Stretch Mark Removal
It is estimated that approximately 70-80% of women who have given birth have suffered stretch marks. Stretch marks also are prevalent in teenage girls when going through rapid growth spurts and in people who undergo a rapid increase in body weight. Structurally, stretch marks are tears in the deeper layer of the skin called the dermis. As skin stretches the deeper layer sheers creating a thinner area while the top layer of skin (the epidermis) stays intact. This results in visible lines with surface and texture irregularities and different color hue. The changes are usually permanent and improve very little with time. Stretch marks typically occur around areas where weight gain is the most prominent such as the abdomen, breasts, and thighs. Over time these unsightly marks can fade from red and purple to white but they will never completely disappear.
Creams and topical ointments may soften the surrounding skin but they will not improve the actual appearance of the stretch marks.
Stretch Mark Removal Methods
We offer different methods of treatment alone or in combination depending on the age of the stretch marks and their severity. In general, the sooner the stretch marks are treated after they occur the better the final results.
Fractional CO2 laser
The Fractional CO2 laser is most commonly used for skin resurfacing of the face but recently has been shown to cause great improvement in stretch marks. It makes small micropunctures in the skin in a grid like pattern leaving bridges of healthy skin in between. This not only proves to be a less invasive procedure with faster recovery times, but stimulates collagen production and tightens the skin. This in turn causes the stretch marks to contract and become smaller. Optimal results are usually seen after 2 to 3 treatments spaced 3 to 6 months apart. The procedure takes approximately one hour depending on the area being treated.Through the use of a topical anesthetic, side affects like mild discomfort can be allayed. A CO2 fractional laser treatment allows up to a 75% reduction in noticeable stretch marks just after a few treatments. For pregnant women, it is recommended to get laser stretch mark removal treatments as soon as possible after their delivery. The sooner the stretch marks are treated after their appearance, the better.
What’s the healing time for CO2 laser for stretch marks?
Healing time is 2-4 days. During healing time there will be redness and peeling of the treated area. It is recommended to avoid sun on the treated area for 1-2 weeks.
How many CO2 laser treatments are needed for stretch marks?
Fractional CO2 laser is always done in a series of 2-3 treatments spaced 3 to 6 months apart. The number of treatments needed depends on the depth and duration of the stretch marks.
Can fractional CO2 laser be combined with other treatments?
CO2 laser could be combined with tretinoin and HIFU treatment. Laser treatments are typically 4 weeks apart. Tretinoin could be used between treatments and discontinued 4 -5 days prior.
Does fractional CO2 laser hurt?
The laser light feels warm or prickly but not painful. The preparation before treatment involves application of a topical numbing cream for an hour and oral medication such as Ibuprofen. A cool air blower is used during treatment to enhance patient comfort.
High Intensive Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
High Intensive Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is one of the world’s best stretch mark treatment methods. HIFU procedure by passes the surface of the skin, and delivers targeted energy specifically into the deep, structural tissues and muscles where collagen lives. By stimulating the deep structural support layers of the skin, a natural, regenerative response is initiated, stimulating the growth of new collagen, which lifts and tightens the skin over time. In this way, the effect is ideal naturally for the stretch marks which is pulled off by the dermis elastic fibers. Because ultrasound technology actually works non-invasively from the inside-out, results build gradually over 2-3 months, and can continue to improve up to 6 months after the procedure.
How long does the procedure last?
Stretch mark removal treatments take between half an hour and 2 hours, depending on the size and nature of the area being treated.
How many treatments will I need?
Depending on your skin, the nature of your stretch marks, for most procedures we normally recommend a course of minimum 2-3 sessions for best results. We really can tailor our treatments to you.
How long do the results last?
You can expect long-lasting results from your stretch mark treatment, though this will vary depending on your lifestyle, age and skin condition.
Am I a suitable candidate?
An ideal candidate will have fresh stretch marks which will be easier to manage, but mature stretch marks are also treatable. It is best to treat them when they are relatively new, in order to effectively reduce them. Older stretchmarks usually require a more intense procedure, and may take more sessions to achieve results. It is not advisable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding undergo any cosmetic procedures. While there is no clinical data that shows treatment to be detrimental to the patient or the baby, we always err on the side of caution.
Stretch Mark Removal Cream: Tretinoin
Tretinoin Cream (Retin A or Renova) helps to stimulate new collagen making the striae less prominent. There are small scientific studies on stretch mark removal creams that support its effectiveness. It works best on new stretch marks, present a few months or less, that are still red in color. It can cause dry skin, so use a moisturizer after application. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breast feeding.
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