Peeling and stretch marks: how it works, duration and cost

Affecting the superficial cells of the skin, stretch marks appear as purplish, pink or white streaks on the surface of the epidermis. They are a type of scar that forms in specific areas when the skin stretches too quickly. This can happen during growth spurts, rapid weight gain or pregnancy, for example.

Considered unsightly by many, stretch marks are something a lot of people would like to see less of. There are various techniques that address them, including peeling. This abrasive method aims to soften the look of visible skin imperfections. Several types of treatment are available, depending on the area to be addressed. Below, we look at how they differ, how long they take, what they cost, and what to bear in mind if you are considering a product from the chemist or one to use at home.

What is a peeling treatment?

Derived from the verb to peel, peeling is used to exfoliate the skin and leave it looking more radiant and even. The technique is intended to encourage the production of collagen and elastin fibres. Exfoliation removes the outer layer of the epidermis, and sometimes part of the dermis, taking away damaged cells so that new ones can take their place. These treatments can theoretically be performed on any part of the body. The most commonly treated areas are the face (particularly for wrinkles and melasma) as well as the stomach, arms, thighs and buttocks, which are the areas most prone to stretch marks.

Two main aesthetic techniques fall under this category: mechanical peeling and chemical peeling.

Mechanical peeling

Also known as “dermabrasion”, this technique involves sanding down the skin using a slightly abrasive rotating brush, with the aim of encouraging it to rebuild collagen fibres. More intensive than a standard scrub, this procedure is primarily aesthetic, targeting skin imperfections and blemishes. Mildly uncomfortable, the treatment initially causes redness and swelling. It is performed under local anaesthesia.

Chemical peeling

The most widely used method, chemical treatment is divided into three levels, each tailored to the depth of the skin damage. A chemical peel involves applying an acidic solution to the skin for a few minutes to break down dead cells, then removing it to trigger the production of new cells through controlled exfoliation.

The solution used contains a low concentration of fruit acids for gentle treatments, glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid for medium-depth and deeper procedures. The chemical reaction destroys the upper layers of the skin, allowing it to regenerate.

Chemical peeling is primarily intended for people with significant skin concerns. As it acts deeply on both the epidermis and dermis, this type of peeling must only be performed by a qualified medical professional.

This treatment requires skin preparation several weeks before the session. This involves applying a mildly exfoliating cream designed to limit the risk of post-treatment pigmentation.

The burning sensation and aftereffects (crusting, itching, intense peeling) make this option quite uncomfortable. What’s more, a minimum of six sessions is typically recommended. This chemical protocol is the most demanding, the longest and the most costly, and it is also the one that goes deepest into the skin.

Why is peeling offered for stretch marks?

Since stretch marks are superficial scars whose appearance can be softened, peeling offers an alternative or complementary approach to other treatments. It can be performed on various areas of the body and at different stages of scar development. It does, however, require several sessions.

An alternative solution

Creams, oils, lotions and laser treatments are all aesthetic options for stretch marks. LED photobiomodulation and abdominoplasty can also be added to this list. Peeling is yet another option. A dermatologist will recommend one approach over another based on the size of the area to be treated, skin quality and the patient’s overall health.

A medical treatment

The use of corrosive products on the skin requires great care, and choosing the right practitioner is essential when undergoing a chemical peel. The intensity of the treatment is adapted according to the location, depth and age of the stretch marks. These factors also help determine how many sessions are recommended.

Treatment duration

Each session lasts an average of 30 minutes. Between 4 and 6 treatments spaced at least two weeks apart are required. How long the benefits last varies from one technique to another. As chemical procedures can be particularly uncomfortable, the dermatologist may treat small areas at a time to allow the skin to recover between sessions. This precaution naturally extends the overall duration of the treatment course.

Cost of peeling treatments

The price of a treatment varies depending on the technique used, the depth of the stretch marks and the total number of sessions required.
For a mechanical treatment, a single session costs at least €60. For a light chemical peel, expect to pay a minimum of €80 per session. Medium and deep treatments range from €150 to €800. Pre- and post-treatment costs (creams, dressings, etc.) should also be factored in.

Stretch mark peels from the chemist or at home: what’s the difference?

The peels described above are carried out by a practitioner, who adjusts the strength of the treatment to the area, depth and age of the stretch marks. An exfoliating product bought from a chemist or used at home is therefore not comparable to these in-clinic procedures.

Before applying an acid-based product at home, ask your pharmacist or dermatologist for advice, especially if you have sensitive skin. A scrub or brush used gently can also have a place in a regular skincare routine.

The Cellublue anti-stretch mark routine

All these products are designed to be used together as part of a daily beauty routine, to care for your skin and existing stretch marks. They are suitable for all skin types. The scrub and brush gently exfoliate, the oil is applied to the skin, and the cream completes the routine.

Related articles

• Microdermabrasion for Stretch Marks: Does It Work?
• Cosmetic surgery for stretch marks: the different procedures available
• Snail slime: a natural treatment for stretch marks

Useful categories: Stretch Mark Tips, Stretch Marks.