Stretch Mark Treatment
How does laser improve Stretch Marks?
There are many lasers that can be used to improve stretch marks. Fractional CO2 Laser, Erbium:YAG and Erbium:Glass Laser produce microscopic sites of thermal impact to stimulate natural collagen and elastin production while remove damaged tissue on the skin surface. Pulsed Dye Laser such as VBeam® can be used alone or combined with Fractional Laser to treat the red stretched marks.
Is anti-stretch marks cream effective?
Anti-stretch mark creams when used alone is not as effective as when combined with laser. This is because most formula in the market has poor penetration into the skin and does not reach the later that produce collagen.
How many treatments do I need?
This depends on severity and the areas involved. Generally, 4 to 6 treatments are required to see the improvements. The treatments are spaced out every 4 weeks.
Are there any complications from the laser treatment?
The main complication from laser treatment is hyperpigmentation. The skin on the abdomen and upper thighs heal much slower thereby increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. Another commonly seen reaction would be itch during the healing process which can be reduced with increase application of moisturiser.
Is there any discomfort during the treatment?
There is mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure. Anesthetic cream is all that is usually required 40 mins prior to the treatment. Most of our patients tolerate the procedure very well and describe the feeling of laser as modest stinging.