Stretch Marks Treatment
A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly.
A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin, which support our skin, to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks may appear.
Not everyone develops these narrow bands on their skin. Fluctuating hormone levels seem to play a role. You may also have a higher risk if people in your family get stretch marks.
If you develop stretch marks, you’re most likely to do so during these times:
- Growth spurts that happen in puberty
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Weight training when you have rapid muscle growth
When stretch marks first appear, they tend to be red, purple, pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown, depending on your skin color. Early stretch marks may feel slightly raised and can be itchy. In time, the color fades and the narrow bands sink beneath your skin. If you run your finger over a mature stretch mark, you often feel a slight depression.
The Cynosure ICON laser using the 1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece effectively reduces the appearance in stretch marks following a series of treatment sessions here at New Light Laser & Aesthetics. Once the energy is absorbed into the skin, your body’s natural healing process will begin creating new, healthy skin (that is more even in both color and texture) in the area that was treated.
Potenza takes RF microneedling to new levels. The versatility this system provides allows us to customize your treatments based on your specific needs – all skin types, anywhere on the body, any time of the year. The industry gold standard for skin tightening, toning, acne scarring improvement, surgical scar improvement, cystic acne treatment, mommy tummy makeover, underarm tightening, and improving the look of cellulite.
1540 Non-ablative laser post-treatment instructions
Application of cool gel packs and appropriate topical creams immediately following treatment can help alleviate post treatment itchiness and stinging that may occur.
Edema, and sometimes blanching, is expected immediately post-treatment and generally resolves within 24- 48 hours. It may last up to 3 - 5 days in some clients.
Those being treated may experience significant redness, broken capillaries and bronzing in the treatment area for approximately 1 - 3 days after treatment. This may persist in a mild form for several weeks particularly in areas other than the face.
Following a more aggressive treatment, it may be helpful to use some occlusive ointment on the skin after treatment and during the healing process to help desquamation or crusting.
To help remove debris and bronzing of the skin that can appear 1 - 4 days after treatment, soak treated areas for 5 - 15 minutes with gauze or washcloth wet with water, then gently remove debris. Do not pick at or scrub the treated areas.
Gently cleansing and use of non-irritating cosmetics are permitted after treatment. It is suggested that retinoids be discontinued 1 - 2 weeks prior to the initial treatment and throughout the course of treatment. The use of retinoids during the treatment course may result in undesirable side effects and prolonged healing.
Those prone to acne outbreaks should avoid heavy makeup and moisturizers for 24 hours post treatment.
As healing occurs, clients should avoid injury and sun exposure for at least 2 weeks following treatments. It is highly recommended that clients use sunscreen with SPF 45 or higher containing UVA/UVB protection between treatments, along with a sun blocker such as zinc oxide whenever they are outside.
Once the treatment area has healed, some itching or dryness may occur. This will gradually clear. The use of non-irritation moisturizers may provide some relief.
After treating striae (stretch marks) it is recommended to avoid tight fitting clothes around the treated area for 3 months after the last laser treatment.
Please advise the treatment provider if there are any issues or concerns following your treatment.
