After conditions such as pregnancy or significant weight gain, stretch marks can appear on the abdomen, arms, hips, breasts, back, and shoulders. Diminishing these marks that cast a shadow on the allure of the décolleté, legs, and abdomen is now easily achievable with laser treatments available today. Laser treatments can provide a more youthful, firm, and smooth skin structure.

Causes and Formation of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are typically long, thin, and wavy skin marks seen on the abdomen, arms, hips, breasts, back, and shoulders. When the body expands, and the skin does not stretch accordingly, these marks emerge. Insufficient collagen in the skin can also contribute to the appearance of stretch marks. Common causes of stretch marks include:

• Rapid weight gain and sudden growth
• Pregnancy
• Bodybuilding
• Breast implant surgery
• High levels of steroids in the body due to conditions like Cushing’s syndrome and steroid medication intake
• Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder causing abnormal growth, reducing skin fibers and leading to unusual enlargement

Stretch marks are especially prevalent during pregnancy. As the abdomen expands to make room for the baby, the skin stretches, and the rising hormones weaken the skin fibers, resulting in the formation of stretch marks.

How is Stretch Mark Treatment with Laser Conducted?

The most effective method for stretch mark treatment is the Co2 fractional laser. In this treatment, collagen is shortened, and collagen tightening is achieved by leveraging the effects of heat. With the production of collagen and elastic fibers, the skin regenerates itself, reducing the appearance of stretch marks.

Special preparation is not required during the application. Before the procedure, skin cleansing is performed, and a topical anesthetic cream is applied. The procedure is not painful and does not require general anesthesia. Laser treatment is fast and comfortable.

The Co2 laser method, with its high wavelength, assists in skin peeling, contributing to effective stretch mark treatment. Combining Co2 fractional laser treatment with mesotherapy can yield more efficient and rapid results.

How Many Sessions for Laser Stretch Mark Treatment?

The number of sessions is determined during a consultation with a specialist doctor. The session count varies depending on the location to be treated and personal characteristics but generally ranges from 4 to 6 sessions.

The intervals between sessions should be 6-8 weeks. The final effect of the treatment becomes apparent three months later, as collagen production completes within 3-6 months.

Before and After Stretch Mark Treatment

Before treatment, white lines are visible on the skin’s surface. After treatment, the skin, regaining its elasticity, completely eliminates these white lines. Stretch mark treatment results in firmer, more elastic skin compared to its previous state.

What to Pay Attention to After Laser Stretch Mark Treatment?

Cold compresses are applied during the treatment. A warm shower can be taken the day after the treatment. The skin should be kept clean, and the creams recommended by the specialist doctor should be applied and moisturized several times a day. If exposed to sunlight, sun protection creams should be applied. Redness in the application areas occurs on the first day, followed by the onset of a phase of small scabbing that lasts for 4-5 days. Moisturizing the skin should continue according to the recommendations of the specialist doctor.