Stretch marks, or striae, are irregular areas of the skin resulting from a pulling motion within the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. It's often caused by weight gain that forces the skin to stretch to a point where it loses its elasticity, which leads to reddish streaks of indentation that later turn whitish. One method to lessen the appearance of stretch marks is microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a form of skin rejuvenation. Fine crystals are blown onto the stretch marks to gently abrade the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. The process removes a portion of the epidermal layer, stimulating the production of new skin cells that are similar in elasticity and color to the rest of the skin. This helps to fade the stretch marks, but it won't cause them to disappear.
Benefits
Besides helping to fade stretch marks, one of the main benefits to microdermabrasion is that it's useful in treating older striae. Many other treatments only improve more recent stretch marks, advises the Mayo Clinic, such as topical retinoids and laser therapy. The other benefit to microdermabrasion is its recovery time, which is virtually zero. Because only a portion of the epidermis is removed, there isn't a wound to heal, so you suffer no downtime after a session.
Effects
As with any cosmetic procedure, results vary. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons explains that it isn't uncommon to require more than one treatment to provide the necessary results. Sessions are typically administered every two to three weeks, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. After each visit, a doctor can determine how many more sessions are needed to improve the skin's appearance.
Laser Treatments
Microdermabrasion also can be used in conjunction with other treatment forms. An excimer laser can help better match the pigmentation in older stretch marks with the rest of the skin. When the skin is exposed to this type of laser, it stimulates the production of melanin, darkening the skin's lightened areas.
Considerations
Microdermabrasion might not work on severe stretch marks, so make sure to consult with a dermatologist before using this cosmetic procedure. Dermatologists can better inform you whether one treatment is better than the other.
