How To Treat The Skin For Scars & Stretch Marks

Scars and stretch marks are caused by very different factors, but in some cases they can both appear as a result of a pregnancy, rapid weight gain or surgery. Scars are the outgrowth of hard, dense tissue; stretch marks are caused when skin is literally stretched and thinned. Despite their differences, some similar treatments can help you address both skin issues.

Step 1

Apply shea butter or cocoa butter lotions to moisturize your skin. In a Fox News report, Dr. Neil Sadick explains that moisturizing your skin will help reduce the itchiness of stretch marks. When you scratch a stretch mark, it becomes more pronounced. Furthermore, the "Handbook of Dermatology" notes that moisturizing lotions will fade the appearance of light scars.

Step 2

Use a microdermabrasion kit on your skin. Microdermabrasion kits are available over-the-counter at many pharmacies. These kits typically include a small abrasive pad or brush, designed to exfoliate the skin, removing damaged skin cells. This prompts the growth of new, healthy skin at the treatment site, reducing the appearance of stretch marks and scars, according to Dr. Philip S. Chau of the Cebu Cardiovascular Center.

Step 3

Go to your dermatologist's office for dermabrasion therapy. Like microdermabrasion, dermabrasion treatments remove skin cells to foster new tissue growth. The primary difference between these methods is that dermabrasion removes a full layer of skin. The remaining skin is often raw or swollen after the treatment, but within a few days, you will notice clearer, healthier skin. This treatment is effective for both scars and stretch marks.

Step 4

Go to your dermatologist for collagen injections. Collagen injections plump up stretch marks, making them less noticeable. Collagen is also effective on certain types of scars. Indented acne scars, also called "ice pick" scars, can be treated with collagen. Collagen treatments will even out the skin for a smoother, more natural appearance. However, collagen treatment is only temporary. You will need new injections every 3 to 12 months, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Step 5

Go for laser resurfacing treatments. A number of laser therapies are available for stretch marks and scars. Depending on the size and severity of the skin blemish, the type of laser varies. According to the University of Michigan Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center, laser therapies include non-ablative lasers designed to promote new collagen growth, CO2 lasers to smooth damaged tissue, and Erbium laser peels that remove entire layers of human skin. Discuss laser treatment options with your doctor.