Stretch Mark Healing Techniques
Stretch marks are a common dermatological problem for men and
women. A stretch mark is actually a scar. They occur when our
skin needs to be stretched too quickly and the inner layer of
the skin, the dermis, tears. Some examples might be, a sudden
weight gain, pregnancy or puberty, during growth spurts, even
sudden weight loss, in some cases can leave stretch marks. The
normal production of the major protein that makes up the
connective tissue in our skin, collagen, is disrupted. Our skin
is stretched thin and loses its elasticity. At first, due to the
dilation of capillaries, the stretch marks may appear pink or
red-colored. While trying to heal the wounds, the production of
collagen is increased in the overstretched tissue, resulting in
the familiar scars. A lot is said about the prevention of
stretch marks, but what can we do to remove them if they are
already formed? Can we get rid of them? Or should we just learn
to live with them? Let's take a look at some of our best
options: --In the early stages, when stretch marks are still
pinkish, apply several moisturizing creams and oils to make them
less intense while they are maturing. Massage the area daily
with body oil. Olive oil is said to be the best. Vaseline also
works, any cream rich in vitamin E, different types of butter,
cocoa butter, coconut butter and shea butter being the best.
--Micro-dermabrasion can also help. It is a skin-freshening
technique that helps repair skin conditions. The
micro-dermabrasion technique abrades the skin with a
high-pressure flow of crystals, which stimulates the formation
of new collagen and elastin. This causes the attenuated
epidermis to heal more effectively, making stretch marks heal
and become much less noticeable. --You can also use medicines
known as retinoids, which are derived from Vitamin A. Vitamin A
is known to stimulate collagen renewal underneath the skin,
healing the tears gradually. --Creams containing alpha hydroxyl
acids (AHAs) can be of some benefit also. AHAs are usually
derived from fruit. They are actually fruit acids. These creams
can improve your skin texture and color by increasing cell
regeneration. AHAs remove the top layer of cells causing
healthier ones to come to the surface. This will help improve
the appearance of the stretch marks. --You can also use laser
light as an expensive but effective treatment, if used during
the early stages. Dermatologists use a pulsed dye laser to fade
red marks. A new type of laser has been used more recently, that
can fade away mature light-colored marks. This type of therapy
requires multiple treatments. Also, some pain may be involved,
although it's minimal. A few patients with darker skin tones
have been reported to have some post-procedure pigmentary
alteration, which is usually temporary. --If the stretch marks
appear on your belly there is a final solution, plastic surgery.
During this procedure much of the skin below the belly button is
removed. Stretch marks in this area are also removed with the
skin. These stretch marks treatments may, or may not be
effective, according to your skin's complexion and the extent of
the damage. If you are planning to take drastic measures consult
a dermatologist and be informed of the cost, effectiveness of
the preferred method and side effects, if any.