Several MDs recently reported good results in treating stretch-marks with the Dermaroller (model MF-8 and MS-4). The skin surface becomes smooth again, and the scar tissue softens. We shall keep you informed about further progress.

Stretch marks are difficult to treat. Some lasers have been used with mixed success. The pulsed dye laser is useful if the stretch marks are still in the red phase . Other lasers and bleaching creams may help to diminish the brown color if the marks are dark. Topical tretinoin (Retin-A) cream and microdermabrasion have been shown to improve the overall appearance of str etch marks as well. Microdermabrasion is a technique that uses fine crystals to buff the top layers of the skin.

Stretch marks are scars that are caused when the skin is over-stretched during periods of rapid weight-gain such as adolescence and pregnancy. The middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis, contains elastic fibers of tissue that can stretch to a certain point - beyond which they lose their elasticity and break down. In these areas a type of scar tissue forms to strengthen the “weakened” area.

I noticed that you used to eat a lot of meatless products. Were you a vegetarian? [ Updated January 27, 2007 ] After the end of 2003, your physique didn't seem to change very much for about a year. I thought you wanted to add some muscle? What happened? [ Updated January 27, 2007 ] People who work out and lift weights are compensating. You deserved that hernia, and I hope you have a heart attack next. [ Updated January 27, 2007 ]

Many patients opt for plastic surgery, but we recommend you wait until you reach your ideal body weight before any plastic surgery.

Answer: Stretch marks are not an easy problem to treat. Unfortunately "old" stretch marks (older than six months) that have turned a silvery gray color are considered permanent. If they are less than six months old and are red or blue color they can sometimes be treated with lasers or Intense Pulsed Light. We would be happy to take a look at the areas of concern and give very realistic ideas of what the treatment possibilities are. Our consultations are always complimentary.

Stretch marks can be tattooed. Just be aware that this type of skin tends to be a little bit more sensitive and softer. The consequence of increased sensitivity is obvious, but pain is subjective and depends on your personal tolerance. As for the tissue being softer, make sure your tattoo artist is experienced with softer skin tissue as the techniques used are slightly different in order to avoid excessive trauma to the skin and possible scarring.

If the stretch marks are in the lower abdomen region, then a tummy tuck generally will get rid of them, however other stretch marks may not be removed. For an example, on the upper abdomen, stretch marks can be relocated further down, but they could become visually smoother and flatter. Spalding Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology | 120 S. Spalding Drive, Suite 315 | Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Prolonged improvement can be achieved through regular maintenance treatments with ReLume. Lighter skin types (types I - III) will typically benefit from monthly maintenance treatments; darker skin types (types IV - VI) may require less frequent maintenance treatments.

Yes. The Caviar Face Lightening Cream and the Beauty Lightening Milk are intended to fade blemishes, spots and marks. Within time, even old blemishes will disappear. Some real harsh blemishes may require the Skin Repairing Serum, a concentrated gel applied to severely darkened areas only.

Approximately 75 - 90% of pregnant women get stretch marks during pregnancy. They are most common during the last stages of pregnancy but prevention should be started early for optimum effectiveness. You can rest assured that all of the essential oils used in our StretchEasy Massage Oil are completely safe to use during pregnancy and will have only positive effects on the expecting-mom and unborn baby.