If you are considering getting laser therapy to remove stretch marks, there are a few things you should know. First, there is the cost of the treatment. Secondly, there are side effects. Thirdly, you should be aware of the effectiveness of the procedure. Finally, you should be familiar with the types of lasers available.
Cost
Laser therapy to remove stretch marks is a breakthrough procedure. Not only is it effective, it is also safe. Unlike surgery, it can be performed on patients with any skin type. However, the cost of treatment varies widely depending on the number of sessions needed and the severity of the stretch marks.
Doctors often use a combination of lasers and other treatments to treat stretch marks. One type of laser, called an ablative laser, works by destroying the top layer of skin. This results in tiny burns and scabs.
Another type of laser, called a non-ablative laser, targets the skin’s inner layers. It promotes collagen growth from the inside out. These treatments are less aggressive, have little recovery time, and are more comfortable for patients. Non-ablative lasers can take as few as two to four months for full results.
A more popular laser, a fractional laser, penetrates the skin to break down old cells and produce new collagen. Some minor side effects include swelling and redness.
Fractional laser vs VBeam laser
A fractional laser is used to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. It delivers pulses of light to the underlying layers of skin, breaking down dark pigmented cells and promoting new collagen and elastin production.
Unlike traditional surgical options, fractional lasers are less invasive and have minimal downtime. Depending on the severity of your stretch marks, you might need to undergo several treatments. Typically, a few sessions will improve your overall texture and color. However, if you’re considering a laser treatment, you’ll want to make sure your doctor is experienced and knowledgeable.
There are two types of lasers that surgeons use for skin resurfacing. Ablative lasers can cause bleeding and raw skin, while non-ablative lasers are much more popular.
Depending on the type of laser you choose, you might experience minor side effects such as blisters and swelling. You may also need to wait a few weeks between treatments.
During your first session, your esthetician will apply a topical anesthetic to the area. The laser will then be moved over your skin and the anesthetic will work to numb the skin. This will take around 30 to 90 minutes.
Radiofrequency microneedling
Radiofrequency microneedling is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve your skin. It stimulates your body’s natural healing process to produce new collagen and elastin. As a result, your skin becomes smoother and firmer. This treatment is a safe way to treat several skin conditions.
During the treatment, a radiofrequency device creates microscopic puncture wounds in your skin. The energy emitted by the radiofrequency creates a thermal injury, which causes your body to respond.
Microneedling is used to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Typically, this method requires three or four treatments.
While most people will experience some swelling and redness during the procedure, this usually goes away within a day or two. Patients are then able to resume normal activities. For best results, a topical anesthetic should be applied before the treatment. A local anesthetic can also be injected to numb the area.
Radiofrequency microneedling can also target other issues, such as fine lines and wrinkles, scars, and hyperhidrosis. In addition, it can help your skin tighten and reduce oil production.
Side effects
If you are considering laser therapy to remove stretch marks, you should first talk to an expert. This is a safe procedure that is usually very effective. However, there are some potential side effects that you need to consider.
The most common side effect is skin irritation. This can include redness, swelling, and itching. These symptoms are temporary and usually go away after a few days.
Another possible side effect is hyperpigmentation. This can occur in darker skin types. It is rare, though.
Using a topical numbing cream before and during the treatment may also be beneficial. Typically, you will need to wait three to four weeks before your next session.
For most patients, a single session is enough to treat stretch marks. Other patients may require more than one treatment. Your provider may also offer discounts if you plan to schedule more than one session.
During the laser session, you will be numbed with a topical anesthetic. You will then be exposed to concentrated rays of light. Depending on the size and type of stretch mark, the treatment will last between 15 and 30 minutes.