Stretch marks are a common skin problem that occur due to the overstretching of skin mixed with the presence of a hormone known as cortisol. Cortisol weakens the fibers of the skin tissue, making it more difficult for the skin to rebound to its normal shape after stretching, which leaves dark-colored stretch marks on the skin. Unfortunately, these stretch marks can leave white or silver scars for years after the stretch marks form. When these marks appear in places you don't want them to show, there are several ways that you can help remove or reduce their appearance on the skin.
Laser
Laser treatments are a common method of treatment for removing stretch marks. When choosing a laser methods there are various methods available, such as the pulsed dye laser and the excimer laser. Pulsed dye lasers penetrate deep into the skin to activate the production of collagen and elastin, which help raise the scar tissue of the stretch marks even with the surrounding skin. Excimer lasers work by activating the production of pigment in the mark itself, helping darken the skin to better match the color of the surrounding skin tissue, suggests the Berman Skin Institute.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion can also be used to help remove stretch mark scars. Microdermabrasion uses a wand-like tool to propel crystals of abrasive substances, such as zinc oxide or aluminum oxide, at the skin. The abrasiveness of the crystals removes the outer layer of scar tissue allowing a new smoother and more elastic layer to replace it. The process also brings oxygen-rich blood closer to the surface of the skin as well as stimulates fibroblast activity which increases the production of collagen, according to Dr. Marco A. Pelosi of the Pelosi Medical Center.
Tretinoin
Tretinoin is a retinoid derived from vitamin A. When applied topically to the area of the stretch mark scars, tretinoin goes to work increasing the production of collage. This additional collagen helps the stretch marks look more like normal skin, suggests the Mayo Clinic. However, tretinoin should not be used while pregnant or breastfeeding, making it not the right choice for dealing with pregnancy-related stretch mark scars.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are used on stretch marks scars to reduce their appearance on the skin. A dermal filler, such as hyaluronic acid or collagen, is injected by your doctor directly into the indented tissue of the scar. This fills in the space below the scar tissue, making it more even with the surrounding skin. When choosing a dermal filler, it is important to note that bovine-based collagen can cause serious allergic reaction in those with certain allergies. To avoid this reaction, your doctor will most likely require an allergy test before the injections.
