Stretch marks are known in dermatology as striae, but to us they just represent something we want to get rid of! Stretch marks are a type of scarring that causes a discoloration of the skin. They are caused by the tearing of the dermis. It goes without saying that those with stretch marks are looking to get rid of them. Let's look more into what stretch marks are, what causes them and what ways are the most successful in getting rid of them.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are a result of rapid stretching of the skin linked to rapid growth which we usually see during times of puberty, weight gain, or pregnancy. Yet, stretching is not the sole cause, this condition is also influenced by hormonal changes, diet and exercise. It is the glucocorticoid hormones that hold the blame as they can prevent the formation of collagen and elastin fibers. These elements are those that work to keep rapidly growing skin taut. This combination of rapid growth and hormone changes leads to dermal and epidermal tearing.

What are the Symptoms of Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks have the appearance of red or purple lines that eventually mature and turn white. Affected areas are soft to the touch and appear empty. This type of scarring affects the dermis, the resilient middle layer of the skin that helps it to retain its shape. Stretch marks generally appear on areas that have the most fat which include the abdomen, breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs, hips and buttocks.

What are Ways to Get Rid of Marks?

Laser treatments, microdermabrasion and prescription retinoids are a few of the various treatment options available for the purpose of improving the appearance of existing stretch marks. Natural skin care products are also successful in both prevention and removal.

A progressive method of fractional laser resurfacing treats with scattered pulses of light that work on segments of the scar over the course of several treatments. This approach creates microscopic wounds that the skin's biology responds to by forming more collagen and epithelium. This method has been successful in reducing appearance, but does not completely remove the visibility of the stretch marks. If considering laser treatments, it is also imperative to think about the pain of the therapy and the expense as multiple sessions are necessary.

Microdermabrasion treatment for stretch marks uses a specially fitted tool to scrape away the top layers of skin. A sand blasting technique is done with microscopic particles to firmly exfoliate the skin. This method stimulates the formation of new collagen and elastin which are essential for healing and smooth skin results. However, there are limitations to microdermabrasion treatment. Mature white stretch marks will not be affected by microdermabrasion treatment. Also, some natural types of home microdermabrasion creams, mentioned below, may be a worthy alternative.

Retinoids are a group of products that include retinol which increases collagen and elastin production. If consistently massaged into newly affected areas, these medications can improve the appearance of stretch marks. However, retinoids will have no affect on mature stretch marks.

Some natural stretch marks creams that have the right ingredients can work organically with your skin's natural systems to reduce stretch mark appearance. Products that contain Helix Aspersa Muller not only stimulate collagen and elastin proliferation as do other methods, but can also work to improve the skin's metabolism, counter hormonal effects, and dissolve scar tissue. Enzymes and messenger cells can tell apart damaged cells from good ones, getting rid of those that are non functional and working to rejuvenate healthy cells for the skin's matrix. This all natural and comprehensive system promises to get rid of stretch marks so you can enjoy beautiful skin.