Stretch Mark Laser Removal: How to Forget About the Problem?

Stretch marks are an unsightly reminder of pregnancies, weight fluctuations, or simply growing older. Although it’s impossible to erase them completely, laser stretch mark removal can help significantly reduce their visibility.

If you are self-conscious about your stretch marks and want to do something about them, read on the Heliotherapy Institute resource for information about the latest technologies in this field. You can find there everything you need to know about phototherapy. Also, there are many reviews on light therapy devices for skin treatment.

This article will discuss all aspects of stretch mark laser removal. Besides, you can find tips to help you achieve the best results.

Table of Contents

About stretch marks

Stretch marks or striae are spots that can appear on the skin after it has been rapidly stretched or compressed. It can occur during puberty, pregnancy, weight gain, or loss. In addition, certain health conditions, steroid use, and some medications can cause stretch marks.

They are usually red or purple and have a different texture than the surrounding skin. Over time, striae will fade to a white or silver color. The most common location for striae is the lower abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. Sometimes they can appear on the triceps area and chest.

Stretch marks can be uncomfortable and unsightly, and many people shy away from them.

What is laser stretch mark removal?

Laser stretch mark removal is a procedure in which lasers target and remove stretch marks. You can use this treatment to release new and old stretch marks. Additionally, it is effective in reducing the visibility of both.

Laser treatment offers a much more effective solution to stretch marks as other non-invasive options. The technology behind lasers has come a long way in recent years, and there are now many different types to treat them effectively.

The most common type of laser used for this purpose is an ablative laser. This type of laser removes layers of skin, which can help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
The fractionated CO₂-laser attacks the top layer of skin and vaporizes it. This process stimulates new collagen production, which enhances the appearance of stretch marks by building new skin cells.
Another effective type of laser for stretch mark removal is one that targets the deeper layers of skin and breaks down the pigment on the scar tissue formed around stretch marks.

Main positives of laser treatment

Laser treatment is a popular solution for many dermatological problems. There are several reasons why people opt for it to get rid of their stretch marks.

First, many of the topical remedies and creams available on the market today simply do not work.
Secondly, surgery is often costly and can be quite invasive.
This method is accurate, effective, and has relatively few side effects.
It can target specific areas of the skin and treat stretch marks without affecting the surrounding skin tissue.
Laser treatment is also a relatively quick and easy procedure – most who have undergone it report good results after just a few sessions.
The procedure also does not use needles, making it much less painful than other treatments such as surgery or injections.
It has a short recovery period, so you don’t need to postpone this procedure until a suitable time.

Common drawbacks of stretch mark laser removal

Laser removal is a popular method for treating stretch marks because it is relatively safe and noninvasive. But it is not without its disadvantages.

First, the cost of laser removal can be prohibitively expensive.
Second, laser removal requires multiple treatments spaced out over several weeks or months, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
The positive result depends on the qualification and experience of the specialist.
Laser removal has a small risk of side effects, such as skin irritation, pigment changes, and scarring.
There is a risk of skin discoloration and burns with this treatment.
Not all lasers are FDA-approved for the removal of stretch marks.

Take this information into consideration when you decide to use laser treatment.

Contraindications for stretch mark laser removal

This procedure is not suitable for everyone. Please, take a look through the main contraindications for stretch mark laser removal are:

Pregnancy and lactation;
Skin diseases in the active stage (herpes, warts, eczema, psoriasis);
Thrombophlebitis;
Tumors of any localization;
Decompensated diabetes mellitus;
Oncological diseases;
Taking some medications like aspirin or steroids

If you have any of these conditions, please consult with your doctor before scheduling a consultation.

Is it effective?

While laser treatment is popular for many people, does it really work for stretch mark removal? The effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as age, severity, and location of markings. There is no guarantee that laser therapy will get rid of stretch marks, but it can certainly help improve your appearance.

In some cases, laser treatment can even make them disappear entirely, primarily if you treat red color striae. You should know that old white and silver stretch marks cannot totally disappear after laser removal. However, it is the best option among all other treatments.

Tips on how to achieve the best result

Laser removal treatment can help you forget your stretch marks and eliminate them for good. But you should keep some essential things in mind for achieving the best results. Ensure to follow these tips, and the process will be safer and more pleasant for you.

Preliminary consultation

Do your research and choose a qualified dermatologist or laser specialist. After that, schedule the preliminary consultation. It is essential because it gives the dermatologist an opportunity to:

Assess your skin type;
Evaluate the severity of your stretch marks;
Determine whether you are a good candidate for laser removal treatment;
It will likely involve a discussion of your medical history, as well as a physical examination;
Your doctor will also need to know about any medications you’re taking and whether you have any allergies.

During the consultation, be sure to ask the dermatologist any questions you have about the procedure. The specialist will assess your case at the talk and give you all the necessary information about the process.

Tips on how to achieve the best result — Close up of a young woman’s thigh with white stretch marks from a weight loss or weight gain before and after laser removal procedure. Result of treatment. Cosmetology, beauty

Preparation for the procedure

Laser removal is an effective and safe way to deal with stretch marks. Once you’ve decided to go ahead with treatment, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for your appointment:

First, you’ll need to avoid sun exposure or tanning bed for four weeks before your appointment. It is because sunlight can make stretch marks more challenging to treat.
Stop using certain medications that can make your skin more sensitive to light at least one month before the procedure.
You should also avoid using any exfoliating products or scrubs on your skin. It can cause more sensitivity during the laser removal session.
You’ll also need to avoid using any products that contain retinoids or steroids for four weeks before your appointment. These products can make stretch marks more challenging to treat.
Finally, you’ll need to shave the treatment area before your appointment. It will help the practitioner to get a better view of the stretch marks and ensure that the laser light can reach them.

During the laser removal session

There are several steps you should do during the laser removal session. Follow all doctor’s instructions correctly.

You should wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the bright light.
The doctor must anesthetize the laser application sites. It will make the process less painful and more comfortable for you.
The doctor will apply a gel to the skin to help the laser move smoothly across the surface.
The laser beam is directed at the stretch marks to destroy them for a certain amount of time.
After the treatment, expect some redness, swelling, and discomfort; this is normal and will subside within a few days.

It is essential to note that laser removal is not a single treatment option. In most cases, multiple treatments will be necessary to achieve desired results. Each session can take up to an hour, and there is usually no downtime required after the treatment.

Don’t forget about aftercare

Aftercare is also an essential part of laser stretch mark removal. It provides quick recovery and long-lasting results. Do these simple steps in skincare after the procedure:

Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Keep the area clean and apply moisturizer or ointment.
Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when outdoors.

Follow these steps through all the stretch mark removal process, as you will need several sessions to eliminate all marks.

Summary

If you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your stretch marks, you may want to consider laser removal. It is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments currently available. This procedure can help improve the appearance of the skin and make striae less noticeable. It is crucial to consult with a qualified professional. They will be able to advise you on whether this procedure is proper for you and answer any questions you may have. We hope our article will help you learn about this method and make the right decision. Follow all steps to your dream of having healthy and beautiful skin

Author Bio:

Jose Diego Mier is the CEO of Lug Healthcare Technology, the Coordinator of the Cancer Clinic, an honored specialist the founder of Heliotherapy Research Institute.