Stretch marks (or striae, as they are known medically) are an unsightly form of scarring.
Most of us will experience them at some point, and we all detest them. Of course, stretch marks are not a health risk in themselves, but they do leave ridges on the skin.
These lines can often cause distress and embarrassment, especially as they first appear in bright red or purple form.
The marks tend to fade to a lighter, almost translucent silver as we age, but they can still affect our self-esteem. Whether it’s donning a bikini for the summer holiday, or simply getting undressed at night – stretch marks can really knock your confidence.
Why do we get stretch marks?
Understanding where they come from can help you to treat them effectively. Stretch marks are caused by damage to the dermis and, as you’d expect, are usually the result of skin being stretched. This predominantly occurs through pregnancy or weight gain, as the skin is pulled and stretched beyond its elasticity. Most of us suffer from them – 75% of men and 90% of women will develop stretch marks at some point in their lives – but some of us suffer more than others.
The abdomen and breasts are often left scarred after pregnancy, and weight gain can cause stretch marks to the arms, thighs and buttocks. Even extreme growth during adolescence can cause visible lines, and sometimes they simply won’t fade away to nothing. Lotions, creams and oils are all widely used treatments, but unfortunately, most are ineffective.
Stretch mark treatment
Whilst we’ll all experience stretch marks at some point in our lives, we actually don’t have to live with them.
One of the most effective procedures you can try is Dermaroller Therapy.
Dermaroller Therapy is a pain-free and permanent treatment. As anaesthetic cream is applied to the skin prior to commencing, so you shouldn’t feel more than a slight tingling.
Thousands of microscopic needles cause the skin to respond to trauma, so the skin heals as the needles encourage the production of collagen.
You won’t notice any visible signs of improvement for six weeks or more, but the process continues into the following months, providing a gradual and permanent enhancement.
What to Expect
After the procedure, you may experience a little redness that resembles slight sunburn. This will subside only hours later, as the process of healing the skin begins. Depending on the size, shape and severity of your stretch marks, more than one session might be advised.
So if you suffer with stretch marks, know you don’t have to put up with them.
Medical Dermaroller therapy is available at Quinn Clinics in Clifton, Bristol. Call 0117 924 4592 for an appointment.