Treatment of Skin Striae with Laser

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What Are Skin Striae?

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Skin striae, or stretch marks, occur as a result of rapid skin stretching and are commonly seen during pregnancy, adolescence, and intense bodybuilding. This condition happens when the skin loses its elasticity and cannot keep up with the rate of stretching, resulting in micro-tears in the underlying dermal layers. Rapid weight changes during pregnancy and bodybuilding are among the most common causes of these striae. Unfortunately, while some improvement occurs with reduced inflammation, these separations in the skin often remain permanent.

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Laser Treatment for Striae

One of the most effective methods for treating skin striae is the use of fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. Although other methods like dermapen, plasma pen, and dermaroller attempt to create controlled damage, laser treatment is significantly more effective. The laser creates microtraumas deep within the tissue without causing bleeding, making the treatment process more efficient.

In response to these microtraumas, the body sends defense cells and fibroblasts to repair the damaged area. Fibroblasts contribute to the regeneration of the striated and lost tissue through collagen synthesis. An increase in collagen leads to the narrowing of the striae and the approximation of the edges of the stretch marks. While the treatment does not completely eliminate the scars, it makes the linear marks less noticeable and more tolerable.

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Treatment Process

Laser treatment for skin striae is conducted in sessions, with each session typically spaced 3-4 weeks apart. The treatment is practical enough to be performed during short breaks, such as lunch breaks. For very deep striae, local anesthesia is applied to ensure a comfortable treatment process. After anesthesia, the laser treatment is applied, with the duration of the procedure varying based on the extent of the striae. Post-treatment, patients can return to their normal activities and shower immediately.

Visible improvements occur in the skin after laser treatment. Even after just two sessions, a significant reduction in the appearance of striae and an overall improvement in skin texture are observed. While the marks do not completely disappear, they become less noticeable and more tolerable.