Stretch marks: how to reduce their appearance?
Stretch marks are slightly lighter bands of skin that can streak across the stomach, arms, or thighs. Although it is estimated that around 80% of women may have them, they are not the only ones affected: on average, about 10% of teenagers may develop them during growth (compared to 25% of teenage girls).
In reality, there are various factors that can contribute to their appearance; but despite their common nature, stretch marks can be perceived as unattractive by those who have them. The treatment solutions at Victoria Park Medispa include microneedling (DP4 microneedling), Halo laser treatment, and Morpheus8 treatment. These treatments are reliable and safe, helping to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and allowing patients to regain their confidence.
What can cause stretch marks?
When the deep layer of the skin suddenly tears, grooves can appear, sometimes tinted red or purple. Over time, their color fades to match the natural tone of the surrounding skin.
Among the most affected areas of the body, stretch marks can be found on the thighs, breasts, or buttocks. The stomach and arms can also be affected. Although this phenomenon can be natural, it can also create insecurities, especially when the stretch marks are very visible. Several factors can cause stretch marks. Significant weight gain or loss is among the possible reasons. Genetics can also sometimes be a factor.
We differentiate between classic stretch marks and those caused by a health issue. Classic stretch marks can appear during periods of hormonal change, such as adolescence or pregnancy. During these periods, the skin can lose its flexibility and elasticity. Therefore, when it is stretched, it can also tear more easily.
Stretch marks related to a health issue can appear when a patient undergoes prolonged corticosteroid treatment, whether it is an oral medication or a cream applied to the skin. The latter case is often linked to an abnormally high production of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. In excessive amounts, cortisol leads to a decrease in collagen production, which reduces skin elasticity and makes it more vulnerable to stretch marks.
There are no natural solutions to completely get rid of stretch marks. It is possible to reduce their appearance, but not to make them disappear entirely. It is sometimes recommended to stay well hydrated to prevent their formation; but even though this helps maintain the flexibility of the upper layers of the skin, the effectiveness of this advice has not been proven.
Those who wish to visibly improve the appearance of their skin can consult one of the professionals at Victoria Park Medispa to find an effective solution.
Different types of stretch marks
There are stretch marks considered normal: those related to skin stretching during weight gain or pregnancy. The latter become whitish over time.
If the stretch marks are red or purple, it may indicate the presence of skin inflammation following sudden stretching. But it can also sometimes be a sign of a pathology related to a high level of corticosteroids in the body (known as Cushing’s syndrome).
Discover liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure offered at Victoria Park Medispa to remove localized fat resistant to diet and exercise.
- Modern techniques
- Personalized consultation
- Optimized post-operative care
- Secured procedure
- Firmer and more toned silhouette
- Reduction of localized cellulite
- Visible transformation
Stretch marks: available treatments
Several types of medical-aesthetic treatments can be offered to those who wish to reduce the appearance of their stretch marks. The first, Morpheus8 treatment, is ideal for patients who want to reshape their body: this therapy combines the effects of microneedling with those of radiofrequency.
Simply put, it is a treatment that, with the help of tiny needles penetrating to a certain depth under the skin, stimulates collagen and elastin production. This process prompts the body to generate new skin tissue, more flexible and smooth, to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and even out the skin’s appearance. The second treatment option is Halo laser therapy. This system smooths the skin by applying a laser to the damaged skin. The laser heats the cells that make up the stretch mark, and the body gradually eliminates them. Finally, with DP4 microneedling treatment, new cells are produced during the skin’s healing process. When healing is complete, the skin appears smoother and firmer than before.
MORPHEUS8™ INMODE MICRONEEDLING
Visibly improve the quality of your skin with Inmode’s Morpheus8, a treatment that combines the benefits of microneedling and radiofrequency.
HALO LASER
Give new life to your skin by improving its elasticity, eliminating fine lines and signs of aging with Halo laser treatment.
MICRONEEDLING DP4™
Reduce the appearance of wrinkles, stretch marks, and scars with DP4 microneedling, a technology that stimulates skin cell regeneration.
Stretch mark treatment: some tips
First and foremost, it is essential for anyone wishing to benefit from one of the treatments at Victoria Park Medispa to meet with the professional responsible for the treatment. This consultation is an opportunity for the patient to ask any questions they may have. For the aesthetic professional, it is the time to gather information about the patient’s condition, understand their goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. The patient may also have recommendations to follow to prepare for the treatment, such as stopping the application of a cream, for example. On the day of the appointment, the professional may start by applying a numbing cream to the patient’s skin to make the session more comfortable.
Generally, after laser treatments, expect the skin to be red for around 3 to 7 days. The skin may also be sensitive, with a sensation similar to sunburn. During healing, it is important to protect the skin from the sun and to exfoliate on a date scheduled by the healthcare professional. Several sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired result. To determine the number of visits and to ensure proper healing, a follow-up appointment is scheduled.
In summary
Stretch marks are caused by a rupture of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, often due to rapid weight gain or loss, pregnancy, accelerated growth during adolescence, or prolonged corticosteroid treatments. These changes cause the appearance of red or purple lines that fade to white over time.
There are two main types of stretch marks. Red or purple stretch marks indicate active inflammation and are more recent, while white stretch marks are older marks where the inflammation has subsided. The former are often easier to treat than the latter.
Médispa offers advanced solutions such as Morpheus8, a technology combining microneedling and radiofrequency to stimulate collagen and regenerate the skin. The Halo laser is another option that heats the cells of stretch marks to promote their natural elimination. DP4 microneedling is also used to induce the production of new skin cells and improve skin texture.
The number of sessions depends on the severity, extent, and age of the stretch marks. Generally, a series of three to six sessions is needed to achieve visible and lasting results. Each patient benefits from a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
Stretch marks, skin spots, wrinkles: reducing skin imperfections in a medical-aesthetic clinic
Beyond reducing the appearance of stretch marks, the treatments available at the Victoria Park Medispa medical-aesthetic clinic can help patients achieve younger, smoother skin. It is indeed possible to opt for skin rejuvenation treatments that help reduce wrinkles and fine lines. At early stages of skin aging, for example, hyaluronic acid injections can improve deep hydration and smooth out the first lines that appear on the surface.
Deeper expression lines can benefit from Botox injections, which are an effective way to relax the muscles responsible for them. Finally, for those concerned about pigmentation spots or skin growths like skin tags, the fractional laser used for stretch mark treatment can be an excellent solution. By destroying the cells that create these features, the laser stimulates the body’s natural healing process, producing new, smooth, and even skin tissue.
Facial care
Explore the best facial care to improve the appearance and health of your skin with safe and innovative techniques.
Decollete aesthetics
Discover aesthetic treatments for the neck and décolleté to improve the elasticity and texture of your skin.
Liposculpture
Victoria Park Medispa offers liposculpture, a surgery to reshape the body for a balanced and harmonious silhouette.
Women’s health
Every stage of life can impact women’s health. Discover the various vaginal conditions and their treatments offered at Victoria Park Medispa.