Microdermabrasion uses a fine abrasive to remove the surface layer of skin. The process encourages the growth of collagen and new, healthier skin. According to CEBU Cardiovascular Center, microdermabrasion can successfully diminish the appearance of some fine lines, wrinkles and scarring. However, because stretch marks develop deep within the connective tissue, microdermabrasian of the surface of the skin has little effect on them.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are fine bands or lines on the skin that differ in color from the rest of the skin. They may be red, white or a paler tan than surrounding skin. Stretch marks occur whenever the skin stretches rapidly -- such as during periods of rapid growth in puberty, during pregnancy, and if you gain a lot of weight. They can appear on almost any part of the body but are most common on the stomach, breasts and thighs.
Process
A microdermabrasion treatment begins with the technician cleaning the skin. Then the technician aims a probe at the area to be treated. The probe or wand pummels the skin with a stream of very fine crystals. A vacuum attachment sucks up the crystals after they've hit the skin, along with skin flakes the treatment removes. The treatment is mildly irritating and has been compared to an ant bite or mild sunburn. Afterward, you'll need to protect the skin from exposure to the sun and wear a sunscreen.
Benefits
Microdermabrasion is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't require surgery or anesthetic. It works well for skin defects on the surface of the skin, such as acne scarring and fine lines. You can return to work and normal activities right away after a microdermabrasion treatment.
Disadvantages
Microdermabrasion can't treat problems deeper within the skin tissue, such as stretch marks. Treatments are expensive, and you may need multiple treatments in order to fade scars or diminish wrinkles. Microdermabrasion should only be performed by an experienced technician. If performed improperly, it could case bleeding, infection or additional scarring.
Alternatives
Go Ask Alice, the health column produced by Health Services at the University of Columbia, cautions that creams the purport to fade stretch marks don't work. Stretch marks do fade naturally over time, but the only way to get rid of them altogether is to have plastic surgery.
