Using laser ablation to treat stretch marks
Written by:
Dermatologist
Published: 29/01/2018
Edited by: Emily Lawrenson
Beautiful, flawless skin doesn't have to be a stretch! Leading London-based dermatologist Dr Firas Al-Niaimi performs many types of skin rejuvenation treatments, specialising specifically in the use of laser technology. Here he explains how skin rejuvenation techniques can help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Why do we get stretch marks?
Stretch marks affect the majority of the population at some point in their lives, particularly in women as a side effect of pregnancy. Other causes of stretch marks involve rapid weight gain, and also they can appear during puberty when we experience significant growth spurts over a short space of time.
Stretch marks appear as long and thin vein-like marks that fade over time, first appearing as a reddish-purple colour and progressing to more of a silvery-white hue. Most often, stretch marks occur in areas where fat is stored, such as the tummy, buttocks, thighs and breasts, although they can affect almost all areas of the body. Over-the-counter creams and oils never truly deliver on the results they promise when it comes to treating stretch marks.
CO2 and non-ablative laser treatment for stretch marks
Although it may seem we are stuck with them for a lifetime, stretch marks can sometimes fade over time, and advanced laser treatment demonstrates remarkable results in speeding up this process.
Both ablative and non-ablative laser treatment is available. The best suited treatment for you will depend on the severity of your stretch marks. Ablative treatment is a more than fitting choice for the treatment of more severe stretch marks, as the highly precise laser technology works by removing the outer skin layers to reveal smoother skin beneath. On the other hand, mild stretch marks will benefit more from non-ablative treatment whereby the laser works to stimulate the production of new and healthy collagen to repair the existing damage.