Skin Treatments for the Body

Stretch Mark Reduction

Stretch Marks, known medically as Striae are lines or streaks on the skin, which can be pink, purple or white in colour (depending on their age), that occur when the inner skin layer is stretched thin and loses its elasticity. They commonly occur on the stomach, hips, thighs, back and breasts. Stretch marks are particularly common in pregnant women, especially during the latter half of pregnancy.

You may be concerned about these bright streaks on your skin, but stretch marks aren’t serious and fade over time. Treatments can fade the appearance of stretch marks.

Causes of stretch marks

Stretch marks seem to be caused, literally, by a stretching of the skin, coupled with an increase in cortisone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisone may weaken elastic fibers in the skin.

Pregnancy — Most pregnant women develop stretch marks by the end of their pregnancy. The physical stretching of the skin, along with hormonal factors, likely plays a role.

Weight gain — Stretch marks sometimes occur during substantial weight gain. Weightlifters also can develop stretch marks, particularly on the arms. Adolescents may notice stretch marks during growth spurts.

Medication use — Corticosteroid creams, lotions and pills, and chronic use of oral or systemic steroids can cause stretch marks.

Treatment Options:

During the consultation we can help you to choose the most appropriate treatment. The following options are among those available to help improve the appearance of stretch marks:

Laser Therapy — Nonablative laser therapy remodels underlying skin (dermis) by stimulating the growth of collagen and elastin. Pulsed dye laser therapy is most effective when stretch marks are new, but it may still be effective on older stretch marks. This type of treatment may alter skin color on darker skin tones.

Microdermabrasion — This type of treatment involves a hand-held device that blows crystals onto skin. These crystals gently abrade or “polish” the skin’s surface. Then, a vacuum tube removes the crystals and skin cells. Microdermabrasion gently removes the skin’s topmost layer, which may result in new skin growth that is more elastic. This therapy is an option for older stretch marks.

Dermaroller/INTRAcel

Medical Skin Needling or dermaroller therapy also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy and Micro-Needling is aimed at stimulating the body’s own collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Stretch Mark Reduction