Pregnancy, puberty, obesity and short-term weight gain can contribute to the formation of stretch marks on the skin. Although there are many different methods for stretch mark removal, some prove to be more effective than others. If you’re unhappy with the look of your stretch marks and want to get rid of them, the experts at the Cosmetic Vein & Laser Center can help you determine the best course of action for you.
Where Do Stretch Marks Appear?
Women, as well as men, are susceptible to having stretch marks show up on their bodies. They typically occur on the thighs, hips, buttocks, abdomen and arms. The lower back can also be affected.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
Genetics
Genetics can play a role in the appearance of stretch marks. For instance, if a mother had stretch marks after giving birth, it is likely that her daughter will also have them after pregnancy.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is another reason for the development of stretch marks because the skin is often stretched beyond the ability of the connective fibers to maintain their elasticity.
Puberty
Puberty can also cause stretch marks when the body grows faster than the skin can keep up.
Muscle Gain
Bodybuilders sometimes develop muscle mass so quickly that it is beyond the skin’s capability to stretch.
Corticosteroids
Prolonged and heavy use of topical or oral corticosteroids can also cause stretch marks.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is the most common cause of stretch marks. During pregnancy, the skin must stretch quickly, which can result in the remaining stretch marks during and after pregnancy.
Natural Methods
There are a number of natural methods for stretch mark removal. These involve exercise and a well-balanced diet along with creams and lotions that are said to reduce the appearance of the stretch marks. It is important to note that although these methods have some benefit, they are not always 100% effective.
Many products claim to remove or reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but there is little real data available to back these claims up. However, products that are the products to seem most effective when applied to fresh stretch marks.
Laser Stretch Mark Removal
One alternative to natural methods such as topical treatments is laser stretch mark removal. This is a treatment that is done using an excimer laser, which is uniquely effective because it does not burn or cut the skin. Instead, the high-energy ultraviolet light disrupts the skin tissue’s molecular bonds, causing them to disintegrate.
The laser-treated skin heals quickly allowing healthy layers of skin to form, and a healthier appearance to the skin is noticeable. More severe or older stretch marks can take up to 10 treatments to completely disappear.
When undergoing a stretch mark removal treatment, it is recommended that you keep your expectations realistic. One of the most important things you can do when considering laser stretch mark removal is selecting the right team to perform the treatment.
Contact the experts at The Cosmetic Vein & Laser Center in Buffalo, NY to schedule your initial consultation!