Stretch marks occur for a myriad of reasons. Whether the result of weight fluctuation, pregnancy or a medical condition, their appearance can be embarrassing. And because stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body, they are not always easy to hide. Fortunately there are several treatment options that can help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Microdermabrasion
According to the Mayo Clinic, microdermabrasion can help treat stretch marks, especially older ones. With this treatment, a doctor uses an instrument that blows tiny crystals onto the skin. The crystals gently polish the skin, removing the top layer. A vacuum tube then sucks up the crystals and skin cells. As a result, stretch marks are diminished as the new skin grows.
Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment
Brian Zelickson of the University of Minnesota explains that stretch marks can sometimes be remedied with laser treatments. Laser treatments reduce the redness and inflammation of stretch marks. In addition, lasers encourage the growth of new collagen, adding the elastin to the skin.
Fractional Laser Therapy
For some stretch marks, a dermatologist may use fractional photothermolysis therapy, notes The Patient's Guide for stretch marks. In this procedure, a laser creates several tiny dotted vertical injuries to the stretch mark, leaving non injured skin in between the injured skin. The untreated skin helps the injured skin heal quickly, replacing the stretch marks with healthy, smoother skin.
Tanning
Stretch marks can be remedied right from home with the help of a sunless tanning treatment. The TeensHealth website suggests using over-the-counter sprays and lotions to cover up the offending stretch march. Unfortunately, the sun or tanning beds are not an efficient option because stretch marks are not likely to tan.
Tretinoin Cream
Tretinoin cream can improve the appearance of stretch marks. However, the Mayo Clinic says that stretch marks have to be less than six weeks old and still have a reddish or pink color to them. Tretinoin works by helping to rebuild collagen, diminishing the appearance of stretch marks. This treatment should never be used while pregnant because of potential health risks to the fetus.
Excimer Laser
Unlike other laser therapies, the Mayo Clinic explains that the excimer laser does not improve elastin or collagen growth. Instead, the laser helps to stimulate melanin production, repigmenting the stretch mark. This can cause stretch marks to appear more similar in color to the skin surrounding them. As a result, stretch marks become less noticeable. This procedure is often used for older stretch marks.
