Different Options For Stretch Mark Removal?

Answer 1

Stretch Marks are linear scars that effect the middle layer of a persons skin called the dermis. This layer is responsible for maintaining the shape and elasticity of the skin. Stretch marks usually have a dark red appearance when relatively new, which in time may fade to a color slightly paler than that of normal flesh tone, and may be rather shiny in appearance. Stretch marks will never entirely disappear on their own due to the fact that they are scars, not transitional flaws in the skin. Many individuals find them to be a source of embarrassment, and subsequently develop self-esteem issues which negatively affect their quality of life.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

When the dermis is continuously stretched over a specific amount of time, it will eventually tear, causing the scarring we call stretch marks. Stretch marks are not gender specific, and are seen in men only slightly less often than in woman. Common reasons for their appearance include pregnancy, weight gain, or extreme weight loss. Bodybuilding is also an activity that sometimes results in stretch marks, due to the skin being forced to accommodate ever increasing muscle mass. In rare cases, stretch marks may be caused by a deficiency of zinc in one’s diet.

Treatments For Stretch Mark Removal

There are many different topical creams and ointments available to help an individual seeking stretch mark removal. Similar ingredients may be found in many of these creams due to the fact that these are proven to be the most beneficial in the treatment of stretch marks. Some of these ingredients include aloe vera, cocoa butter, glycolic acid, grapefruit seed extract, palmitoyl oligopeptide, and retinyl palmitate.

There are also surgical and cosmetic procedures available if an individual feels other treatments have not been effective. Dermabrasion, also called surgical skin planing, is a cosmetic procedure performed under general anesthesia, where the skin is frozen and then resurfaced, thereby eliminating the scars. Chemical skin peeling, or chemexfoliation, is a procedure which uses certain chemicals to cause the skin to blister and peel, and subsequently improve its appearance. These procedures are considered cosmetic in nature, however, and are not generally covered under most health insurance plans. If an individual is not sure where to begin, he or she may consider speaking to a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for their individual circumstances.