Typical treatments for surface scarring don't work on the deep layer of the skin where stretch marks occur, so there are few options. The Fraxel laser system is a recent invention that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks on skin.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are scars that form when the skin is excessively stretched, such as during pregnancy, bodybuilding or growth spurts. Up to 90 percent of pregnant women develop stretch marks. The stretching occurs in the dermis of the skin, the middle layer, which makes stretch marks difficult to get rid of with topical treatments or other methods of reducing surface scarring.
Fraxel Laser
The Fraxel laser is a proprietary treatment system developed to fix skin problems including scarring such as stretch marks, and other skin damage. It works by directing beams of laser light into the dermis to repair damage in that layer of skin. Fraxel treatments can be taken in a strong single treatment or in groups of 3 to 6 mild treatments spread out over the course of a few weeks. Stretch marks are usually treated with the milder versions, which would necessitate a few short sessions that reduce the marks gradually. The lasers used in Fraxel treatment are highly precise, targeting only the stretch mark and not affecting areas around it.
Treatment for Stretch Marks
After application of a topical anesthetic, the dermatologist or technician guides a handheld Fraxel laser device across the skin in the area being treated, which sends laser light into the stretch marks. This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, skin components that build up healthy skin and repair damage in the dermis.
Recovery and Side Effects
There may be some redness of the skin in the treated area after using Fraxel laser treatment, but this quickly fades. There may also be some mild itching, dry skin or flaking as a result of the treatment, but this also dissipates quickly. The use of Fraxel laser treatment for stretch marks doesn't generally require any down time for the patient.
Post-Procedure Care
After having Fraxel laser treatment for stretch marks, patients are advised to avoid exposing the treated area to the sun for about three months. This can be accomplished by covering the area or applying sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Moisturizer can be applied to the area to help speed healing of the epidermis, the outer layer of skin, and to prevent drying or flaking of the treated area.
