A dermatologist in Charlotte has gotten the answer to the most pressing question about stretch marks – “How can I get rid of stretch marks?”. Stretch marks, also known as striae, occur when your skin stretches due to different factors that affect the skin. These factors include the degree of stress on the skin caused by:
- rapid weight loss or weight gain
- family history of stretch marks
- hormonal imbalance due to pregnancy
To some people, stretch marks have become something they have come to embrace; while to some, the appearance of stretch marks on their skin gives them an uncomfortable feeling. Before we continue, there are three very important things to note about stretch marks:
- They are 100% normal and very common in adolescents and adults. Dermatologists have revealed that, although they may slightly alter the appearance of your skin, stretch marks are not harmful. They do not mean that your body is ugly.
- Both men and women are liable to get stretch marks. It is not a “woman’s thing”. The factors that cause stretch marks to develop (except for hormonal changes caused by pregnancy) affect men and women alike.
- Contrary to myths and ridiculous information about stretch marks, they do not completely go away. However, they can fade away with the right treatment. This means that the scars would no longer be visible to see clearly.
The best treatment for stretch marks
Dermatologists have improved different methods for treating stretch marks. The most widely accepted among them is laser therapy treatment. Stretch marks can develop in areas like the arm, thighs, breasts, abdomen, hips, and buttocks. However, it doesn’t appear on the face, feet, and hands.
Laser therapy has evolved over the years to become more effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. The highly intense light increases the development of collagen and promotes elasticity. The energy of the light is concentrated on the tissues. Although stretch marks do not completely disappear, the laser treatment aims to heal the appearance of the marks in the skin and give it a smoother texture.
Top dermatologists have explained that laser treatment is more effective on newer stretch marks than on older ones. The laser treatment comes in two types: ablative treatment and non-ablative treatment. For ablative treatment, Erbium Yag and CO2 are procedures used to remove the outer layer of the skin and promote the growth of collagen so a newer outer layer can be formed.
For the non-ablative treatment, Fraxel laser is used to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. It does not require any removal of skin. However, it works well on both newer and old stretch marks. Laser treatments do not work well with darker skin tones. It may cause a series of hyperpigmentation and other side effects.
Before undergoing a laser treatment procedure, visit your dermatologist to get professional advice and tips on how to go about the procedure.
Best Ballantyne dermatologist for stretch marks
Top dermatologists in Charlotte offer effective laser treatment. Stretch marks are not bad, they are normal and very common. But if they make you feel uncomfortable, you are not wrong to want to get rid of them. Book an appointment with a professional dermatologist to get the best personal advice on laser treatment.
Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care.