Stretch marks are streak-like, narrow lines that appear on your skin, usually on the abdomen, breasts, hips, or buttocks. They often show up during pregnancy, especially during the last trimester or extreme weight loss. According to the NHS, stretch marks can affect 8 out of 10 women during pregnancy. It happens when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. While they’re not harmful or painful, some people don’t like how they make their skin look. This is where stretch marks reduction treatment comes into the picture.
How To Identify Stretch Marks
- Stretch marks can look different depending on factors like how long you’ve had them, where they are on your body and your skin type.
- They can appear as indented streaks, have various colours like pink, red, or purple, and cover large areas.
- Pregnancy is common for stretch marks to appear, and they often fade but might not entirely go away.
- In rare cases, stretch marks can cover larger areas due to factors like using corticosteroid medications or having a condition like Cushing syndrome.
Causes Of Stretch Marks
It forms when the skin stretches, and their severity is influenced by factors such as
- Genetics
- Stress on the skin
- Cortisol hormone
- Being female
- Having a family history of stretch marks
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight changes
Why You Should Take Stretch Marks Reduction Treatment?
Some people may feel self-conscious about stretch marks, although such marks do not pose any health risks. It helps to boost their confidence or feel more comfortable in their skin. It’s all about personal preference and how one feels about their body. If someone embraces their stretch marks, that’s fantastic, too! The most important thing is to feel good about yourself, whether that involves treatments or self-love. If you choose to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, we at Welona are happy to help!
Top Stretch Marks Reduction Treatment
When clinically addressing stretch marks, various methods are employed to reduce their visibility or remove them altogether. These clinical approaches include multiple options. Each method has mechanisms and considerations to enhance the skin’s appearance and boost confidence. Let’s delve into some of the specific stretch marks reduction treatments by Welona.
Chemical Peel
A chemical peel involves applying a chemical agent to the skin, facilitating the exfoliation of skin cells. It offers some reduction in the appearance of stretch marks. Chemical peels reduce skin discolouration and lighten stretch marks by limiting melanin formation in skin cells. The procedure requires multiple sessions, with visible changes noticeable after the third or fourth session. However, it may not yield convincing results for old stretch marks due to decreased blood supply.
Microdermabrasion
It is a painless procedure targeting the upper skin layer to reduce the visibility of white stretch marks. Microdermabrasion stimulates collagen and elastin fibres, promoting skin tightening. Recovery typically takes 24 hours, with some redness. Multiple sessions are needed, and results may vary based on the severity of stretch marks.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is effective for removing old stretch marks. It involves focused lasers penetrating the skin, triggering skin cell regeneration and faster healing of the affected area. The Fractional CO2 laser, an excellent option for acne scar treatment, is also particularly effective in stretch marks, targeting microscopic skin areas to stimulate collagen formation. Multiple sessions might be required for optimal results, with visible improvements after 8-12 weeks. Side effects may include scaling, peeling, swelling, and post-procedure colour changes.
Microneedling
This procedure targets the dermis with tiny needles, triggering increased collagen and elastin production to improve stretch marks. Microneedling is not ideal for old stretch marks; recovery takes 3-4 days. Visible results can be experienced after 2-3 sessions.
Cosmetic Surgery
If other treatments are unsuccessful, cosmetic surgery can permanently remove white stretch marks, such as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty, or specific lifts for arms, breasts, and thighs. However, surgery can leave its scars. The choice of cosmetic surgery could depend on the location of stretch marks, and multiple procedures may be combined for the best results. It’s crucial to consult with a dermatologist to understand the most suitable approach based on individual health, age, and the duration of stretch marks.
How To Prevent Stretch Marks
Hydration
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin soft and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks.
- Limit caffeine intake, as it can increase the risk of stretch marks. Drink as much or more water than caffeinated beverages.
Diet
Consume foods that support healthy skin:
- Rich in zinc, like nuts or fish.
- High in vitamins A, C, and D, such as carrots, citrus fruits, and milk.
- Rich in protein, including lentils, beans, broccoli, lean beef, and chicken.
Exercise
- Engage in regular exercise to boost circulation and stimulate collagen production.
- Increased circulation and collagen production contribute to stronger and more elastic skin, reducing the likelihood of stretch marks.
To Wrap It UP
Various treatment options are available to enhance the quality of your skin and reduce stretch marks. From chemical peels and microdermabrasion to laser therapy, microneedling, and, when necessary, cosmetic surgery, these treatments cater to various preferences and needs. The key lies in consulting with a dermatologist to determine a suitable approach based on individual factors.
Best Stretch Marks Reduction Treatment at Welona in Chennai
Welona, Skin, Hair and Slimming Clinic can offer Chennai’s best stretch marks treatment. We aim to empower individuals to feel confident and comfortable in their skin by embracing stretch marks as natural or choosing clinical interventions for a personalized aesthetic journey. We at Welona are dedicated to helping you in whatever way you choose to embrace your skin. Welona has branches across Chennai, in Anna Nagar, T-Nagar, and Thiruvanmiyur; you can choose to visit us at your preferred location. Contact Welona and be the new you!
