Stretch marks are those zebra-like scars we get on the skin. They are formed when the dermis (middle skin layer) is unable to maintain its shape and elasticity. This normally happens during puberty, pregnancy or when we gain or lose weight at a rapid pace. When the skin is overstretched, the connective fibers break, disrupting the proliferation of collagen.

Anyone that has been affected by stretch marks is a candidate for stretch mark removal. Deciding on what treatment is ideal for you will depend upon the time and money you're willing to spend. Pain is another factor, as most treatments for stretch marks require downtime or several invasive scar removal sessions.

Scar Removal for Stretch Marks

The best way to get rid of stretch marks is surgery. It consists of cutting away the areas where you have stretch marks. Most people that opt for surgery are dealing with severe stretch marks on their belly and they see surgery as their last resort. Surgical stretch mark removal is very expensive, invasive and requires plenty of downtime. This is why most people seek for alternative treatments.

Laser treatment is also a surgical approach to eliminate stretch marks. It involves using a laser to eliminate stretch marks. This will trigger healthier skin to grow and replace the damaged skin. For laser treatment to be effective, several sessions are needed. It's a pretty safe procedure with mild to moderate side effects such as redness, stringing and peeling.

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical option for people that don't want to undergo an invasive treatment. This treatment can be performed by professionals at a beauty spa or by you in the comfort of your home with a microdermabrasion cream. The procedure uses microcrystals to abrade and eliminate the very top layer of the skin. This stimulates the skin and makes healthier skin to replace the old damaged skin. It also triggers collagen and elastin production to make your skin more flexible. After a few sessions, you'll notice that your stretch marks are starting to fade. The best about microdermabrasion is that you won't have side effects, it's painless and inexpensive.

There are also natural products that are able to deal with stretch marks. This is probably the most inexpensive method to get rid of marks but it's also the treatment that takes the most time. Nevertheless, let's just mention that it's still effective. These creams use a special ingredient: snail secretion. This ingredient is very beneficial because it stimulates collagen and elastin production to make the skin stronger. It also has the ability to dissolve scar tissue to improve texture and appearance of you skin.