Stretch marks are a real source of self-consciousness. You do everything you can to hide those fine lines on your stomach, thighs or bottom… You’d love to fade them, and you’ve heard about microdermabrasion. To find out everything about this aesthetic medicine technique, including how it works, what a session involves, the precautions to take and how much it costs, read on!
What is microdermabrasion?
1- Microdermabrasion vs. peeling: what’s the difference?
Microdermabrasion (also known as controlled micro-peeling) is a cosmetic procedure that gently exfoliates the surface of the skin to clear away certain impurities. Similar to peeling, microdermabrasion is described as less abrasive. Why? Because while peeling uses an acidic chemical solution (chemical peel) or a rotating brush (mechanical peel) to “sand” the skin, microdermabrasion relies on the projection of microcrystals. The method is therefore based on mechanical exfoliation. The aim is much the same: to remove the outermost layer of the epidermis (the uppermost layer of the epithelium, if you want the full picture!), leaving the skin free of dead cells and impurities.
2- How microdermabrasion works
The principle behind microdermabrasion is straightforward: it involves high-intensity projection of exfoliating microcrystals onto the skin – a kind of pressurised exfoliation – followed by suction to remove dead skin debris. The microcrystals used are typically made from aluminium oxide (alumina), which is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with the skin. The exfoliation is mechanical, not chemical.
There is also a newer, next-generation technique: diamond-tip microdermabrasion. It has the advantage of being faster, treating the skin at a deeper level (though this means a longer healing time), and leaving no residue on the skin – since even after suction, a few microcrystal particles can sometimes remain following a standard session.
Microdermabrasion treatment is non-invasive, may cause mild discomfort, and can only be performed by a qualified medical professional (dermatologist, surgeon or aesthetic doctor).
When is microdermabrasion used?
Microdermabrasion is used to address a range of skin concerns:
- Treatment of early fine lines
- Fading of dark spots
- Enlarged pores
- Treatment of acne and acne scars
- Smoothing rough skin texture (particularly for very dry skin)
- Stretch marks
Microdermabrasion is thought to offer several benefits for the skin:
- Removing dead cells and impurities to encourage the cellular renewal process
- Stimulating the superficial layers of the skin
- Evening out skin tone and refining skin texture
- Gradually softening, in the course of the sessions, the grooves left by certain stretch marks
When it comes to stretch marks, all areas of the body can be affected. You can consider microdermabrasion for smaller areas (stretch marks on the shoulders or calves) as well as larger ones (stretch marks on the thighs, stomach or hips). The number of sessions will vary depending on the area and the appearance of the stretch marks, whether they are white, red or purple.
What happens during a session?
Each microdermabrasion session takes place in a medical setting.
First, the skin is prepared: the doctor examines the area, defines the treatment zone, then cleanses and disinfects the skin. If you are particularly sensitive, a numbing cream may be applied beforehand.
The microdermabrasion treatment then begins and can last between 30 minutes and one hour. The device used is a pressurised machine (for microcrystal projection microdermabrasion). It is generally quite powerful and operates at three intensity levels. Using the handpiece, the doctor moves in a zigzag pattern over the stretch marks to exfoliate the skin. This step is known as sandblasting. The stretch marks are treated until slight bleeding occurs. There’s no need to worry – this is perfectly normal: as the dead skin particles are removed, the epidermis is exposed. The doctor then suctions away the microcrystals and dead cells.
Finally, once the skin has been thoroughly cleansed, the doctor applies a healing solution and then a dressing. This should be kept on for at least 48 hours to protect the treated area.
Are there any side effects?
There are a few potential side effects associated with microdermabrasion for stretch marks. As with many dermatological treatments, you may experience localised skin irritation, redness in the treated area (which will subside quickly), as well as tightness and tingling.
When sessions are scheduled too close together, or if the treatment is not properly administered (incorrect machine settings), microdermabrasion can carry a risk of infection. It goes without saying that choosing the right practitioner is essential!
During a microdermabrasion stretch mark treatment, sun exposure is strongly discouraged. It can lead to swelling and dark spots (hyperpigmentation). If you’re considering this treatment, opt for the winter months, when sun exposure is less likely.
Finally, after each session, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines:
- If you touch the treated area, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly beforehand to prevent any risk of infection.
- Do not apply any cosmetic cream to the treated area. The skin is raw and cannot tolerate additional products, which could cause further irritation. The only product to use is the healing cream prescribed by your practitioner, for a period of 15 days to one month.
- Cleanse the treated area with pure water, preferably cold.
What about the duration and cost of microdermabrasion for stretch marks?
The length of a microdermabrasion treatment depends on the number and appearance of the stretch marks (width, depth), skin reactivity and the size of the area to be treated. You should still expect to need several sessions, roughly between 5 and 20 depending on the case. Each session should be spaced out (one to two months apart) to allow the skin sufficient time to regenerate. The overall treatment can therefore be quite lengthy.
As for the cost, it varies depending on the practitioner and the extent of the treatment. Expect to pay between €60 and €150 per session approximately.
Are there any contraindications to microdermabrasion for stretch marks?
As with any aesthetic treatment, microdermabrasion for stretch marks is not recommended for:
- People with unhealed burns or open wounds
- Those with inflammatory acne, rosacea, or an active skin condition (psoriasis, eczema, hives)
- People with diabetes
- People with contagious infections (such as herpes) or a weakened immune system (cancer, autoimmune disease).
- People with darker skin tones, who are at greater risk of hyperpigmentation
Are there any alternative methods?
If you’re hesitant about microdermabrasion (due to the time commitment, cost or the procedure itself) but would still like to fade your stretch marks, there are other ways to care for them. Used regularly, skincare products can help soften the appearance of stretch marks, whether recent or long-standing. Our Stretch Mark Pack is the perfect place to start! It brings together 3 complementary products for skin with stretch marks:
- The Stretch Mark Scrub gently exfoliates the skin for a smoother texture and a complexion free of dead cells. Its exfoliating micro-grains are of natural origin (apricot kernel and bamboo), and its nourishing agents (mango butter and wheat germ) care for the skin.
- The Stretch Mark Cream is suitable for all types of stretch marks: old and new, from growth, pregnancy or in men. Its natural formula, enriched with macadamia oil and cocoa butter, helps soften the creviced appearance of stretch marks and maintain skin elasticity.
- The Stretch Mark Care Oil is a blend of 6 natural plant oils (including avocado, jojoba and sesame) that nourish the skin. Used daily, it helps prevent the appearance of stretch marks and soften the appearance of existing ones.
The complete stretch marks routine, from shower to massage, during and after pregnancy
- Instructions for use
- Friendly advice
Frequently asked questions
Does microdermabrasion get rid of stretch marks?
No. It can soften their appearance over the course of several sessions, but it won’t erase them completely. The effect varies with the age, colour and depth of the stretch marks.
How many microdermabrasion sessions do you need for stretch marks?
You’ll usually need several, spaced one to two months apart to give the skin time to renew itself. The exact number depends on the area and the appearance of the stretch marks. Your doctor will assess this during the consultation.
Can you have microdermabrasion in the summer?
It’s best avoided. Treated skin is more sensitive to the sun and can develop dark spots. If you do have a session, protect the area carefully from the sun for several weeks afterwards.
Related articles
- Coconut oil and stretch marks: composition and use
- Cocoa Butter for Stretch Marks: Does It Work?
- Stretch marks on dark or mixed-race skin: myths and facts
Useful categories: Stretch Mark Care, Stretch Mark Solutions.
