There are many products available over the counter and medical procedures to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. Scars appear after an injury or surgery because the healing process has been interrupted by one reason or another, and there is lack of collagen in the skin. Stretch marks appear when the skin has been stretched due to gaining weight. These are some of the ways to treat scars and stretch marks.
Laser Removal
Many plastic surgeons perform laser scar removal. This is also an effective procedure for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. The lasers focus on the lower layers of skin, helping to promote new collagen growth. With the new growth of collagen, the skin is able to regenerate and decrease the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
The procedure is performed by the surgeon moving the laser over the skin. Then, the under layers of skin are exposed and the skin is left looking rejuvenated. This procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on how big the area being treated is. It only takes around an hour or so, and there is minimal recovery time.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a fairly painless procedure which can be used to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. It can be performed in spas, at home or in a doctors office. Microdermabrasion uses an abrasive substance to remove the dead layers of skin, helping to increase collagen growth to the damaged areas of the skin. This can work for minor scars and stretch marks, but is not recommended for deep scars. It is an inexpensive procedure, and there is minimal down time.
Surgical Removal
To remove the deepest skin scars, surgery may be needed. The doctor will cut the existing scar out and then re-close the skin using less tension. The skin is then able to heal with a smaller, less noticeable scar. This procedure is only for those scars that are deep and have not healed properly.
Scienta Derma Roller
The Derma Roller is small roller with tiny needles on the roller that is rolled over the skin, which makes the skin think that it has been damaged. The needles open the pores in your skin. The skin then releases collagen and elastin, which helps to promote new skin cell growth. The hand held device is used in the privacy of your own home. It is not recommended for the sensitive skin around the eyes or the neck, but it can help to remove stretch marks or scars that have developed on other places of the body.
There are many different ways to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. Some of these procedures are more invasive than others. Depending on the severity of your scars or stretch marks, these procedures may work for you. Talk to your doctor to determine which procedure is best for you.
