Stretch Marks

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body where the skin has been stretched, and they often occur as a result of weight gain. They are most likely to appear in places where fat is stored, including the abdomen, breasts, upper arms, thighs and buttocks. They pose absolutely no health risk and don’t compromise your body’s ability to function healthily.

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We have three layers of skin: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the subcutaneous stratum (innermost layer). Stretch marks occur in the dermis, the resilient middle layer that helps the skin retain its shape. When the dermis is constantly stretched over time, the skin becomes less elastic and the small connective fibres within it break. The result is what we know as stretch marks.

Pregnant women aren’t alone in being susceptible. Adolescents experiencing growth spurts and athletes – especially bodybuilders who practice strenuous and repetitive exercise – are likely to get stretch marks, as is anyone who gains or loses a significant amount of weight in a short period of time.

Treating stretch marks has always been a very difficult task. When stretch marks first appear they look pinky-red and slightly raised. They then increase in length and acquire a dark purple colour and over time, become white and flat. The latest proven technology to improve and reduce the appearance of stretch marks includes; Ablative and Non-ablative Fractional Laser, Skin Tightening and Microneedling treatments.

More and more people are opting for stretch mark removal in order to regain skin confidence. At The Laser and Skin Clinic we take pride in offering the latest proven technology to achieve the best results. Whatever the age and size of your stretch marks, our skin specialists can help to significantly improve the appearance of your stretch marks with a wide range of FDA approved treatments.

Depending on the size, depth and colour of your stretch marks, a combination approach may be best for superior results. This is when we use multiple technologies and skin treatments over a period of time. Our skin experts will discuss a combination treatment plan in the initial consultation.

Available Treatments for Stretch Marks

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body where the skin has been stretched, and they often occur as a result of weight gain. Our bodies have three layers of skin: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the subcutaneous stratum (innermost layer). Stretch marks occur in the dermis, the resilient middle layer that helps the skin retain its shape. When the dermis is constantly stretched over time, the skin becomes less elastic and the small connective fibers within it break. The result is what we know as stretch marks.

Stretch marks are most likely to appear in places where fat is stored including the abdomen, breasts, upper arms thighs and buttocks.

The main factors that contribute to the formation of stretch marks include genetic factors, increased levels of body steroids, and mechanical effects like pregnancy, obesity and weight lifting. When we look under a microscope, stretch marks look like a scar. When treating scarring usually a combination of treatments achieves the best results. Treatment will depend on location of stretch marks, size of area and if stretch marks are recent or old.

Pregnant women aren’t alone in being susceptible. Adolescents experiencing growth spurts and athletes – especially bodybuilders who practice strenuous and repetitive exercise – are likely to get stretch marks, as is anyone who gains or loses a significant amount of weight in a short period of time.

Stretch marks can be divided into two groups: red (new) and white (mature). Early stretch marks will appear pink in colour, and may also be itchy. The skin immediately around the stretch marks may also look ‘flattened’ and ‘thin’. Gradually, the stretch marks will enlarge in length and width and become a reddish or purple colour.

Once the stretch marks have matured, they lose their reddish/pink hue. They will then start to fade and become pale white or silver. They may also appear slightly depressed and irregular in shape or length.

Treating stretch marks while they are still red can be easier than waiting until they mature and turn to white or silvery grey. Newer stretch makes are usually treated with a combination of laser treatments. The white or silvery stretch marks are usually best treated with fractional laser. They will likely need multiple treatments for best clinical outcome. Treatments are usually done once every 6-8 weeks.

“Old” or mature stretch marks usually present as hypopigmented lesions. This means that the stretch marks are lighter than the person’s natural skin tone. Unfortunately, putting pigmentation (colour) back once it is lost is far more challenging than removing the colour that is usually associated with stretch marks such as red or dark brown.

Lasers and micro needling technology have the ability to stimulate collagen and elastin to improve the appearance of stretch marks. However, not everyone is a good candidate and much depends on the amount and size of the stretch marks, realistic expectations and skin tone.

There is no absolute cure for stretch marks. However, the majority of stretch marks can be improved through a combination of fractional lasers, microneedling and carboxytherapy.

A combination of lasers, microneedling, chemical peels and carboxytherapy treatments are often recommended to achieve the best results. Most clients have noticed a significant improvement in the appearance of stretch marks after a combination of 6 treatments.

Depending on the skin tone some lasers, peels, microneedling and carboxytherapy can be used for the treatment of stretch marks on fair to darker skin tones. Dermapen Microneedling and RioBlush Carboxytherapy can be safely performed on all skin tones. There is no risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation as the melanocytes remain intact, like the epidermis, during skin needling.

Stretch Marks Treatment Video

The Laser and Skin Clinic IconThe Laser and Skin Clinic

7 Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin 2

4.8 350 reviews

  • Avatar Clare Gorman ★★★★★ 2 months ago
    I have noticed a huge improvement in my skin since completing a course of skin peels before lockdown, I have been using my products religiously and have just re-ordered! I am just so happy with how my skin is looking and feeling I will … More never go back to mainstream skincare. Thanks Laser and Skin Clinic!!
  • Avatar Karen Brady ★★★★★ 2 months ago
    Have been attending the Laser and Skin clinic for over 2 years. The nurses are always so friendly and knowledgeable, make you feel in safe hands. Even over lockdown my skin is improving, I use the recommended products daily and am seeing … More a huge difference. Can’t wait to get back into the clinic for my next skin peel!
  • Avatar Bronwynpugh Pugh ★★★★★ 2 months ago
    Started a course of laser hair removal last year and I’m delighted with the results so far. Have hardly shaved at all during lockdown 🙌🏻 The staff are always so lovely and full of advice. Can’t wait to get back and finish my course when … More they’re open. Would highly recommend

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*Results and benefits can vary and are different for each individual. Therefore The Laser and Skin Clinic cannot guarantee specific results.