Both women and men can suffer from stretch marks or striae, as they are known medically. They’re caused when the skin is stretched very quickly. While stretch marks do not pose any health risks, they can be a cosmetic concern for some people, affecting body confidence.
Stretch marks appear as long, reddish lines which may then turn white over time. They occur when your skin is stretched very quickly and the skin cells cannot grow as fast. The damage that can be seen is formed in the middle layer of the skin which is known as the dermis. While the stretching skin may not be painful, the stretch marks themselves are actually scars.
Stretch marks are usually more noticeable in people with darker skin because of the higher melanin content in their skin.
Many women will develop stretch marks during their pregnancy as a result of the rapid expansion of the skin during this time. Another group of people who are prone to stretch marks, are body builders if their muscles bulk up too quickly.
Once formed, stretch marks are difficult to eliminate entirely but there are still a number of effective treatments options available, to make them less noticeable.
Our Dermatologists have experience at using laser for stretch marks. Laser energy therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that uses focused beams of light to target and break down the scar tissue responsible for stretch marks. Lasers used in dermatology deliver a controlled wavelength of light, to heat up target structures such as stretch marks, but do not damage the surrounding tissue.
The heat and light from the laser will activate a healing process that will eventually lead to the growth of new collagen in the skin, which reduces the overall appearance of stretch marks in the treated area.
Ablative laser treatment is often used for laser stretch mark removal. It makes microscopic holes in the dermis or outer layer of your skin, so they can target damaged cells deep in your dermal layer. An ablative treatment such as with a Co2 laser will involve a longer healing period but will produce superior and longer-lasting results.
Non-ablative lasers are also used in treatment of stretch marks. They work by creating heat in the skin without injuring the surface. They are unable to penetrate as deeply as ablative lasers. A non-ablative laser will often be used to stimulate collagen production. In the clinic, we often use this in combination with another treatment to treat different skin complaints in one appointment.
This non invasive procedure uses electromagnetic energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture and appearance. While it is commonly used for facial rejuvenation, it can also be effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
During treatment a handheld device is used to deliver radiofrequency energy to the affected area. The energy is absorbed by the skin and causes the collagen fibres in the skin to contract and tighten, leading to a reduction in the appearance of stretch marks.
Radio frequency treatment is typically performed in a series of sessions, and most patients see improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks after just one or two sessions.
To learn more about the treatments we offer to improve the appearance of stretch marks or to book a consultation with Dr Haus, please telephone us on +44 20 7935 6358, send us an enquiry on the Contact Us Page or email appointments@drhausdermatology.com.
Recommended Treatments: Laser Skin Treatment and Ablative Radiofrequency
I am very pleased I went to Dr Haus for treatment, my skin looks and feels fantastic. The clinic is beautiful and the atmosphere is relaxing and reassuring. Dr Haus made me feel welcome and comfortable throughout my first visit and I look forward to returning. Highly recommended.
Hanne Malling
