Laser Treatments for the reduction of Stretch Marks at rtwskin in Tunbridge Wells
Treatments for Stretch Marks & Atrophic Scars in Kent and Sussex
Before & After Photos
Stretch marks? We only deal in top marks! Stretch Marks removal Tunbridge Wells
Here at rtwskin we have a wide range of effective treatments for stretch marks that include: Fractional Laser CO2 or Erbium Laser Resurfacing, RF Micro-Needling, Dermaroller, Microdermabrasion and prescription topical creams. There are various home remedies and creams that may help, but to really see a difference in the size and colour, laser treatments are the best choice. Additionally, prescription Tretinoin cream, a form of vitamin A, reduces the appearance of stretch marks by increasing the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.
The fresher the stretch mark and the earlier you treat it, the better your result. Laser procedures alone or in combination with other treatments can provide a safe and effective reduction in the appearance of both red (early-onset) and white (late-stage) stretch marks.
We use Nd:Yag, which is a vascular laser for red or pink, newly appeared stretch marks and Fractional Laser Resurfacing (CO2 or Erbium Laser) for older, white stretch marks. Results are gradual and stretch marks will require several treatments. During a consultation our highly trained medical practitioners will discuss with you the best and most cost effective method of treatment(s) by assessing the severity and stage of your stretch marks, skin type and the desired results.
Our expert medical approach: We are registered and approved by the CQC, which monitors all medical practices within England, including NHS hospitals and practices. At all times we have a medical professional on duty. Many laser providers do not meet the high standards required for registration and approval. Our skilled clinical professionals have continuous personal and professional development training programs to ensure that all of our patients receive safe, highly effective treatment
Treatments available at rtwskin for the reduction of Stretch Marks:
1. Prescription Tretinoin cream (Retin-A). This works by restoring and rebuilding collagen which is a fibrous protein that helps regain the elasticity in the skin. It is more effective on fresh stretch marks when they are red or pink in colour. A low strength tretinoin will be used to ensure there will be little or no irritation. Note: Products containing retinoic acid should not be used if the patient is pregnant or nursing.
2. Laser These procedures work by using wavelengths of light to stimulate the growth of collagen, elastin and melanin production in the skin. Our medical practitioners can give advice as to which form of laser treatment would be the most suitable for your stretch marks.
CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing. The DEKA SmartXide2 CO2 Laser & RF System will treat a fraction of the skin at a time. The Laser will remove the stretch mark scar tissue by drilling many minuscule holes (thinner than human hair) deep into the dermis and simultaneously delivering heat to shrink and close these tiny holes. CO2 Laser light will also contract old collagen in the skin and the wound healing process will stimulate the production of new collagen. This will improve the skin tone and texture which continues for 3-6 months after the procedure. The result is gradual and requires several treatments.
Fractional Erbium Laser Resurfacing. This laser removes a fraction of damaged atrophic skin during each treatment and the wound healing process will stimulate the production of new collagen.
ND: Yag Laser : This is a vascular type laser which will eliminate redness and encourage the growth of collagen and elastin to strengthen the skin. It is more effective on newer stretch marks. This treatment is also suitable for darker skin types.
3. RF Micro-Needling Device. This is a more cost effective alternative to CO2 Laser Resurfacing that could be used on any stretch mark types –“new and old”. The micro needles are driven directly into the skin to a certain depth (0.2mm-3.0mm) and radiofrequency (RF) energy is then released inside the skin. Minimally invasive RF thermal energy creates fractional electrocoagulation in the dermis which facilitates a natural wound healing process promoting the remodelling of collagen.
4. Dermaroller – Collagen Induction Therapy. We often advise home use Dermaroller in combination with laser treatments. Skin needling with a Dermaroller produces hundreds of tiny dermal injuries. Each dermal injury triggers the normal healing response within the skin. Successive treatments build new collagen progressively and this will gradually fill in depressed scars.
5. Microdermabrasion : This treatment involves a device which “polishes” the skin’s surface. The top layer of the skin is gently removed, stimulating growth of new skin cells. This treatment could be effective for fresh stretch marks.
6. Excimer laser: This laser activates melanocytes, changing the colour of your skin so that stretch marks blend with the surrounding skin. We recommend this laser for white, older stretch marks.
All laser procedures will require a test patch a minimum of 24 hours prior to treatment. This is a standard requirement for safety and insurance purposes.
It depends on the amount of stretch marks. Come in and we will let you know, based on our experience, how many will leave your skin looking fresh and rejuvenated. You’ll see a dramatic improvement after one sessions but you could be anything between 1 and 5 sessions.
Come in and have a chat with us at rtwskin, and let’s give your skin the all-clear for a fresh, new you.
Take a look at our price list and you’ll get an idea of the range for treatments. Don’t forget you can join our loyalty scheme and save money on regular treatments, so that’s a lovely bonus. We will be open and honest about prices when we meet for a chat at the very first consultation, so that you can make your decision in your own time. And the consultation is free. So drop us a line or give us a call to come in for a chat.
Stretch marks, or striae, are actually scarring of the skin. The two proteins that give the skin its binding nature are collagen and elastin. These two proteins form the foundation for supple skin. When there is extreme stretching of the skin combined with a lack of these two proteins, it will cause a tearing of the dermis. When stretch marks are new, they are often red or purple in colour. However, as time goes by, stretch marks typically fade and will be white or grey in colour. Stretch marks can diminish but typically do not disappear completely. Hormones do play a big part in causing stretch marks which is why it is very common for teenagers to get them since their bodies and hormones are constantly growing and changing. Another hormonal cause is glucocorticoid hormones. Medications containing corticosteroids prevent fibroblasts from creating collagen and elastin needed to keep the skin taut; so it is very common to get stretch marks from steroid medications
Stretch marks are obviously easier to get than to get rid of. They are atrophic scars and banishing them completely not possible. However, the good news is, laser treatments do successfully reduce redness, diminish the appearance of white marks, and improve the texture of the skin making your stretch marks significantly less noticeable. There are different types of lasers that can effectively reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The earlier you start to treat your stretch marks, the better. You will notice a much quicker result.
Red or purple, fresh stretch marks best respond to non-invasive vascular laser such as Nd:Yag, particularly if it used in conjunction with topical Tretinoin cream and Dermaroller.
Older, white stretch marks respond well to Fractional Laser Resurfacing (CO2 or Erbium Laser) or RF Micro-Needling. We have found that DEKA SmartXide CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the most effective treatment of this type of stretch mark. Very good improvements can be seen after the first treatment. Most of our clients achieved 50-80% improvements in the appearance of their stretch marks after a course of 6 treatments with CO2 Laser Resurfacing.
