Stretch Marks

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are also known as striae. They appear when the skin is stretched more than it can cope with. Many people develop them during puberty and pregnancy, when the hormones are disturbed and there is a change in body shape. This makes the tissues of the dermis tear, resulting in long purple or red wounds.

High levels of steroid hormones, either given as medication or produced by the body in Cushing’s syndrome can also cause striae to form.

What do stretch marks look like?

When stretch marks first appear they are long streaks that are red or purple in colour. They may be raised and can be very noticeable and difficult to disguise.

Stretch marks fade over time, eventually becoming flat, fine silvery lines that are much less noticeable.

Stretch mark treatment at The Medical Chambers Kensington

Stretch marks are often frustratingly difficult to treat. Our consultant cosmetic dermatologists have lots of experience in treating stretch marks. They will assess your skin and discuss your treatment goals before creating a recommended treatment plan. Skin resurfacing treatments can help fade the discoloration and therapies that remodel the underlying tissue can smooth the skin and improve the overall appearance. However, the structural tear in the skin remains. Effective treatments include:

Microneedling

Microneedling is a therapy that uses your skin’s natural healing processes. Your consultant will apply a derma roller device to the treatment area. The roller is covered with fine needles which make multiple tiny holes in your skin. Each puncture wound triggers a wound healing response to regenerate and repair the damaged skin cells. The body increases your collagen and elastin production which improves your skin’s texture and improves the appearance of stretch marks.

Plasma Skin Regeneration

Plasma Skin Regeneration is the latest innovation in skin resurfacing technology. It uses targeted plasma energy to heat the skin and remove surface cells to reveal fresher smoother skin. Deeper regeneration treatment also boosts natural collagen production, remodels deep tissues and improves the appearance of stretch marks.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is mechanical exfoliation using fine aluminium crystals. It removes the outer layers of dead skin to reveal smoother skin. A course of monthly microdermabrasion resurfaces your skin and improves your skin’s texture and the appearance of stretch marks.