What causes stretch marks to form?

Stretch marks are the result of skin that is stretched faster than its ability to grow. They form in the dermis layer of the skin when the constant stretching of pregnancy or sudden weight gain causes tears in the skin. The connecting fibers in the dermis overstretch and break. That’s why stretch marks are red or purple when they first appear because blood vessels are showing through the tears in the dermis. Over time, they fade to a silvery, white, glossy appearance.

How do laser procedures lessen the appearance of stretch marks?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a procedure or treatment out there that completely removes stretch marks. At La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic, we use different laser treatments to address stretch marks for our patients. For newer red stretch marks, pulsed dye lasers are the most effective. For older, white stretch marks, fractional laser treatments are best. Depending on the patient, we may use our Fraxel, Starwalker, ResurFX, or SP Dynamis lasers for stretch mark treatment. Pulsed dye laser treatment – For pink and red stretch marks, we use pulsed dye lasers. The laser energy is absorbed by the blood vessels of the new, red stretch marks. This heat energy helps resolve the redness. For the first 3-4 days after treatment, your stretch marks will become redder, but will fade over time. Pulsed dye lasers also trigger new collagen development as we describe below with fractional laser treatment. Fractional laser treatment – When the laser light energy penetrates the epidermis it converts to heat and it triggers a remodeling of the collagen, the skin’s support protein that gives the skin its underlying support structure. The body perceives this as a wound and responds by removing older, damaged tissue and producing new collagen and elastin. The new collagen gives the skin a smoother texture and improves the skin tone, lessening the appearance of stretch marks.

Is it possible to prevent stretch marks from forming?

Considering up to 90 percent of pregnant women develop stretch marks, their formation is not easy to stop. They tend to develop most rapidly during the final trimester of the pregnancy when the baby is growing the most. There are some options for trying to prevent stretch marks from forming, but they are far from foolproof. Manage your weight gain – You hear the “eating for two” advice often during pregnancy, but that’s not true. While an average, healthy, non-pregnant woman should eat around 2000 calories per day, pregnant women need only increase this by 200 calories per day. Not going crazy with rapid weight gain is the best way to prevent stretch marks. Hydration – Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin supple and more resistant to the formation of stretch marks. Pregnant women should drink at least 12 cups of water per day. Eat sensibly – Good foods are good for your skin. Rather than binging on junk food, eating plenty of foods with antioxidants, vitamins, zinc, and fatty acids will help your skin and will be better for your baby. Vitamin D – Certain studies have shown a correlation between low levels of vitamin D and the formation of stretch marks. Sunshine provides vitamin D (but doesn’t get burned), as does dairy, fish, and other sources. Moisturize – Massage topical creams or oils into the high-risk areas for stretch mark development. Products that contain shea butter, vitamin E, and aloe vera are the most effective. Massaging them in helps to stimulate blood flow through the area.

Can laser treatment remove stretch marks?

Yes! Laser treatments are some of the most effective solutions when it comes to removing stretch marks. This is because lasers can heat the skin below the surface, where stretch marks originate. By carefully targeting the pigmented cells, laser treatment reduces the appearance of stretch marks.

How many laser sessions does it take to remove stretch marks?

The number of treatment sessions needed to completely remove stretch marks will depend on the severity, size, and color of your stretch marks. Generally, three to five treatment sessions are ideal for most patients.

Can you permanently remove stretch marks?

Yes, you can permanently remove stretch marks with laser treatment. This treatment will destroy the skin pigments that are causing the appearance of stretch marks, and they will fade away as a result. However, keep in mind it is possible to develop stretch marks in the future as a result of pregnancy or other rapid weight gain.

Is laser treatment for stretch marks painful?

Laser treatment may be intimidating, but it doesn’t need to be. Patients rarely describe the treatment as painful. While there may be minor discomfort during treatment, it is best described as a warming or stinging sensation.

When will I see the results from the laser stretch mark removal?

Laser stretch mark removal does not produce instant results, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results in the first few days. It’s common for stretch marks to appear darkened or reddened in the days immediately following treatment. As long as you stick to your treatment plan, you will see your stretch marks gradually fade away over a few months.

Stretch Mark Laser Treatment

Name: La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic
Address: 7720 Fay Ave, La Jolla, California, 92037
Telephone: (858) 225-8380
Price range: Call for Pricing

In La Jolla

Woman displaying stretch marks on leg | La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic In San Diego

STRETCH MARK TREATMENT

Introduction

Stretch marks often affect women during and after pregnancy, however, they can also be brought about by adolescent growth spurts, hormones, weight gain, steroid use, or bodybuilding – and sometimes there seems to be no reason at all. No matter the reason, stretch marks are unwelcome, and not easy to remedy, with previous cream and lotion treatments having no effect once a stretch mark has occurred. At La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic, we offer Stretch Mark Laser Treatment options for men and women in San Diego, Encinitas, La Mesa, El Cajon, and surrounding areas of California.

What is a Stretch Mark Laser Treatment?

