By Eve Bird, Advanced Nurse Practitioner and an expert in Aesthetic Medicine
Stretch marks are lines or streaks which commonly appear across the surface of skin.
Although they're harmless, they can be unsightly and don’t always fade over time, which is why some people choose to undergo a stretch marks treatment to reduce their appearance.
Who gets stretch marks and why?
The most common cause of stretch marks is weight gain or sudden growth.
Women are more likely to suffer from stretch marks, especially during and after pregnancy.
Teenagers going through puberty, or anyone who gains or loses weight quickly, may also be more susceptible.
For people with sensitive skin, stretch marks can be more noticeable – displaying as red or white lines – on the stomach, thighs, breasts or arms.
What treatments are available?
Some people with stretch marks feel self-conscious and are not confident when wearing swimwear or revealing clothes.
Thankfully, there are some treatments which may help make stretch marks look better.
At Botastic MediSpa, our practitioners are qualified to deliver two of the most effective stretch mark remedies…
eDS Micro Needling: This non-invasive therapy uses a Dermaroller to penetrate the skin, causing collagen to form naturally.
EndyMed Intensif: This exceptionally effective skin remodelling therapy emits radio frequency into deeper layers to stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Both treatments are suitable for all skin tones and types, but are NOT available on the NHS.
What is the stretch marks removal process?
Before administering your stretch mark removal treatment, our aesthetic practitioners will apply a topical anaesthetic cream to numb the area so you’re comfortable during the procedure.
If you undergo eDS Micro Needling, we use a special device to deliver a series of concentrated vibrations (which feel feathery, light and tingly) to penetrate the skin. This stimulates your immune system to create collagen and effectively repair stretch mark tissue.
If you opt for the EndyMed Intensif treatment, a combination of advanced radiofrequency energy and micro needling heats deep within the tissue. This clinically-proven process encourages collagen to form naturally as part of a wound-healing response, targeting stretch marks from deep inside the skin right up to the surface.
What are the benefits?
- Visibly reduced appearance of stretch marks
- Suitable for stomach, thighs, breasts or arms
- Help improve self confidence
- Firmer skin tone and texture
- A natural way to stimulate skin repair
- Suitable for all skin types and tones
- Almost no recovery time needed
When will I see the results?
For most Botastic patients, the contraction of the skin’s collagen results in an instant lift so the results are obvious after just a few days.
The treated skin becomes tighter, smoother refreshed and rejuvenated.
Repeat treatments can transform this short-term result into a long-lasting response by helping new collagen to produce naturally.
Does it hurt? Are there any side effects?
Thankfully, this non-invasive treatment is quick and relatively pain free – although it will feel tingly.
In the immediate hours after your treatment, you might look as though you have slight to moderate sunburn.
Your skin may feel warmer and tighter than usual, but this should start to reduce after a few hours.
Usually the redness will completely subside within 24 hours, but some people may experience it the following day.
Will I need any specialist aftercare?
Using tepid water can cleanse the affected area and reduce redness.
Applying some Aloe Vera gel can also soothe and calm the skin.
Avoid saunas, hot baths or showers and strenuous exercise until redness has rescinded, usually within 24 hours.
Fake tan should not be applied for 14 days before a stretch mark removal treatment and at least 7 days afterwards.
Make-up must not be applied for at least 24 hours afterwards.
Once all redness has gone, your skin may feel much drier than usual.
Avoid intense sunlight or UV rays for at least 2 or 3 weeks following the procedure.
Applying an SPF 50 sun cream is recommended on a daily basis during this period.
Who is stretch marks removal suitable for?
If you suffer from stretch marks (also known by the medical term Striae) which you’d like to reduce, this treatment could be ideal as it’s suitable for all skin types and colours.
It can also help to minimise the appearance of:
- Surgical or post trauma scars
- Tattoo removal scars
- Dark skin patches (Melasma)
- Skin graft scars
How many treatments will I need?
Some patients achieve amazing results after just one session, but this depends on your skin’s tone, texture and its natural ageing process.
For the best results, Botastic MediSpa usually recommends a course of five treatments.
If you have a specific result in mind or special occasion on the horizon, we’ll recommend a bespoke treatment designed to suit you and your skin.
In our experience, it’s important to commit to your tailored programme because it’s designed to provide you with the optimum long-term results.
How much does stretch marks treatment cost?
Botastic MediSpa has been proud to deliver stretch marks removal in Hull since 2011 – combining healthcare knowledge with extensive training for outstanding results!
Our stretch marks packages usually start from £500, but an accurate fixed-price quote can be provided to cater for the exact number of treatments required.
We are honoured to be the only provider licensed to deliver the exclusive Endymed 3DEEP Skin Science treatments in the East Yorkshire region.
Click now to book a stretch mark reduction consultation with our professionally-trained nurses or call 01482 652600 and discover which treatment is right for you - we’ll be pleased to answer any other questions you may have.
