The demand for body contouring is on the rise as awareness of body disfigurement grows. Many individuals seek ways to conceal perceived imperfections with clothing or resort to makeup as a means of camouflaging areas they deem less appealing. Among the most common sources of body dissatisfaction are stretch marks, which can affect a wide age range from 5 to 50 and are particularly prevalent among females.
These dermal markings, known as striae distensae, form beneath the skin's outer layer due to alterations in the dermal connective tissue framework. The key components involved in this process include elastin, collagen, fibronectin, and fibrillin, all part of the extracellular matrix. The result is the appearance of visible linear scars caused by the excessive stretching of the skin.
Various factors contribute to the predisposition for these structural changes, such as physical transformations (such as pregnancy, obesity, or significant weight fluctuations), hormonal fluctuations (including Cushing syndrome and pregnancy), altered skin structure (due to chronic steroid use), ethnicity, family history, and more. In most instances, these stretch marks manifest on the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and breasts.
This topic today will help you navigate the journey toward a stretch mark-free figure with professionalism and care.
Why Do Stretch Marks Vary in Color?
Stretch marks can appear in different colors at various stages of their development. The initial phase of this pathological transformation often presents as edematous striations. It later transforms into a red or purplish, flat, or atrophic scar known as striae rubra. Over the course of 6 to 10 months, it may form a sunken surface that is hypopigmented (lighter than the surrounding skin color) often accompanied by fine wrinkling. This stage is referred to as striae alba. Striae alba can persist for years and may worsen due to skin thinning and decreased elasticity that comes with aging. In some cases, individuals with darker skin tones may notice their stretch marks appearing in darker hues, ranging from bluish to grey or black.
Stretch Marks vs. Cellulite
It's common for people to confuse stretch marks with cellulite, but these are distinct conditions with different underlying causes. Cellulite, unlike stretch marks, results from fat deposits accumulating beneath the skin and pushing through connective tissue, giving the skin a dimpled appearance. Genetics play a significant role in the development of cellulite, and it often worsens with weight gain and aging. Recognizing that cellulite and stretch marks can coexist is essential in determining the appropriate course of intervention.
Prevention
It's not always possible to prevent the formation of stretch marks. Many commonly touted remedies for preventing stretch marks have been found to be ineffective. Research has shown that almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E, despite their widespread use, do not actually prevent them. However, it doesn’t mean prevention is impossible, the best way is by maintaining a healthy weight.
Tattoo Camouflage
Cosmetic tattooing offers an innovative solution for concealing stretch marks by using skin-matching dye. Unlike traditional decorative tattoos, stretch mark tattoos involve a form of micro-pigmentation designed to blend seamlessly with your natural skin tone, rendering them virtually invisible. Over time, the cosmetic tattoo gradually fades, with the rate of fading dependent on how well the tattoo ink is absorbed and broken down. It's important to note that applying cosmetic tattoos to striae rubra (newer, reddish stretch marks) may result in darker pigmentation or, in some cases, hypertrophy of the tissues, as the underlying tissue is still inflamed.
Treatment Approach
Fortunately, stretch marks are not life-threatening, but their impact on one's life can be undeniable. Treatment approaches are tailored to both the underlying condition and the characteristics of the stretch marks. Below, we've highlighted some commonly employed treatments for a better understanding:
Treating White Stretch Marks (Striae Alba)
Microneedling: This minimally invasive procedure involves fine needles that stimulate collagen and elastin production. It effectively enhances skin texture, reduces the width of stretch marks, and improves elasticity. Multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal results.
Fotona Linelase: A combination of ablative and non-ablative lasers from Fotona SP Dynamis aids in remodeling stretch marks. This dual therapy boosts collagen production, resulting in skin tightening and improved skin texture. The number of sessions required varies based on the severity of the condition and individual response, typically ranging from 3 to 6 sessions to achieve the desired effect.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:
Treating Red Stretch Marks (Striae Rubrae)
Topical Retinoid: Derived from vitamin A, topical retinoids can reduce redness, enhance skin texture, and prevent the progression of red stretch marks. These products work by promoting collagen synthesis over a period of three to six months (Ud-din S. et al, 2015).
Fotona Linelase: This treatment targets blood vessels, effectively reducing redness and improving the texture of red stretch marks. The extensiveness of the stretch mark will determine the course of treatment needed. You should be able to see improvement after a single treatment session. Subsequent treatment for further improvements will be performed to target remaining vessels, irregularity of the skin, and tightening of the surface.
Other Innovative Treatments
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): Utilizing sound energy to induce local heating, HIFU triggers collagen production for skin tightening.
Microdermabrasion: This method exfoliates the skin and can enhance the texture of stretch marks. Note that microdermabrasion has a similar effect to topical tretinoin; however, significant improvements have only been observed in studies involving a high concentration of 70% glycolic acid peel.
Biostimulators: Products of polyneucleotide and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)-based injectables are good options to smoothen, tighten and stimulate collagen formation from within.
HA Injection/Skin Boosters: Hyaluronic acid-based injections and Chanel injections are well-known for providing essential components to hydrate and
improve skin texture.
Mesolipolysis: An injected signature cocktail formulated by dream clinic to break down fat and improve the appearance of stretch marks.
PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): PRF stimulates collagen production using the patient's own fibrin, which contains growth factors that expedite the healing process.
Our team of professionals is here to guide you through your journey to smoother, healthier skin, whether you're dealing with white or red stretch marks. Contact dream clinic today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving the skin you deserve.
References
Ud‐Din, S., McGeorge, D. and Bayat, A. (2015) ‘Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): Prevention and therapy of Striae Rubrae and Albae’, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 30(2), pp. 211–222. doi:10.1111/jdv.13223.
Goldman, A., Rossato, F., & Prati, C. (2008). Stretch Marks: Treatment Using the 1,064-nm Nd:YAG Laser. Dermatologic Surgery, 34(5), 686–692. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2008.34129.x
Wollina, U., & Goldman, A. (2017). Management of stretch marks (with a focus on striae rubrae). Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 10(3), 124. https://doi.org/10.4103/jcas.jcas_118_17
Kaewkes, A., Manuskiatti, W., Cembrano, K. A., & Wanitphakdeedecha, R. (2021). Treatment of abdominal striae distensae in Fitzpatrick skin types IV to V using a 1064‐nm picosecond laser with a fractionated microlens array. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 54(1), 129–137. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.23471