|
|
| Stretch marks occur in the middle layer of our skin called the dermis |
 |
What
is STRETCH MARKS :
We have three layers of skin: the epidermis,
or outer layer; the dermis, or middle layer; and the subcutaneous
stratum, or deepest layer. Stretch marks (also known as s tria
atrophica and striae distensae) occur in the dermis, the elastic,
resilient middle layer that allows skin to retain its shape.
If stretch marks formed on the skin's surface, they'd be much
easier to treat. When the dermis is constantly stretched over
time, the skin becomes less elastic and the connective fibers
break. The result is the markings we know as stretch marks.
Depending on your natural skin coloring, stretch marks begin
as raised pink, reddish brown or dark brown striations that
then turn a brighter violet or purple. Gradually these bright
marks flatten and fade to a color a few shades lighter than
your natural skin tone. They usually become less noticeable
over time.
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body where the skin
has been stretched (often as a result of weight gain). They're
most likely to appear in places where fat is stored: the abdomen,
breasts, upper arms, thighs and buttocks. They pose absolutely
no health risk and don't compromise your body's ability to function
healthily they are purely a cosmetic issue and need to be treated
accordingly.
| |
 |
|
 |
|
| |
Before |
|
After |
|
TREATMENT :
Laser treatments don't remove stretch
marks -- they simply make them fade. The laser responds to dark
colors only, so in the early stages, when stretch marks are
dark red or brown, laser treatment will be effective. Faded,
flesh-colored marks will probably not respond to laser treatment
since they won't be easily detected. A series of treatments
might be required for visible results.
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery,
a surgeon will use different types of lasers depending on the
color of the stretch marks one type reduces the color of dark
stretch marks and another stimulates the production of pigment-making
cells in already faded stretch marks. An even newer type of
laser therapy can also be used to stimulate the production of
collagen and help restore the skin's elasticity in depressed
stretch marks.
|
