Stretch Mark Removal with Laser & PRP – Smooth, Heal, and Rebuild Your Skin Naturally

Stretch marks, scientifically known as striae distensae, are a common skin condition that occurs when the skin is stretched beyond its capacity, leading to damage within its dermal layers.

The primary cause is rapid skin stretching, which leads to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers – the very proteins responsible for the skin's elasticity and resilience. When these supporting fibers rupture, the dermis thins, and the underlying blood vessels become visible, creating the characteristic linear marks.

Stretch marks are particularly common in various situations:

• Pregnancy: This is perhaps the most well-known cause. As the abdomen expands rapidly during pregnancy, the skin stretches considerably, affecting up to 90% of pregnant women.
• Rapid Weight Gain/Loss: Significant fluctuations in body weight, whether gaining or losing rapidly, can put immense strain on the skin, leading to the formation of stretch marks.
• PCOS or Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal imbalances, such as those seen in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or during puberty, can affect skin elasticity and contribute to stretch mark development. Elevated cortisol levels, for example, can weaken elastic fibers.
• Teen Growth Spurts: Adolescence is a period of rapid physical growth, and quick increases in height or weight can cause stretch marks to appear on growing bodies.
• Bodybuilding: Individuals who rapidly build muscle mass can also develop stretch marks as their skin stretches to accommodate the new muscle.
• Use of Corticosteroid Creams or Medications: Prolonged use of corticosteroid creams or oral corticosteroids can thin the skin and reduce its elasticity, making it more prone to stretch marks.

Typically, stretch marks most commonly appear on areas of the body prone to significant expansion and contraction, including the Abdomen, Thighs, Hips, Breasts, Arms (especially upper arms), Buttocks, and Lower back. Understanding the underlying cause helps in tailoring the most effective treatment approach for each individual.

Laser therapy is a cornerstone of modern stretch mark removal, offering a highly effective non-surgical approach to diminish their appearance and revitalize the skin. At Minnerva Clinic, we utilize advanced fractional laser technology to specifically target and improve stretch-marked areas.

Here’s how laser treatment works to heal stretch marks:

• Uses Fractional Laser/Light Energy: Our state-of-the-art fractional lasers deliver precise micro-beams of light energy to the skin, creating microscopic thermal zones while leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This promotes rapid healing and makes the procedure safer.
• Trigger New Collagen and Elastin Production: The controlled thermal injury stimulates the body's natural wound-healing response, prompting the production of new, healthy collagen and elastin fibers. This strengthens the skin's underlying support system, leading to a smoother, firmer appearance.
• Resurface Skin Texture: As new collagen replaces damaged tissue, the laser also works to resurface the skin's texture, helping to flatten raised marks, fill in depressed ones, and improve overall smoothness.
• Fade Pigmentation: For red/purple marks, the laser targets underlying blood vessels to fade discoloration. For older white/silver marks, it helps stimulate melanin production to encourage a more even skin tone.
• Minimal Downtime: Immediately after a session, the skin may appear pink or slightly red and feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. This typically subsides within a few hours to a day or two. Most patients can resume normal activities almost immediately.

Our laser and PRP stretch mark removal treatments at Minnerva Clinic are versatile and can be effectively applied to all common areas of concern. We regularly treat stretch marks on the:

• Abdomen (post-pregnancy or weight loss)
• Hips & Thighs
• Breasts
• Buttocks
• Inner Arms
• Lower Back

During your confidential consultation, Dr. Pragya Gupta will assess the specific areas affected and tailor a precise treatment plan to address your unique stretch mark concerns on any of these body regions.

One of the significant advantages of our non-surgical treatments is the minimal downtime and straightforward aftercare. Here’s what to expect:

• Mild Redness/Swelling for 1–2 Days: It's normal for the treated area to appear mildly red and swollen, similar to a sunburn. This typically subsides within a day or two.
• Avoid Sun Exposure, Scrubs, or Sweating for 48 Hours: Protect your healing skin by avoiding direct sun, harsh exfoliants, strenuous exercise, and saunas for 48 hours.
• Use Hydrating Moisturizers and SPF Daily: Keep the skin well-hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) if the area is exposed to the sun.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying well-hydrated internally is vital for supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
• No Downtime: You can resume most normal daily activities immediately. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended for body treatments.