Microdermabrasion for Stretch Marks

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that is used to rejuvenate the skin. It has been used since long for giving people a refreshed and younger looking skin. However, the use of microdermabrasion for stretch marks is recently gaining a great deal of attention.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a skin procedure used to remove the dead skin cells from the outermost layer of the skin. It is a non chemical method involving mechanical exfoliation. The removal of the outer dead skin cells promotes regeneration of skin cells in the treated areas with an improved texture and appearance. The procedure involves spraying of small crystals like that of aluminum oxide on the surface of the skin by using a pen like device. Baking soda, salt or corn cob granules also may be sprayed. Simultaneously, suction is used to remove the dead skin cells and the crystals of aluminum oxide away from the skin. The force of the spray as well as the suction can be adjusted, according to the severity of the stretch marks. A stronger force may be required for a deeper penetration of the epidermis. New and healthier looking skin grows in the treated areas to replace the scarred skin tissue. One session lasts for about 30 minutes or so. The scars and the wrinkles get smaller with successive sessions. The number of sessions required for effective treatment depend on the severity of the marks. There should be an interval of about 2 to 3 weeks between the sessions.

Reducing Stretch Marks with Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion works best on superficial scars, small wrinkles and fine lines. However, many people reported great success with getting their stretch marks treated using microdermabrasion. Stretch marks are long, fragmented scars that are sunken deep into the skin. The collagen and elastin present in the dermis break down and find it difficult to return to their normal structures, thus leaving a stretch mark or scar. Even though, the actual scar is present deep down in the dermis, the epidermis also gets stretched and becomes translucent. It deals with removing dead cells from the topmost layer of the skin, and is not designed for the treatment of stretch marks. However, it has positive effects on healing the damage caused to the epidermal tissue by the stretch marks. Although, the stretch marks do not disappear completely, they fade and become lighter.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Is microdermabrasion good for your skin? Does it have any side effects? I'm sure these questions must be lurking in your mind. The best way to answer them would be to list some of the benefits of this treatment method.

1. This skin treatment option does not involve use of any chemicals. It is safe for all those people who are allergic to certain chemical compounds.
2. The procedure does not have any side effects. There is no redness, peeling or irritation of the skin after it is performed.
3. It promotes the growth of new skin tissue giving a healthy looking skin. After continuous treatment, your stretch marks will almost disappear.
4. There is no surgical procedure associated with microdermabrasion.
5. It is not a time-consuming process. Each session takes just about half an hour or so.
6. The whole process is noninvasive and does not require any puncturing of the skin. You can carry out all your normal, daily activities after the treatment without having to stick to any particular diet or medication.

The cost may be influenced by a lot of factors, like the city or country where you are getting it done, how serious your skin condition is, and also on the number of sessions you may require. It is always better to consult a dermatologist before going for this procedure.