Women often complain about the stretchmarks that develop after pregnancy, especially in the lower stomach and hip areas. They are caused by the baby growing and pushing outward on the skin. Stretchmarks are scars to the skin that do not break the outer layer. They start in the deeper layers of the skin, the dermis, and leave the epidermis intact. No bleeding occurs, and you just see what appear to be “runs” in the skin similar to what happens with stockings.

There are no true cures for stretchmarks except for removing the skin upon which the stretchmarks appear. This is what abdominoplasty, or tummy tucks, do. There are, however, treatments that can help. When the stretchmarks are new and pink, it is easier to treat with retinoid creams and laser, as the scar has a blood supply that can be used to give a more effective treatment. Once they are silvery, they are harder to remove.

Men get stretchmarks from significant and rapid weight changes, as well as during puberty and with weight training in teens. Steroids, if taken to body build or even for illness, can cause them as well. Occasionally, men do need abdominoplasty, especially following massive weight loss.

At Yager Esthetics, we have had some success with microdermabrasion, Silk Peel , and combinations of skin creams. We recently filmed a report for television which will appear soon. Check our Facebook page for details.

I continue to research each new “cure”, and make sure whatever I offer actually works, and that my patients know what to realistically expect. If you have stretchmarks, there is hope.