Is Removing Stretch Marks Possible?

Unfortunately, the reality is that most stretch marks can't be removed once they've formed - depressing, I know, but true! Now, notice I said "most" stretch marks. Stretch marks in their early stages can often be treated quite successfully using a pulsed dye laser treatment. However, there are many stretch mark treatments which have proved successful in reducing the appearance of stretch marks, even to the point where the stretch mark is only visible under close scrutiny.

Older stretchmarks, which show both whitening of the skin and thinning of the skin, don't respond as well to this form of laser treatment. This is often successful in bringing the color of the stretch mark closer to the natural skin color.

I would suggest that if you have stretch marks you want to improve the appearance of, start off with the milder treatments, and if the results you experience aren't to your liking, then consider visiting a dermatologist or plastic surgeon about your needs.

The best case I've ever seen of stretch mark removal came from abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) where the skin was removed and thus tightened. What about over the counter remedies? There are numerous products out there that claim to have an effect on stretch marks. If you want more information about the formation of stretch marks and their treatment, visit Stretch Marks where you can sign up for a free email course.
However, I've seen promising results from several other treatments, which resulted in the fading and diminishing of the appearance of stretch marks. Of course, if you are a vegetarian or opposed to animal testing, then this remedy probably isn't one you're going to want to try.

So what can you expect from any stretch mark treatments? Firstly, I'd suggest that you don't expect miracles. There are stretch marks which can be removed, but it requires surgery. What the laser actually does, is to emit short powerful pulses of UV light, which stimulate the pigment-producing cells of the skin to make melanin. In the case of people who have lost large amounts of weight, or who after pregnancy have lots of loose skin, surgical removal of that skin (often containing stretch marks) is possible.