Stretch marks: what they are, how they form and the main treatments –

Over time, it is normal for our skin to show signs and marks. Some are of genetic origin and the result of our lifestyle, like cellulite and wrinkles. Others appear because our body has gone through major processes of change – this is the case with stretch marks.

“Stretch marks are linear loss of collagen and elastic fibers of the skin located mainly in the buttocks, abdomen and inner thigh areas”, explains the dermatologist Dr. Fabiana Corio.

That is, stretch marks leave the appearance of reddish or whitish “scratches” on the skin and do not have any symptoms, generating only effects on the skin. female self-esteem. Who has never been afraid or even ashamed to wear a bikini or a more dug outfit because of stretch marks?

HOW DO STRETCH STRETCHES FORM?

“Stretch marks appear due to a large stretching of the skin, caused by various reasons, such as being overweight or a process of gaining weight in a short time, genetics, pregnancy, rapid growth and use of medications such as corticosteroids”, he explains.

That is, it is quite difficult to prevent stretch marks from appearing in adolescence, when we all go through the growth phase. The sudden increase in height, weight changes that happen “suddenly” and, yes, even the body genetics may influence their development.

No wonder, pregnant women invest in body oils and skin hydration routines to prevent the appearance (or worsening) of stretch marks during pregnancy.

Even so, it is possible to adopt habits that hinder their appearance: “The best way to prevent stretch marks is to maintain a healthy diet, with vitamin C, which will help collagen production, and avoid factors that increase skin stretching, how to maintain the ideal weight, have a healthy pregnancy, without being overweight, and avoid using corticosteroids”, explains the doctor.

WHAT IS THE MAIN TREATMENT FOR STRETCH TREATMENTS?

Before we talk about treatments, it is important to know that stretch marks are unlikely to disappear from the body. However, there are ways to soften its appearance – and this is where aesthetic treatments come into play, considering factors such as the type of procedure and the length of time those stretch marks have existed for their success. “Red stretch marks typically do better than white stretch marks,” says Dr. Fabian.

“The best treatments for stretch marks are lasers”, he continues, “mainly the non-ablative fractional ones, in which there is a replacement of stretch marks tissues by normal tissues.”

In this case, the sessions occur monthly, generating small scabs in the treated area that recover completely between 7 to 10 days. It takes 3 to 5 sessions to see the result.