What Are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks, or striae, are common skin scarring, often appearing as silvery-white or purplish lines. These scars result from rapid stretching of the skin, typically caused by weight gain, pregnancy, puberty, or even rapid muscle growth. The skin’s dermis layer is responsible for maintaining its elasticity, and tears during these periods of growth lead to visible stretch marks. Although these marks may fade over time, they seldom disappear completely without treatment.
Causes and Appearance of Stretch Marks
Stretch marks can develop anywhere on the body, but they most frequently appear in areas where fat is stored, such as:
Abdomen (especially around the belly button)
Breasts
Upper arms and underarms
Thighs
Hips
Buttocks
Initially, stretch marks appear reddish or purple and may feel slightly raised. Over time, they fade to a lighter, silvery-white colour and become softer to the touch. This colour change marks the transition from new (striae rubrae) to older (striae alba) stretch marks, making them more challenging to treat effectively as they age.
Best Treatments for Stretch Marks at Skin Renewal
Treating stretch marks is complex; no single treatment offers a universal solution. At Skin Renewal, we understand that each case is unique. That's why we embrace combination treatments to address stretch marks from multiple angles, ensuring optimal results. Whether the marks are fresh and reddish or older and silvery, our doctor-led approach tailors treatments specifically for you.
Recommended Combination Treatments
Depending on the severity and age of your stretch marks, your treatment plan may include a combination of the following:
Carboxytherapy: This treatment involves injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) gas beneath the skin to stimulate blood flow, collagen production, and skin repair.
Laser Genesis: Using gentle laser energy, this non-invasive treatment boosts collagen production and helps improve skin texture.
Microneedling (Dermapen): This procedure creates micro-injuries in the skin, encouraging collagen production and natural healing.
Radiofrequency Needling: Delivers radiofrequency energy into the skin, promoting collagen synthesis and skin tightening.
Monopolar Radiofrequency: This treatment, which is used to tighten the skin and improve its texture, enhances collagen production for smoother skin.
Injectable Mesotherapy: Infuses a blend of vitamins, enzymes, and other nutrients into the skin to stimulate collagen production.
Endymed FSR: Combines radiofrequency and fractional skin resurfacing to rejuvenate the skin and enhance collagen levels.
Transdermal Mesotherapy: A needle-free method to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, boosting hydration and collagen.
Why Choose Skin Renewal?
At Skin Renewal, our team offers a doctor-led approach to stretch mark treatment, ensuring every patient receives personalised care. During your consultation, our doctors will assess the affected areas and recommend a tailored treatment plan based on the condition of your stretch marks. Combining therapies allows us to target stretch marks at multiple levels for more effective and longer-lasting results.
Our holistic approach to skin health means we don’t just address the surface but work on deeper layers to rebuild collagen and improve elasticity. We pride ourselves on offering cutting-edge technologies in a professional, doctor-led environment.
Combination Therapies for Optimal Results
At Skin Renewal, we’ve seen the best results when combining treatments such as Carboxytherapy, Laser Genesis, and Microneedling. For optimal outcomes, 6 to 8 treatments are typically recommended, spaced two weeks apart. Early intervention yields the best results, especially when stretch marks are still reddish or purple. However, even older, silvery marks can show significant improvement with our combination treatment protocols.
While stretch marks are harmless, they can affect your confidence and self-image. Skin Renewal is committed to helping you feel your best by offering a comprehensive, results-driven approach to treating stretch marks.