Stretch marks

Stretch marks are fragmented silvery scars that lay deep in the skin. They usually form on thighs, breasts, abdomen or buttocks. One of the ways of treating stretch marks is microdermabrasion.

Our skin consists of three different layers: the epidermis (the top layer), the dermis(the middle layer) and the subcutaneous tissue (the bottom layer). Most of the skin imperfections usually form on the epidermis (the skin’s surface). Although stretch marks form on the dermis you can still see them on the body.

There is a common belief that stretch marks are caused by stretched skin, but it is not true. Stretch marks form in the following way. There are two fibers in our skin that keep it taut – elastin and collagen. Now there is also a hormone called glucocorticoid. When it is produced in big amounts it stops the production of elastin and collagen. That means that skin grows without elastic support and in some time it tears. These signs of tear are called stretch marks. They are caused by many different reasons such as rapid weight loss or gain, intense physical activity, pregnancy or medication. Unfortunately, the torn dermal cells never recover completely. This means that stretch marks are permanent. But there are still ways of treating them and making less visible.

Today many different companies produce creams that are supposed to cure stretch marks but they do not usually work. That’s because stretch marks need much more serious treatment. These creams can be effective if used together with other types of treatment.

Microdermabrasion doesn’t reach the dermis but it does help to diminish the stretch marks. To understand the process better imagine that stretch marks are microscopic valleys that go across your skin. Microdermabrasion uses a crystal flow that sandblasts your skin and the ridges of these valleys erode. It also renews collagen production so that the skin becomes more elastic and the stretch marks become thinner.
There are many other ways of treating besides microdermabrasion. They are:
Deep chemical peel
Topical creams containing cocoa butter
Radio frequency combined with pulsed laser
Laser resurfacing (it is only effective for the stretch marks that are still reddish, silvery stretch marks can not be removed by this procedure)
Surgical removal of the affected skin areas

You will get the best results if you choose the kind of treatment that is right for you. That’s why you should consult with a doctor or a dermatologist.

Good results can also be reached by combining microabrasion with other treatment such as cocoa butter or radio frequency sessions. Under of course don’t forget about the diet. Eating healthy food is important to maintain a healthy skin.

But of cause the best cure is prevention. Here are some tips on how to prevent stretch marks:
Keep your skin healthy. Try to drink at least 2 liters of water (not soda or juices) every day. Water helps your skin stay elastic. If you drink a lot of black or green tea, coffee drink 3 liters of water a day.
Eat carrots, eggs, low-fat cheese, nuts, milk, fish and lean meat. They contain nutrients that are essential to a healthy skin.