We will discuss a common yet troubling skin issue—stretch marks. Stretch marks are a type of scar known scientifically as “striae,” which occur when the skin undergoes rapid stretching. They are commonly found in various areas of the body, particularly during pregnancy, rapid weight gain, or growth spurts.
The formation of stretch marks is due to damage to the elastic fibers and collagen within the skin. For instance, during pregnancy, if the abdomen suddenly expands within a few months, stretch marks are likely to appear. Under a microscope, newly formed stretch marks do not differ significantly from normal skin; these lines arise only when the elastic fibers rupture.
The best time to treat stretch marks is during their initial phase, such as within a few months after childbirth. If treatment is administered in a timely manner, there is a higher chance that newly formed red stretch marks will not turn into less aesthetically pleasing white lines. Effective treatments include pulsed dye laser therapy, skin tightening procedures, and certain fractional lasers like Fraxel, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Despite the many laser technologies available, the risk of pigmentation issues is relatively high for individuals with Asian skin tones. After undergoing some laser treatments, skin pigmentation changes may persist for several months, which can exacerbate the situation for those who already have stretch marks. Therefore, it is particularly important to take advantage of the golden treatment window following the formation of stretch marks.
In contrast to newly formed stretch marks, white stretch marks are significantly harder to treat. This is because established white stretch marks are more challenging to address, and patients should be psychologically prepared for potential side effects from treatment. After undergoing treatment, the risk of changes in pigmentation cannot be avoided.
To treat white stretch marks, options may include the injection of collagen stimulators or microneedling. If you are dealing with the issue of stretch marks, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly to explore suitable treatment plans.
The appearance of stretch marks is related to a combination of factors including genetics, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy. Although various products on the market claim to effectively improve stretch marks, their formation is primarily innate, and the efficacy of topical products is limited. Therefore, taking action and seeking treatment early on is the best strategy to prevent the worsening of stretch marks.