What is stretch marks treatment?
- Microneedling. Microneedling helps fade stretch marks by creating micro injuries in the top layer of your skin to stimulate your body’s collagen and elastin production.
- CO2 laser. CO2 laser treatments help smooth the texture and fade the appearance of stretch marks. ...
- Fraxel laser. ...
- Tummy tuck. ...
Full Answer
Can laser treatments really get rid of stretch marks?
Depending on the age, visibility, and number of your stretch marks, your dermatologist may suggest one of a few different types of laser therapy. The ones we commonly use at Schweiger Dermatology are the fractional CO2 Laser, Fraxel, the pulsed dye laser, and the KTP laser.
Does laser stretch mark removal really work?
Research suggests that laser technology can lessen the appearance and, in some cases, eliminate indented marks on the skin. Aside from laser treatments, Dr. Zimmerman also uses exfoliation treatments and creams derived from vitamin A. So if the appearance of your stretch marks is bothering you, contact us to schedule an appointment. Our specialist can design a …
How much does laser therapy for stretch marks cost?
Jan 31, 2022 · No matter what caused your stretch marks, laser stretch mark removal is an advanced procedure that can provide optimal results and help you get the clearer, smoother skin you dream of. This is a non-surgical approach to getting rid of stretch marks with well-tolerated, no-downtime treatments.
What is the best laser for older stretch marks?
While it can’t get rid of stretch marks completely, laser removal may help make striae smoother, thereby reducing their appearance. Two types of lasers are used for skin resurfacing treatment ...
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks (or striae in medical terminology) are streaks that form in the dermis (your middle layer of skin) due to rapid changes in weight. They often occur during pregnancy, puberty, or in patients who have recently gained or lost weight.
How does laser stretch mark removal work?
Most types of laser treatment use light to penetrate to the dermis and stimulate collagen growth. The top layer of skin disintegrates, and the healthier skin underneath replaces it. Because these forms of laser therapy allow the skin to heal itself, they’re generally very safe, minimally-invasive procedures.
What are the different treatment options?
Depending on the age, visibility, and number of your stretch marks, your dermatologist may suggest one of a few different types of laser therapy. The ones we commonly use at Schweiger Dermatology are the fractional CO2 Laser, Fraxel, the pulsed dye laser, and the KTP laser.
What can I expect after laser treatment?
If you’re thinking about getting laser therapy for your stretch marks, it’s helpful to know what to expect. Talk to your dermatologist about how long your recovery period will be and what you can do to keep your skin healthy during that time.
What type of laser is used for resurfacing?
Two types of lasers are used for skin resurfacing treatment: ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers (CO2, Erbium YAG) treat stretch marks by destroying the upper layer of skin. The newly generated skin tissues will be smoother in texture and appearance. Non-ablative lasers (Alexandrite, Fraxel) don’t destroy the upper layer of skin.
How does laser removal work?
It works by removing the outer layer of skin to help restructure the overlying skin. During the procedure, beams of light are used in concentrated amounts to encourage new growth. While it can’t get rid of stretch marks completely, laser removal may help make striae smoother, thereby reducing their appearance.
Does insurance cover stretch marks?
Laser stretch mark removal can end up becoming quite costly, considering the fact that insurance doesn’t cover it. Still, there are some ways you can potentially reduce your out-of-pocket costs. First, talk to your provider about payment plans and discounts.
What is the best treatment for striae?
Ablative lasers are the most effective in treating striae, but they also have the most side effects because of their aggressive nature. Such effects include raw skin and mild discomfort. Your skin will also scab over before revealing new tissues around the stretch marks.
How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), skin resurfacing treatments of this kind have a vast cost range of $500 to $8,900. Each ablative laser treatment costs an average of $2,681. Non-ablative laser treatments cost $1,410 each on average, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
How long does a laser treatment last?
Depending on the type of laser used, the total procedure time can last between 30 and 90 minutes. This doesn’t include time spent on filling out paperwork, as well as prep time before the procedure. You might notice that your skin is slightly pink or red after each treatment.
How long does it take to see results after laser treatment?
It can also take several months to see the full results, especially with non-ablative lasers, says the ABCS.
How to remove stretch marks with laser?
