Stretch marks are narrow white or red lines that appear, usually across the surface of the skin of the stomach, buttocks, thighs and upper arms, affecting both women and men. So, what causes stretch marks and what can you do to get rid of them?

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks usually appear following rapid weight gain. Common causes of stretch marks include:

• pregnancy
• rapid weight gain or yo-yo dieting
• growth spurts during puberty
• family history of stretch marks
• health conditions, including Cushing’s syndrome and Marfan syndrome
• use of some corticosteroid creams

There are a number of different beauty treatments in Birmingham that you can try to get rid of your stretch marks. Here are just some:

Creams & Gels

Creams and gels can be helpful when stretch marks first appear as they can help them to fade. Hydrating creams will also help the skin to regain its elasticity, preventing dryness and further damage.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is painless and can be used in the early stages of the development of stretch marks to help them fade and become less noticeable.

The laser energy is absorbed by the blood vessels lying underneath the stretch marks, causing the vessels to collapse so that the discolouration vanishes or turns white. Multiple treatments may be required to achieve the result you want.

Dermaroller

Dermaroller is a device containing hundreds of tiny needles arranged around a roller. The device is passed across the skin, causing tiny punctures that stimulate the skin cells to regenerate and repair naturally.

This painless treatment lasts around 30 minutes and you will need several sessions.

Weight & Diet

If you want to lose weight and avoid stretch marks, it’s important that you do so slowly, eating a healthy, balanced diet. Include plenty of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins ‘C’ and ‘E’ to keep your skin healthy.

Banish Your Stretch Marks

If you have developed stretch marks and want to get rid of them, there are cosmetic options available to you. For more information and advice, please contact us at Fiona Cossick Aesthetics for a confidential chat.