Stretch marks are a type of skin scarring that develops when the abdomen is overextended due to pregnancy or being overweight and is a tear in the dermis of the skin. It occurs when skin is stretched beyond its natural ability to adjust to changes in volume accommodation. The tears are usually linear and can be very short, or as in the case of pregnancy, span many inches.

Fractional laser systems have proven to provide the most efficient means of diminishing stretch mark appearance. In our La Jolla office, we use the Fraxel Restore laser to help rebuild collagen and smooth the skin surface. With multiple treatment sessions, patients will often see improved pigmentation blending as the process seems to assist melanin cell migration into the field of the stretch mark itself.

Because the tear is permanent, the only remedy is to force a collagen response to rebuild some of the collagen support layer adjacent to the mark. Fractional laser “turns on” the collagen rebuilding by the use of heat delivered into the deeper layer of the skin. As the collagen is restored, the tear in the dermis shrinks and the mark is less visible. Although Fraxel improves stretch mark appearance, it cannot remove the mark altogether.

What are the benefits of a Stretch Mark Laser Treatment?

Our patients who receive Stretch Mark Laser Treatment in La Jolla and the surrounding San Diego area have been able to enjoy the following benefits from this procedure:

Smoother, better-looking skin without surgery
No treatment downtime
Improved skin appearance
Comfortable treatment sessions
Minimal treatment side effects
FDA-approved procedure

Who are the best candidates for the Stretch Mark Laser Treatment procedure?

A La Jolla and San Diego Stretch Mark Laser Treatment is a beneficial skin resurfacing technique for all skin tones and types, however, we do believe that future candidates should have the following characteristics:

Have lost a large amount of weight and now want to eliminate the stretch marks
Have a fair complexion and light skin tone, or olive or slightly darker skin tones
Maintain realistic expectations
Stretch marks are relatively new due to recent weight loss
Women who have gone through childbirth and are done having children

Some patients, especially those with darker skin tones, will need to follow some pre-treatment instructions. Since the heat from the laser can cause some level of hyperpigmentation in darker skin, we will provide you with a pigmentation suppression product that you will use before and after the treatments.

What’s the First Step?

The first step in getting a Stretch Mark Laser Treatment in La Jolla and the surrounding Southern California area is to contact La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic for a free consultation! When you come into our boutique office, we will examine your body and discuss all of your options for skin rejuvenation. You will be able to ask any questions you may have about the treatment, and your provider will ask you questions about your lifestyle and medical history. It’s very important to be open and honest when having your consultation because not only will it help prevent unnecessary risks, but it will also help you achieve the best results.

After your provider creates your unique treatment plan, our Patient Coordinator will help you schedule your first session. We will also provide you with some directions to follow before your procedure, including avoiding sun exposure for a minimum of four weeks before your treatment and shaving the targeted areas within 24 hours of your appointment. On the day of your treatment, keep your skin clean and clear of any make-up, lotion, and skin care products.

What to expect on the day of Stretch Mark Laser Treatment

On the day of your treatment, we will make you comfortable in our treatment room. Most people don’t require a topical anesthetic, but please advise your treatment provider if you feel more comfortable with numbing cream.

Your provider will use the handheld device and methodically go over your targeted area. The procedure involves both heat and cool air, so you will feel a pulse of hot air and prickling on your skin in the treatment area, followed by a burst of cold air. Your provider will adjust the cold air temperature according to your preference. Most patients will find their Stretch Mark Laser Treatment tolerable, however, some will feel a light tingling or heat from the laser. We encourage you to bring headphones or a book to keep yourself occupied during the treatment.

Laser stretch mark removal takes 30 minutes on average.

Stretch Mark Laser Treatment recovery

After the Stretch Mark Laser Treatment, your skin may be red and sensitive. Many people compare the aftereffects to a mild sunburn. Your provider will apply Aloe Vera to soothe the skin. You can also use a sterilized ice pack to relieve any discomfort in the hours after your treatment. Stay out of direct sunlight for a week after treatment to allow your skin time to heal.

Stretch mark laser treatments are not instant. It’s actually pretty slow going and you may think we need to “hurry up”. The process, which takes place over many months, will improve the appearance of the marks if you follow the treatment plan and practice patience. Collagen will build up gradually after your treatment is complete. You can expect visible results within 7 to 21 days of your treatment.

Don’t apply makeup, cleansers, lotion, and moisturizer for 24 hours. Clean the area with a gentle cleanser, and don’t pluck, tweeze, wax, or thread the area until the skin has fully healed.

The number of sessions you’ll need will depend on several factors:

Your skin type and color
The severity of the stretch marks to be treated
Number of marks in the affected area

How much does RADIESSE Hand Rejuvenation cost in La Jolla & San Diego, CA?

CONTENT NEEDED

Why Choose La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic?

When you choose La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic for your Stretch Mark Laser Treatment, you will be receiving cutting-edge treatment, using the most advanced laser technology. We take great pride in helping the men and women in San Diego and surrounding areas of California feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance. As experts in our field of non-surgical aesthetic treatments, the team at La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic is often featured in the news given our top testimonials, our professional insights, techniques, and many ways that we help men and women in San Diego, Encinitas, La Mesa, El Cajon, and surrounding areas of California.

