The removal of stretch marks is a tricky thing. Most experts agree that the best way to treat them is by preventing them. However, there are other alternatives which deal with skin that has already been affected by this type of scar tissue: laser surgery and cosmetic products to cover up those areas.

Laser Surgery for Stretch Marks

There are two types of laser surgery that are common when it comes to dealing with stretch marks. The first, pulsed-dye laser surgery, works best with new or red stretch marks. The second option is fractional laser treatment for older stretch marks that have already lost their color.

Pulsed-dye surgery helps control the redness and swelling that is inherent to new stretch marks. It can also help with the collagen and elastin production, which will obviously improve the look and feel of the skin. Once the stretch marks have turned white, this type of treatment has a minimal effect.

For white stretch marks, experts usually choose fractional laser treatments. In this case, small parts of the stretch marks are zapped with by a laser stimulating the construction of new epithelial cells and collagen. It has been reported that this sort of treatment for stretch marks also improves the look of the skin as well as the mature, white stretch marks.

Cosmetic Alternatives for Stretch Marks

Cosmetic products are another way to make stretch marks less noticeable. However, it is sometimes difficult to reach certain areas of your body without help. Also, the make-up can stain your clothes.

The best alternative seems to be spray-on tans or self tanning lotions. They both offer even coverage and help you elude harmful UV rays. Sun tanning is probably the worst thing you can do because a suntan will either irritate your existing stretch marks or not tan them at all. Preventing Stretch Marks

Prevention is still the main solution for stretch marks. By keeping your skin moisturized with natural skin care lotions, for example, it will be better able to handle the stretching of your body. Also remember, genetics plays an important role in the development of stretch marks.