretch marks outside of removing the affected skin. It’s obvious, that few people would want to do that. What can be done is this. You can use various means to cause them to fade and become less noticeable.

Surgical methods

Chemical peel - A chemical peel removes the top layer of the skin, allowing it to reform sans the stretch marks. The best results are seen when the tears that cause the marks are very superficial. This method is very painful and can be costly. Be aware that most health insurance companies will not cover chemical peels for stretch mark removal because it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Laser Surgery – Although more than a few doctors encourage laser surgery as a means of stretch mark removal, clinical studies show that it is generally not very effective. It is intended to stimulate collagen production, yet in most cases, it will only fade them to a level where they are no longer noticeable. This can be expensive.

Tummy tuck – Even though it may be considered drastic by some people, a tummy tuck might be the answer, especially if your stretch marks are the result of pregnancy. What happens is that a portion of the skin below the navel is removed to create a sleeker silhouette. If stretch marks are on the portion of skin that is removed, you can kiss them goodbye. This method is also very costly.

Micro-dermabrasion – Micro-dermabrasion is a lot like sand blasting. A plastic surgeon uses a device that sprays tiny particles of crystals on the effected skin while simultaneously vacuuming off dead cells, as it moves along. The aim of this method is to remove the outer layer of skin and let a new flawless top layer of skin to form. Just like a chemical peel, it is only effective when the stretch marks are very close to the surface. It too is an expensive and painful procedure.

Creams and lotions

A less expensive and less painful method of dealing with stretch marks in to buy one of the numerous creams and lotions on the market today. Most all of them can be purchased over the counter and used in the privacy of your own home. Many makers of these products promise the complete removal of the marks. Although in some cases it may be true, the general consensus is that if they work, fading is the most you can expect. Doctors suggest using creams that contain retinoids and alphahydroxy acids. This is because there is some scientific evidence that they can help generate collagen production.

**Retinoid products such as Retin-A or steroid creams such as hydrocortisone should never be used during pregnancy.