Stretch marks affect many people of all different ages although they are most commonly associated with pregnant women. For those that have these marks on their body, it can be extremely detrimental to their self-confidence and body image, causing them to search for a resolution.

How Microdermabrasion Works For Stretch Marks

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive technique used to remove the very top layer of skin called the Stratum Corneum. This is the layer of skin which obstructs foreign objects from reaching the deeper skin levels. In the past, movie stars have opted for the treatment in facials, over more invasive cosmetic surgery or chemical face peels.

Using oxide crystals, microdermabrasion is an extreme form of exfoliation. The crystals are blown across the surface of the skin, peeling off the top layer of dead skin cells. All used skin crystals and skin cells are vacuumed up and disposed of by the same hand held tool. When used on stretch marks, the treatment works to even out the contours of the skin in the affected area in addition to stimulating the growth of new tissue. This all works to significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Currently the treatments are being used to reduce stretch marks as well and are often thought of as the middle ground between stretch mark creams and surgery. This is because the procedure is brusquer on the stretch marks than creams whilst maintaining a more confined approach to the problem than surgery.

The nature of the procedure means it can be used on all skin types with and whilst still being effective on even the most stubborn of stretch marks. This safe and impressive treatment is so painless that patients are able to continue their daily routine with no special care immediately after each treatment.

Disadvantages

Many people are astounded at the brilliant results they receive from this exfoliating peel. However patients must not expect complete eradication of stretch marks. This is because stretch marks originate in the dermis or middle layer of the skin and microdermabrasion does not treat this layer.

Whilst this information should be kept in mind, it must also be noted that no other treatment for stretch marks penetrates to the dermis layer either. This means that microdermabrasion for stretch marks should not be discredited for results that are less than 100%.

Another factor that must be taken into consideration is the cost of the overall process. Microdermabrasion stretch marks treatments often occur in 30 minute sittings, spanning a 6 month period in most cases, depending on the severity of the stretch marks. The cost of each sitting is dependent on the area, and the individual aesthetician who is performing the procedure. Patients should expect to pay in the region of at least $1200 for a 6 month course.

Where to Go for Microdermabrasion

There are 2 options when considering where to go to receive microdermabrasion stretch marks treatment:

• With a specialist in a skin care studio/doctors surgery – When choosing a specialist it is important to thoroughly check their background. As with everything in life, there are good specialists and bad ones. A consultation with the chosen professional will decide whether microdermabrasion is the best form of action to take for the patient, taking into account the severity of the marks and the patient’s personal goals.
• At home – A far cheaper option than going to a clinic is to purchase a microdermabrasion home kit. Again, some kits are better than others so the decision of which one to purchase should not be taken lightly. As with the clinic treatment, severity of the stretch marks must be taken into consideration when using a home kit to ensure the right depth of skin is removed in the process. Too much could damage the fresh skin below and cause complications which will warrant a trip to a specialist anyway.

Does it Really Work?

There are professionals who will say that because microdermabrasion works on the upper layer of the skin, that it is not a truly effective way to diminish stretch marks. Whilst this may be scientifically logical, the success stories seem to be happily illogical.

The best success documented tends to be from a combined use of microdermabrasion and stretch mark creams. It is thought that on their own, stretch mark creams find it difficult to penetrate the stratum corneum layer of the skin and access the dermis layer beneath. As microdermabrasion removes this natural barrier, stretch mark creams are free to make a more concerted effort in reaching the targeted layer.