Stretch marks, or striae, are a super common concern for many people, particularly those who have experienced significant weight changes, pregnancy, or rapid growth.
While they are a natural part of life, many people look for ways to reduce their appearance.
Fortunately, advancements in dermatology means there are several effective treatment options, but timing is crucial for achieving the best results, according to Eavanna Breen.
One of the most important factors in treating stretch marks is early intervention.
According to Irish aesthetician, Eavanna: “The key with stretch marks is to have [a treatment] done within the first year.”
This is because newer stretch marks, which are typically red or purple in colour, respond better to treatments.
As time goes on, stretch marks tend to fade to a silvery or white colour, making them harder to treat effectively.
It’s recommended to wait around six months after pregnancy or any significant body change before starting treatment.
“Give it six months after you’ve had the baby – so between six months and a year is the optimal time to do something with them,” Eavanna said.
This window allows the body to settle from the changes it has undergone while still addressing the stretch marks when they are relatively new and more responsive to interventions.
One of the most effective treatments is micro-needling, Eavanna explained.
This technique involves creating tiny punctures in the skin with fine needles, which stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
As the skin repairs itself, it produces new collagen, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
“I get great results with micro-needling,” she said. This method helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin, making the stretch marks less noticeable over time.
While micro-needling alone can deliver impressive results, combining it with other treatments can enhance its effectiveness.
One promising approach involves injecting polynucleotides or exosomes into the affected area.
Polynucleotides are naturally occurring molecules that aid in tissue repair and regeneration, while exosomes are tiny vesicles that promote cell communication and healing.
“When we inject polynucleotides or exosomes into that area and combine it with micro-needling, the results can be amazing.”
These injections work to stimulate skin repair at a deeper level, accelerating the healing process and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin.
While these advanced treatments offer hope for reducing the appearance of stretch marks, it’s essential to know that proper hydration, a balanced diet, and gentle skin care routines can all support the skin’s elasticity and help prevent new stretch marks from forming.
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