Stretch marks or striae are caused by rapid stretching of the skin. Commonly seen after pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, or rapid growth during adolescence, stretch marks initially present itself as red or purple marks. They are in fact “scars” caused by over-stretching of the elastic middle layer of the skin known as the dermis. Over time these reddish stretch marks fade to leave silver or white streaks which may also feel crepey to touch.
Stretch marks treatment can provide some excellent benefits in terms of your physical health and self-worth as well as your emotional well-being.
Laser Treatment
One of the most exciting applications of fractional Erbium YAG laser is for stretch marks removal. A recent pilot study of 20 patients showed significant improvement in the appearance and texture of mature (white) stretch marks after 3 treatments when performed in moderate settings. Redness in the treated areas does seem to persist a little longer on the body than in the face, however, this fades in time. The fractional laser works by increasing the number of collagen and elastin fibres.
At My Bliss Clinic, we perform laser skin tightening by using Nd:YAG laser prior to the fractional Erbium YAG laser. A laser beam is passed under the skin to heat up collagen fibres inducing the formation of new collagen. The formation of new collagen helps the skin to contract. The laser energy can be seen as “kick-starting” a natural healing process that helps to stimulate fresh, healthy tissue, resulting in smoother skin. Patients report improvements greater than 50% in the appearance of their stretch marks.
RF Venus Sculpt
RF Venus Sculpt uses a magnetic pulse component that induces the release of growth factors required for the sprouting of new blood vessels and the rapid growth of skin cells. The radiofrequency component induces collagen and elastin production by creating controlled damage, triggering the skin’s healing process.
The intended result is a more vital, toned, and healthy-looking skin with improved elasticity and texture.
It is especially suitable for those with darker skin tone as unlike lasers, radiofrequency is “colour blind” and the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is minimal. Several sessions, average 8 to 10 weekly treatments will be required for optimal result.
For newer stretch marks that are purplish-red in colour, I recommend the RF Venus Sculpt treatment. Whereas for older stretch marks which are silvery-white in colour generally respond better with laser treatments.
