Stretch marks are one of women's biggest concerns when it comes to changes in appearance. They arise from a number of reasons, including, but not limited to heredity, obesity, pregnancy, and sudden growth spurts.

Stretch marks appear in various parts of the body, the most common of which are the upper thighs, the waist, the buttocks, under the arms, the chest, and the stomach.

Regardless of the cause, however, probably the most important question to you is still, "How do I get rid of stretch marks?" There are many ways to improve the appearance of stretch marks, but once you already have them, it could be quite difficult to fully get rid of them unless you undergo laser surgery.

Before you contemplate splurging your hard-earned cash on the latest, most expensive creams or the newest advances in surgical procedures, there are some easy and helpful ways you can do in the comfort of your own home to treat stretch marks.

If your stretch marks are not too faded or are relatively new, try using a loofah or body brush while bathing or showering and gently scrub the affected areas. Doing so would loosen and remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the stretch marks, leaving the new skin in your natural color beneath it.

There are also countless oils and creams available over the counter which you could try. In some cases, these could help reduce the severity of your stretch marks. Remember though, that if you are expecting, it would be wise to ask your physician prior to starting the use of any oils and creams to get rid of stretch marks.

You may also opt to see your dermatologist to get an appropriate prescription cream such as Retin-A. A significant decrease in the size of stretch marks has been observed in patients who have participated in Retin-A studies.

However, Retin-A should not be used to get rid of stretch marks by pregnant or lactating women, as there have not been a sufficient number of studies done to prove it could not adversely affect an unborn child.

Laser surgery is by far the most definitive and permanent means of to get rid of stretch marks. Keep in mind that the type of laser to be used would largely depend on the coloration of your stretch marks.

A recent discovery also involves a surgical laser treatment which can render the stretch marks, as well as your skin, more pliable. It's comforting to know that these new laser surgeries are almost, if not totally, painless. However, it is unfortunate that most insurance companies do not cover such surgeries as they are classified as of the cosmetic type - that is, surgery which is not necessarily essential to the survival and good health of a person.

This means that you must be ready to devote a substantial portion of your budget to this type of surgery. However, if you're quite sure that it will extremely boost your confidence, then it could actually be money well spent.