About Stretch Marks
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a common skin condition that occurs when the skin is rapidly stretched or shrunk. Stretch marks are very common, and most often appear during or after pregnancy, or after sudden or rapid changes in weight. These marks may appear anywhere but are commonly found on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and buttocks. Stretch marks are not harmful but may be cosmetically bothersome for individuals. Cosmetic treatments such as skin needling, chemical peels, and other treatments, can help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Commonly asked questions about Stretch Marks
Before undertaking any procedure, you will want to be confident in your knowledge. Find the details on Stretch Marks here.
2. What causes stretch marks?
Stretch marks are caused by rapid stretching of the skin due to hormonal changes, genetics, and rapid weight gain. When the skin is stretched quickly, such as during pregnancy, the middle layer of the skin (the dermis) can tear, leading to the formation of stretch marks. Some individuals may be more prone to developing stretch marks due to genetics.
4. What are the different types of treatments for stretch marks?
Skin Needling – Skin needling, also known as microneedling or collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic treatment that involves making tiny punctures in the skin using a hand-held device. The body treats these punctures as wounds, stimulating the production of elastin and collagen. Both elastin and collagen are vital in attaining more youthful looking skin, improving the texture and appearance of stretch marks.
Chemical Peels – Chemical peels is a skin resurfacing procedure. A chemical solution will be applied to the affected area of skin to exfoliate and remove the outermost layers of dead skin cells. This process stimulates the deeper skin cells to produce collagen and elastin, improving the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
Laser Therapy – Laser therapy is an effective treatment for reducing the appearance of stretch marks, particularly new stretch marks that have a reddish or purple colour. A laser device emits short pulses of high-energy light onto the affected area and the light is absorbed by the skin’s pigments. The laser targets and heats up the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, stimulating the body’s natural response. This process leads the production of new, healthy skin cells.
Microdermabrasion – Microdermabrasion results in smoother, more even toned skin by using a hand-held device to exfoliate the skin’s outermost layer of dead skin cells. The skin is exfoliated by tiny crystals sprayed from the special device. The device then vacuums away the crystals and dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of stretch marks. This treatment may require multiple sessions to achieve desired results.
9. How much does stretch mark treatment cost in Canada?
The cost of treating stretch marks varies based on the severity of the condition, the type of treatment, the size of the area treated, geographic location, and the surgeon & their experience. In Canada, the cost of stretch mark treatments begins at $200 and can go up to $1,000 or more per session.