Stretch marks are a common and potentially unwanted result of changes in your body. They often occur with pregnancy, but can also affect bodybuilders and anyone who has gained or lost significant weight in a short period of time. For some teenagers and pre-teens, they appear after a sudden growth spurt.
Maintaining a stable weight and taking care of your skin can help reduce or prevent significant stretch marks. However, some factors such as heredity and hormonal changes are out of your control.
While Retin-A has been shown to be marginally effective and other oils, creams and lotions are supposed to help with stretch marks, most medical experts agree that the claims are mostly hype. However, innovations in the use of lasers for cosmetic purposes have raised hopes for addressing this cosmetic concern.
This article will discuss whether lasers can really remove stretch marks, what laser treatments are like, and what you need to know about the cost and insurance coverage for the procedures.
Can lasers remove stretch marks?
Unfortunately, no, lasers won’t remove your stretch marks. Since stretch marks represent a permanent change in the dermis (the deepest layer of skin below the surface layer known as the epidermis), no amount of laser resurfacing can erase them.
However, studies have shown that laser treatments can reduce the depth of stretch marks in some people, meaning that the marks may become lighter. In fact, the results show an improvement rate of between 20% and 60%.
How lasers can help
Laser treatments involve infrared and visible red light rays applied to your skin. The laser energy breaks up the scar tissue that makes up the stretch mark. It then stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the dermal (deeper) layer of the skin, where stretch marks form.
Finally, the laser increases blood flow to the area, which makes the marks less noticeable. The result is a lighter texture with softer and smoother skin.
Lasers are most effective on immature stretch marks, which are marks that are red in color. Many health care providers say they are almost useless on more mature (or white) stretch marks.
Fractional laser resurfacing, using a laxer called Fraxel, can provide better results for older stretch marks than traditional laser treatments. These procedures also help reduce scarring, and after a series of treatments, you may notice that your skin can continue to slowly improve for months as new collagen continues to form.
Even with these new approaches, however, you can’t expect the same results you’ll see with laser treatments performed on immature stretch marks.
When it comes to darker skin types, laser use is generally considered inadvisable because there is a high risk of hyperpigmentation changes in the skin.
How many sessions are needed to remove stretch marks?
The number of sessions required to get the desired results can range from two to two dozen. It is estimated that to get optimal results, you will need about 20 laser treatment sessions. However, the exact number depends on your situation. In all cases, multiple sessions are spread over several weeks in order to see the best results.
Once you have achieved the desired results, you may want to schedule subsequent appointments. Repeat treatments are sometimes required down the road to maintain the look of your skin.
How long does laser stretch mark removal take?
Each laser session is estimated to be between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the size of the area and where the stretch marks are located.
After your treatment, you will be given a list of recommendations to help you maintain the results and protect the skin as it continues to heal and rejuvenate. Instructions may include the following:
- Do not sunbathe or use a tanning bed.
- Do not wax the area, do not apply chemical peels and do not do collagen injections for two weeks after the treatment.
- Do not apply perfumes, deodorants or anything that may irritate the skin.
- Do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements after the procedure because it increases the risk of bleeding.
Are laser treatments painful?
In general, laser treatment for stretch marks is not considered painful, but there may be some discomfort during the procedure. The sensation may be similar to a mild sunburn and may be accompanied by some swelling. Topical numbing cream may be used before and after treatment to help relieve pain.
Cost of laser treatments for stretch marks
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), skin resurfacing costs about $1,199 for multiple sessions, which covers only the surgeon and facility fee. There may be additional costs for medication or related treatments.
The actual price, however, will vary greatly depending on the number of sessions you need and your geographic location. When weighing costs, however, don’t try to cut corners by choosing a less qualified professional. A qualified plastic surgeon is your best bet for quality results.
Because laser treatments for stretch marks are considered cosmetic, they are not covered by insurance.
Summary
In short, there is no “cure” for stretch marks. In addition, preventing stretch marks is not entirely within your power, especially during major hormonal fluctuations such as pregnancy and puberty. If your mother has stretch marks, there’s a good chance you will too.
Only you can decide if a 20% to 60% improvement in the appearance of stretch marks is worth multiple trips to the plastic surgeon’s office (not to mention spending a few thousand dollars).
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