As the weather continues to heat up in Ottawa, dresses, bathing suits, and warm weather attire become daily wear. For some, stretch marks are a hindrance to wearing certain types clothing, and people would like them improved.
Stretch marks, also known as “striae”, a form of scarring in the skin. If you or someone you know has them, you are not alone. Whether you are a new mother or experienced a growth spurt at some point, stretch marks are a common occurrence that affects multiple areas of the body. Stretch marks can be found anywhere, but the abdomen, breasts, under the arms, thighs, hips, and buttocks are the most common places.
Stretch marks appear to be caused by rapid expansion of the skin. However, hormones such as cortisol can also play a role. An increase in cortisol can increase the severity of stretch marks by reducing the skin’s pliability. This affects the skin by preventing cells called fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers, which are necessary to keep the skin flexibility. This can create a lack of supportive material as the skin is stretched, and leads to dermal and epidermal tearing, which in turn can produce scarring in the form of stretch marks.
Stretch marks can reduce in appearance over time, but there are a few different stretch mark treatments in Ottawa to help improve their appearance. At Concept Medical, we use a non-ablative, fractional laser to treat and reduce stretch marks. This laser treatment is safe with no downtime and minimal discomfort. Other common treatments for stretch marks in Ottawa include glycolic acids, laser, micro-needling, PRP, microdermabrasion and some topical creams.
Fractional laser treatments involve energy delivery by a state-of-the-art laser where focused micro beams create heat particles that penetrate into the skin. When a fractional laser is used to treat the skin, targeted areas are heated with the focused laser beam. Following the treatment, your body initiates a self-healing process and stimulates the new healthier skin to form.
Following your treatment, you may resume your normal daily activities immediately. The benefits of fractional laser treatments are multiple. Fractional laser involves no anesthetic, treatment is quick with minimal downtime, and fractional lasers are effective although results may differ between patients. After treatment, the area treated may appear slightly flushed and pink. However, commonly subsides within hours to a few days. For more information, please contact us.