Unsightly scars such as stretch marks are a problem for many women and a lot would try just about anything to get rid of them. But how do they form in the first place? These are formed due to the excessive stretching of the skin during times of rapid growth. This can either occur during puberty or pregnancy when the body undergoes rapid and extreme changes.

The skin is an elastic tissue capable of stretching and relaxing in order to accommodate the various changes that are happening with the human body. It relies on collagen to provide support whenever the skin needs to stretch. But when the collagen stores are depleted and the skin is forced to stretch beyond its normal capacity, this will result in tearing of the underlying skin which will eventually become stretch marks.

Removal can be done through various methods. The cheaper methods consist mostly of using creams to reduce the color so that it becomes less visible. Creams can either be artificial creams that contain chemicals proven to reduce the appearance of visible scars. Or it can be made of natural ingredients such as cocoa butter or aloe vera, which are generally regarded as effective means of eliminating those unwanted marks.

Dermabrasion is another option if you don't trust removal creams to work. This procedure works by scraping off the outermost layer of the epidermis so that overlying scars will be removed. This is effective in removing all kinds of scars while helping lighten the skin as well. This costs a lot more than using creams and will leave your skin a bit sensitive for a few months while it regenerates a new layer.

Laser surgery on the other hand, is known to be very effective but very expensive as well. It uses concentrated light to pierce the dermis of the skin and burns the scars that are left behind. Once the scars are removed, new cells will then start to form to replace the lost tissue.

Stretch marks are a problem that almost all people have. Prevention can be done by supplying the skin with enough collagen and elastin so that it can withstand excessive stretching. For existing stretch marks, elimination can be done through several techniques depending on what may be suitable for your pocket.