Getting Rid of Stretch Marks

by Charlene Sim

When your skin gets stretched beyond its capacity, scars are formed. These are known as stretch marks. When they first appear, stretch marks are red or purple streaks on your skin. In time they fade to a white or off white color.

Obesity and pregnancy are the most common reasons for the development of stretch marks. Many people will get stretch marks at one time or another. A large percentage of the population has been overweight or pregnant at some time in their lives! It's not just women who get stretch marks, either. Few people realize that they are a common complaint of male body builders as well.

The good news is that there are several treatments for stretch marks that have been shown to be highly effective. Here's a look at three of the most common ways to deal with this condition.

1. Dermabrasion. General anesthesia is required when you undergo this kind of stretch mark surgery. Dermabrasion is useful for reducing the visibility of abnormalities on your skin such as sun damage, dark spots and scars. The surface of the skin is literally sanded off during this procedure.

Dermabrasion works best when the scar or mark being treated is above the surface of the skin. For the treatment of sunken scars, though, it's not nearly as effective. The procedure is very painful and the healing process can take several months.

2. Microdermabrasion. Often referred to as microderm, this is a far less invasive procedure. It's a popular, easily accessible treatment that doesn't require an anesthetic. It involves removing the surface layer of the skin by using a special wand with a roughened surface to lightly sand the skin. Microdermabrasion enjoys a reputation as a painless treatment that is perfectly safe.

3. Skin treatment creams. There are hundreds of products marketed these days that claim to prevent or eliminate stretch marks. Some people swear by remedies such as Vitamin A cream, cocoa butter or various specially formulated creams.

There are several of these treatments that have scientific evidence showing that they can minimize the look of stretch marks. Some of the more effective treatments for stretch marks are Trilastin, Revitol and NuVectin. Keep in mind that these products are generally more effective at preventing stretch marks than eliminating them.

However, many products tend to overstate their ability to get rid of stretch marks. Before using any product that claims to eliminate stretch marks, try to find some unbiased customer reviews. Search the internet, and look for sites that aren't tied to the product being sold. Be sure to investigate the manufacturer's website and research the source of their product claims if you can.

About the Author:

Stretch marks can impact anyone, male or female, through weight gain, pregnancy and bodybuilding. Learn more about the options for treating this condition at Get Rid of Stretch Marks: Tips to Prevent and Treat Stretch Marks.