The clinic is owned, operated, and medically directed by Board-Certified Ophthalmologist Nasrin Mani, M.D., a sensitive female physician experienced in microscopic surgical skills and laser techniques. She is known for her “delicate touch ” and aesthetically pleasing results. You will find our entire team to be down-to-earth, caring medical professionals.

Schedule Your Consultation

For a complimentary consultation to discuss laser treatment options for removing stretch marks, please contact La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic through our website or call (858) 225-8380 today. We are pleased to serve patients throughout the San Diego area and nearby.

Stretch Mark Laser Treatment FAQ’S

Stretch marks are the result of skin that is stretched faster than its ability to grow. They form in the dermis layer of the skin when the constant stretching of pregnancy or sudden weight gain causes tears in the skin. The connecting fibers in the dermis overstretch and break. That’s why stretch marks are red or purple when they first appear because blood vessels are showing through the tears in the dermis. Over time, they fade to a silvery, white, glossy appearance.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a procedure or treatment out there that completely removes stretch marks. At La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic, we use different laser treatments to address stretch marks for our patients. For newer red stretch marks, pulsed dye lasers are the most effective. For older, white stretch marks, fractional laser treatments are best. Depending on the patient, we may use our Fraxel, Starwalker, ResurFX, or SP Dynamis lasers for stretch mark treatment.
- Pulsed dye laser treatment – For pink and red stretch marks, we use pulsed dye lasers. The laser energy is absorbed by the blood vessels of the new, red stretch marks. This heat energy helps resolve the redness. For the first 3-4 days after treatment, your stretch marks will become redder, but will fade over time. Pulsed dye lasers also trigger new collagen development as we describe below with fractional laser treatment.
- Fractional laser treatment – When the laser light energy penetrates the epidermis it converts to heat and it triggers a remodeling of the collagen, the skin’s support protein that gives the skin its underlying support structure. The body perceives this as a wound and responds by removing older, damaged tissue and producing new collagen and elastin. The new collagen gives the skin a smoother texture and improves the skin tone, lessening the appearance of stretch marks.
Considering up to 90 percent of pregnant women develop stretch marks, their formation is not easy to stop. They tend to develop most rapidly during the final trimester of the pregnancy when the baby is growing the most. There are some options for trying to prevent stretch marks from forming, but they are far from foolproof.
- Manage your weight gain – You hear the “eating for two” advice often during pregnancy, but that’s not true. While an average, healthy, non-pregnant woman should eat around 2000 calories per day, pregnant women need only increase this by 200 calories per day. Not going crazy with rapid weight gain is the best way to prevent stretch marks.
- Hydration – Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin supple and more resistant to the formation of stretch marks. Pregnant women should drink at least 12 cups of water per day.
- Eat sensibly – Good foods are good for your skin. Rather than binging on junk food, eating plenty of foods with antioxidants, vitamins, zinc, and fatty acids will help your skin and will be better for your baby.
- Vitamin D – Certain studies have shown a correlation between low levels of vitamin D and the formation of stretch marks. Sunshine provides vitamin D (but doesn’t get burned), as does dairy, fish, and other sources.
- Moisturize – Massage topical creams or oils into the high-risk areas for stretch mark development. Products that contain shea butter, vitamin E, and aloe vera are the most effective. Massaging them in helps to stimulate blood flow through the area.
Laser stretch mark removal does not produce instant results, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results in the first few days. It’s common for stretch marks to appear darkened or reddened in the days immediately following treatment. As long as you stick to your treatment plan, you will see your stretch marks gradually fade away over a few months.

Schedule A Consultation

“I could not have had a better first impression of La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic. I spoke with three practitioners at my appointment, who were all extremely friendly and professional. I never felt pressured to purchase any product/service. In fact, the doctor suggested I hold off on a service I was interested in to see if it was even necessary. I am genuinely looking forward to my next appointment”

Reviews
“I want to share on here how great La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic treated me on the day of my appointment, the staff members were kind and professional and Dr. Mani was great! My experience could not have been any better, Dr. Mani made sure of that! Ty Dr. Mani, I am extremely satisfied with my results and highly recommend La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic!”

Reviews
“Was my first appointment with this clinic. The staff were very nice. Dr Siddiqui was amazing. She really took the time to walk me through the procedure process. She answered all my questions and concerns. She has great bedside manners. I will continue to work with Dr Siddiqui for my dermatology needs and highly recommend her to others. Cheers!”

Reviews
“This was my first time here and my first time getting Botox and let me tell you Dr. Mani and her team is amazing. Coming into it I was extremely nervous bc I’ve never gotten any non surgical procedures done before so I didn’t know what to expect. But when Dr Mani and her team came in I got extremely calm and ready and let me tell you she is amazing and super quick! Didn’t feel a pinch!”

Reviews