Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a common skin concern characterised by thin, reddish or purplish lines that develop on the skin surface. These lines often fade to a silver or white colour over time, but they can remain visible and cause many individuals to feel self-conscious and lacking in confidence.
The causes of stretch marks include genetic predisposition, rapid weight gain or loss, hormonal changes and certain medical conditions. However, they are most commonly associated with pregnancy, obesity and rapid growth during adolescence. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and protecting the skin from sun damage can help prevent stretch marks.
At Tracey Bell, we can help with aesthetic medical solutions, including:
- Fractional laser therapy: this involves using lasers to stimulate collagen production and promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells. This treatment can be particularly effective for newer, red stretch marks.
- Microneedling: this involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture and tone. This treatment can be effective for both newer and older stretch marks.
- Dermal fillers: these can be injected into depressed stretch marks to fill the depressed areas and improve skin texture and tone.
- Chemical peels: these involve applying a solution to the skin that causes the outer layers of the skin to peel away, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. This treatment can be effective for mild to moderate stretch marks.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): PRP involves injecting a patient’s blood plasma, which is rich in growth factors, into the affected area to stimulate collagen production and promote healing.
- Polynucleotides: these can promote tissue repair and rejuvenation by stimulating the production of collagen and improving skin elasticity. When injected into the affected area, polynucleotides reduce the appearance of stretch marks over time.