Can you use microdermabrasion for stretch marks?
Is microdermabrasion an option for getting rid of stretch marks?
Asked by: Anonymous
Answers (3)
Realistic expectations a must for those with stretch marks
Because stretch marks represent permanent damage to the skin and tissue, there are few modalities that offer any improvement.
Discoloration of the stretch marks is much easier to address depending on whether or not the color is red, brown, or the more mature hypopigmented stretch marks. On the other hand, attempting to improve the texture is very challenging.
Using lasers that stimulate collagen around the perimeter of the stretch marks is what we focus on. Using Class IV medical lasers to address the discoloration and texture of stretch marks will always offer more potential for improvement than a modalitiy such as microdermabrasion. When lasers are not appropriate or will not come close to meeting one's expectations, we recommend a consultation with a surgeon to determine if they are better served by an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
Setting realistic expectations from the beginning has benefited both ourselves as practitioners and, most importantly, the patient. Much time and money are expended on creams, ineffective treatments, and false hopes. Always do your research before seeking treatment.
Please refer to below link for a photo that depicts what non-ablative lasers may accomplish. Keep in mind that the goal is improvement.
Microdermabrasion is not likely to work on stretch marks
Stretch marks occur on the skin as a result of rapid stretching of the skin. The depth and discoloration associated with stretch marks appears to be fairly deep. It is highly unlikely that a superficial treatments such as micro-dermabrasion would have any significant effect on stretch marks. If you do have stretch marks, fractional resurfacing with a laser or skin tightening procedures are much more likely to give a satisfactory result.
I use the Starlux 500 with the Lux 1540 and the Deep IR to treat stretch marks and loose skin. To see some results of stretch mark treatments with this equipment, click on the link below.
Microdermabrasion isn't much help for stretch marks
Medical grade microdermabrasion does have its uses. However, it doesn’t improve stretch marks much, if at all.
Microdermabrasion involves removing the top layers of skin (epidermis) . This can be done with particle microdermabrasion, which is like getting a mild “sandblasting” of your skin. Although this sounds uncomfortable, in reality it’s a very simple procedure and well tolerated by my patients. The whole idea is to remove dead surface skin cells, which allows for improved moisturization of skin and an improved texture.
I usually combine microdermabrasion with chemical peels. As a result, more dead skin cells are removed on the surface. With stronger chemical peels, the dermis (the deeper layer) is stimulated to make collagen. More collagen means a thicker dermis. This can lead to more youthful appearing skin: When we are young, our dermis is thick with collagen, and the epidermis is thin. When we use microdermabrasion and chemical peels, we can reduce the epidermal thickness while building up the dermis. As a result, skin appears younger.
Microdermabrasion, however, is not a “miracle” treatment. It improves skin texture to a degree. I have found that laser skin resurfacing is much more effective in improving fine lines and wrinkles at rest.
And, of course the big question: What effect will microdermabrasion have on stretch marks?
The Answer: Very little.
Other treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light can improve the red appearance of new stretch marks and make them more “flesh-toned.” Laser Skin Resurfacing might decrease the width of the stretch marks. But ultimately even the best treatments for stretch marks tend to improve the problem in about 20-30% of patients at best. Do those sound like good odds to you? I wish this was not the case, but this is what I have found in practice.
By the way, for very wide stretch marks, some plastic surgeons may remove stretch marks surgically. The result is a scar where the stretch mark used to be. For some patients, this may be less noticeable.
Make sure to consult with an experienced medical doctor who performs treatments her- or himself when you’re ready for a cosmetic medicine treatment!
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