Stretch marks are an extremely common reason that men and women find themselves seeking the help of a cosmetic professional. Physical changes in combination with a variety of other factors can lead to these lines and markings appearing on the skin. While weight and size fluctuations are a common source of stretch mark development, age, growth, and pregnancy can all be pointed to as potential factors leading to stretch marks as well. Stretch marks take various forms and ultimately, are scars along the skin. Where some individuals may suffer from stretch marks that are bright purple or red, others may notice nothing more than faded white lines across the abdomen, buttocks, breasts, stomach or thighs. Patients looking to diminish or eliminate the signs of stretch marks often do so to regain a sense of self and not to alleviate any medical risks. Because there’s no guarantee that stretch marks with fade with time, consulting a cosmetic professional is a great first step in taking control of a patient’s aesthetic preferences.
Topical Solutions for Treating Stretch Marks
Often, the first line of defense when attempting to reduce the appearance of minimal to moderately severe stretch marks is to try a topical solution. Creams, serums, and acids marketed to reduce these unsightly lines and marks are easily accessible as over the counter products in stores. Topical ointments are applied directly to the surface of the skin over the stretch marks and often produce positive results in the short-term. Unfortunately, individuals suffering from more severe stretch marks will often find that topical solutions are inefficient at creating any noticeable change and will need to take further steps to achieve the desired results when treating stretch marks.
Intense Pulsed Light Treatment Options
When it comes to seeking long-term solutions, many individuals suffering from severe stretch marks will turn to Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment options. This cosmetic procedure allows a certified cosmetic physician to introduce light waves underneath the skin using a handheld device. The waves provoke the body to respond naturally to the “wounds” it’s enduring at a cellular level and replace damaged skin cells at the stretch mark line with healthy, vibrant skin cells instead. Similarly, patients who elect IPL treatment options may do so in combination with microneedling which allows tiny puncture marks along the stretch mark to enhance the healing process of the body and encourages collagen and healthy skin cell development. Both methods often result in the diminished appearance of stretch marks.
Microneedling and Stretch Marks
Cosmetic physicians that recommend microneedling as a long-term treatment plan do so with the understanding that skin rejuvenation is key to diminishing the appearance of stretch marks over time. The beauty of this process lies in the fact that the treatment encourages the body’s natural response to healing, leading to firmer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin overall. Patients often enjoy the fact that microneedling is a convenient outpatient procedure that’s minimally invasive and comes with proven successful results. As cells continue to rejuvenate with each subsequent microneedling session, patients often see continued improvement in their appearance.
PRP for Stretch Marks
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is known to be a key ingredient in the body’s ability to heal, rejuvenate and produce healthy cells. When PRP therapy is combined with microneedling, patients with more severe cases of stretch marks can experience even more successful results.PRP therapy begins with a cosmetic physician drawing a patient’s blood sample and introducing it into a centrifuge. Here the blood is separated out into the PRP and then reinjected into the treatment site once the microneedling process has been completed. As the body responds to the microneedling punctures, the PRP works as an added boost of healing by encouraging collagen and elastin production in the targeted area.
Fractora for Stretch Marks
While many individuals find clusters of stretch marks on a small area of the body, those who struggle from stretch marks across larger patches of skin may benefit from Fractora as a treatment option. Fractora utilizes radiofrequency waves to treat more profound layers of skin using pulsing waves. As energy works to affect damaged cells below, the body begins its natural process of restoration.
Taking on Stretch Marks with Experience and Care
When you’re ready to take the next step in the fight against stretch marks, be sure to team up with the team at the St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center. The journey to change begins by scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Wright. In-depth conversation, a medical review and ample options for asking questions provide the background necessary for Dr. Wright to put a customized stretch mark treatment plan into place for every patient that walks through the door. Whether you’re looking to diminish newly developed stretch marks or can’t wait to eliminate the evidence of stretch marks you’ve struggled with for years, our team is here to make sure your experience is not only safe and successful but comfortable from start to finish. Contact us today for more information on the many cosmetic services our clinic provides.
