Stretch Marks
Stretch marks, medically referred to as striae, are a commonly seen problem. They can affect small or large areas of the body but most often occur on the thighs, hips, stomach, breasts, and arms. Both men and women can develop stretch marks. The textured marks can appear in shades of red, purple, brown or white, and they usually fade in colour with time. Even so, some stretch marks can be quite noticeable and some individuals feel self-conscious about them and want to conceal them.
How do stretch marks develop?
Stretch marks typically develop as a result of changes in body size, often due to weight gain or loss, pregnancy, or growth spurts. They can also occur after use of steroid tablets or creams. The marks occur when the elastic lower layers of skin “tear” as a result of the rapid change in size of the deeper body structures. Newly formed stretch marks are often more receptive to treatment than long-established marks, although both types can be improved with the latest techniques.
What treatment options can improve stretch marks?
Creams, lotions, and other topical products can be of some help. However, the most effective treatment for stretch marks remains lasers. At Dermatology Consulting we use some of the most advanced laser technologies available, which are selected for their proven record of improving the appearance of stretch marks.
Our consultant dermatologists will select one or more of the following devices based on your skin type plus the condition and colour of the stretch marks. A course of treatment is likely to be required and the best treatment plan for you can be discussed during your initial consultation.
- Pulse Dye Laser for redness
- Excel V+ Laser for redness
- Fraxel® Laser non ablative fractionated laser
- Fraxel Repair® or Ultrapulse Alpha (Fractionated CO2/Fractionated Ablative Lasers)
- Fotona SPDynamis (Piano mode and Smooth mode)
