Stretch marks are a common skin condition. In fact, the majority of people have stretch marks somewhere on their body. They are not harmful or a cause for medical concern. However, they can cause issues when it comes to your self-confidence. Why do stretch marks appear? There are a variety of reasons you may experience stretch marks. Below you will find helpful information on the cause and what treatment options are available.
Why Do Stretch Marks Appear?
Stretch marks are a type of scar caused by your skin stretching or shrinking too quickly. The quick-change causes the collagen and elastin in your skin to rupture. Collagen and elastin are important proteins that help keep your skin firm and supple. They are also integral in maintaining your skin’s elasticity. As your skin heals from the quick rupture, stretch marks will appear. They are often parallel lines that can appear anywhere on your body. Stretch marks come in a variety of colors, including a purple or pink color, or white. There is no way to completely prevent stretch marks, but certain factors place you at a higher risk.
- Pregnancy: This is likely the most common time that people experience stretch marks. Pregnancy can dramatically stretch the skin on your abdomen, making it very difficult to avoid stretch marks.
- Weight Changes: Rapid weight gain or muscle growth can result in stretch marks on your skin.
- Growth Spurts: Puberty can often come with rapid growth spurts. This can cause the skin to stretch too quickly.
Stretch Mark Treatment
Once stretch marks appear on your skin, cosmetic intervention is necessary. Stretch mark removal in NYC is highly effective in treating the skin condition. The treatment involves the use of lasers to remove the stretch marks and restore your skin’s natural look. Laser treatment is highly effective in activating your body’s natural regeneration systems and igniting new growth to smooth out your stretch marks. The treatment increases your collagen production, which helps remove your stretch marks.
Unlike surgery, laser treatment is non-invasive and can be done in the office. Laser treatment is comfortable and painless. For those who are highly sensitive, local numbing cream is available. The treatment session lasts roughly 30 minutes and there is no downtime involved. You may see some minor redness and swelling, which is completely normal and should go away within just a few days. Most people receive 3 to 5 laser treatments as it is a gradual process.
Gradual Improvement
However, you will notice improvement after each session. The treatment is a permanent solution to your stretch marks. It’s important to note that if you get pregnant, or experience rapid weight gain, the stretch marks can come back. Focus on maintaining your weight and slowly gaining muscle if you are working out often.
Laser treatment is the most effective option for stretch mark removal. Many creams and serums will make untrue claims about their ability to prevent or get rid of them. But there is no evidence of their effectiveness. However, it is important to keep your skin hydrated. While it cannot prevent stretch marks, it helps keep your skin soft and supple. Consider talking with a dermatologist about your stretch marks as cosmetic treatments can be more cost effective in the long run.
Dermatologist in NYC
The first step in getting laser treatment for your stretch marks is a consultation. If you are interested in getting your stretch marks removed, contact Dr. Sheryl Clark at MD Skin Science. She is the top dermatologist in NYC and has helped countless patients restore the look and feel of their skin. Contact her office today for a consultation!