The process of removing stretch marks with laser surgery works like this: 1 The skin is cleaned with a special cleanser designed to remove the oil and dirt from the skin. 2 A concentrated laser is used to remove extremely thin layers of skin, which cause a reduction in the appearance of stretch marks or how it can fade stretch marks. 3 The procedure feels like you are repeatedly getting pinched or stuck with a needle. 4 Many separate treatments are need to get noticeable results 5 Your skin may be red or irritating for several days after this treatment. 6 Treatments can cost between $400 and $1500 each at a dermatologist’s office.
What is laser surgery?
Laser surgery is a process that is carried out by a dermatologist who uses a specially designed light or pulsed dye laser to remove tiny layers of skin. It helps to loosen the collagen in the skin and also makes the skin swell in order to promote skin cell regeneration.
How much does it cost to remove stretch marks?
Your skin may be red or irritating for several days after this treatment. Treatments can cost between $400 and $1500 each at a dermatologist’s office. The laser removal of stretch marks has been subject to scrutiny, as many people do not experience the results they would like to see.
Is a fraxel laser a ablative?
If you’re not keen on non-ablative’s milder effects but are also scared of undergoing ablative laser, then Fraxel Laser might just be the thing for you. It’s a destructive procedure, but it’s not nearly as invasive or as harsh as other ablatives.
How long does it take for stretch marks to fade?
Nearly all stretch marks, however, fade with time, over a period of 5 to 10 years, even without treatment. Depending on your skin tone and the size of the area treated, laser treatment for stretch marks should take about 10 to 30 minutes per treatment. Most people required at least six procedures about a month apart.
Is halo laser resurfacing painful?
Still, it does not require any of the downtime typically associated with ablative laser resurfacing, nor is it as painful.
How much does a CO2 laser cost?
CO2 Laser Therapy generally costs around $2,700 but can cost more (or less) depending on the area of the body or the clinic you choose. Fraxel Therapy, again, averages around $2,000. The average price of a Halo laser session is $1,500, which is cheaper than many ablative procedures and might prove as effective.
Why are stretch marks red?
When they first appear, stretch marks are usually red or purple due to blood vessels showing through the dermis. Later, they typically fade to a white or silvery color which may fade over time or remain visible permanently. As annoying as they can be, these red or white marks are not uncommon.
What is micro needle?
The goal of micro-needling is simple: to stimulate collagen production. Using tiny, microscopic needles that are passed over the skin tissue, micro-needling devices create “micro-injuries” that naturally stimulate the growth of collagen. Of course, collagen synthesis is essential to diminishing the appearance of stretch marks, so it can be effective in treating these stubborn spots.
How does laser treatment for stretch marks work?
This laser targets the redness in newly formed stretch marks, directing pulses of light energy at the blood vessels to alleviate the red pigmentation , explains Dr. Frank. Your skin may feel warm during the procedure, but the experience is otherwise fairly quick and easy. “It’s a good option for reducing redness and slowing the scars’ progression when they’re new,” says Dr. Frank, though it won’t work on scars that have faded. How many laser sessions you’ll need and the final cost will vary, based on the area treated. Generally speaking, plan on anywhere from three to five sessions, spaced one month apart, starting at around $500 apiece.
Who is Melanie Rud?
Melanie Rud is a Chicago-based freelance beauty writer and editor. Melanie has held beauty editorial positions at Shape, Good Housekeeping, and Health. She now writes for multiple digital and print publications and also consults and does editorial work for major beauty companies.
Can stretch marks be removed?
As far as stretch mark treatments go, the hard truth of the matter is that there’s really no way of eliminating them entirely. “Treatments can make stretch marks fade but will not completely remove them,” notes Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. That being said, certain solutions are more ...
How does radiofrequency microneedling work?
“Radiofrequency works by heating the dermis, denaturing the natural collagen and resulting in new collagen,” explains Dr. Lain.
Can you take retinol for stretch marks?
Retinoic acid (such as tretinoin), which you can get only with a prescription, is what’s been studied specifically for stretch marks; if it’s too irritating, you can try an OTC retinol instead—just keep in mind that it likely won’t work as well.
Is it safe to use a laser for stretch marks?
According to Dr. Frank, both of these lasers are generally safe and effective to use on all skin tones to treat stretch marks. However, it’s important (as always) to choose a reputable, licensed provider, since there is an increased risk of burning and hyperpigmentation when lasering darker skin.
