"Treatments for Stretch Marks ...

You no longer have to live with stretch marks, or feel like you have to undergo expensive plastic surgery procedures. Armed with a bit of knowledge, you can treat your stretch marks effectively without ever getting put under for surgery.

The best way to treat stretch marks is to prevent them from ever happening. However, if you already have them, preventive strategies will keep them from getting worse, and it will improve the health of your skin. Skin that’s in good condition is easier to treat then unhealthy skin. You can cover your marks with make-up, but that just makes them less noticeable, temporarily.

Using a topical cream is an inexpensive way to treat stretch marks. There are many preparations available. You should look for one that reduces scar tissue and promotes the creation of collagen. Strivectin is a good example of this, and has long been used as a stretch mark remedy. However, to get the full effect of these creams, they must be applied consistently. Massage them in gently, to increase blood flow to the area. This will help to speed up the healing process. There are also some prescription ointments, most containing retinol or other vitamin A derivatives. These extracts are known to stimulate collagen production, working best on darker, older stretch marks.

Chemical peels are another option, generally performed in a dermatologist’s office. A thin chemical mask is applied, which removes the top layer of skin, reducing the appearance of most types of stretch marks.

Laser and light therapy are also available, and they require more than one visit to see results. With these treatments, a beam of laser light is shot right onto the stretch mark to break down scar tissue and stimulate collagen production. This works best on lighter stretch marks.

A treatment called Endermologie is used to reduce the appearance of cellulite, but it has recently been popular to treat stretch marks as well. Using gentle pressure and suction, circulation is increased, healing stretch marks.

Whatever treatment you choose, talk to your doctor first. Be sure that you are aware of all your options, and educate yourself on the option you choose before you start treatment.