Stretch marks are inevitable in most women during pregnancy and in individuals who experience growth spurts, quick weight gain or loss. If you have spent time googling whether they'll ever go away, the answer is no. Even the creams or oils that claim to remove stretch marks cannot completely do the job. But that does not mean you are out of options. There are advanced clinical treatments for stretch mark removal that are genuinely effective. These dermatologist-recommended treatments can significantly help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and improve your skin texture. Here is everything you need to know about stretch mark removal treatment, starting from why they form to what actually works for them.

Why Stretch Marks Happen?

Stretch marks form because of excessive stretching of the skin beyond its natural elasticity, damaging the collagen and elastin fibres beneath it. When these fibres tear, the resulting scar tissue shows up on the surface as red or purple lines. Several factors may contribute to the appearance of stretch marks in individuals.

The most common triggers include:

• Pregnancy: Stretch marks are more common during pregnancy and after delivery, especially on the abdomen, breast and buttock areas.
  
  
• Rapid weight gain or loss: Weight fluctuations and sudden changes in body volume can cause the fibres to tear.
  
  
• Growth spurts: Growth spurts, particularly during puberty, can cause the skin to stretch faster, leading to stretch marks.
  
  
• Bodybuilding: Gym activities that involve fast muscle growth force the skin to stretch beyond, causing the dermis to tear. Hence, you see stretch marks on your arms, shoulders, and thighs.
  
  
• Hormonal and Medical Factors: Hormonal imbalances, medical conditions like Cushing's syndrome or medications such as prolonged use of steroids can cause stretch marks.
  
  

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body that expands quickly. The most common areas where they appear are on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, buttocks, and upper arms.

Red vs White Stretch Marks

Fresh stretch marks (called striae rubra) appear pink, red, or purple. They're in their active phase and are generally more responsive to treatment. Over time, they mature into white or silvery marks (striae alba) — these are older scars and require more targeted intervention.

Stretch Mark Removal Treatments at Oliva Clinic

At Oliva, they offer non-surgical stretch mark removal treatments that are virtually painless and approved by the US FDA. The dermatologist personalises every treatment plan based on the type, age, and severity of the client’s stretch marks, their skin tone and type, and the size of the target area. Trained and certified dermatologists perform the sessions, which are carried out exclusively, with thorough pre- and post-care guidance at every step.

After your initial consultation, dermatologists will recommend the following three treatments as standalone or in combination, depending on your condition:

Laser Therapy: The primary treatment often recommended for stretch marks at Oliva is laser skin resurfacing. The dermatologists at Oliva use advanced US FDA-approved Pixel Ebrium YAG laser technology to create microscopic perforations within the skin, which triggers the body's natural wound-healing response. This action results in fresh collagen and elastin production in the target area, progressively fills in the indented marks and improves the skin texture. This treatment is safe for all skin tones and has minimal downtime.

Microneedling Radiofrequency (MNRF): Dermatologists may recommend MNRF to effectively treat both old and new stretch marks. This treatment is a combination of microneedling and radiofrequency energy that delivers heat precisely into the deeper dermal layers through microchannels. This dual action stimulates collagen and elastin remodelling and reduces the appearance of stretch marks.

Topical Medications: For new stretch marks, dermatologists may prescribe topical applications like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid to fade discolouration. They are best suited for still-developing stretch marks and not old or mature ones.

What to Expect at Oliva?

If you opt for stretch mark removal treatment at Oliva, it begins with their unique V Discover Protocol. It is their comprehensive 5-step consultation process that involves assessing your skin type, stretch mark type and severity, examining your medical history, and identifying target areas for treatment. From this evaluation, your dermatologist builds a customised treatment plan that includes one or more treatments and the defined number of sessions you need.

All the stretch mark removal treatments at Oliva are non-surgical and virtually pain-free, as the team administers topical anaesthesia beforehand for comfort. The treatments involve minimal to no downtime, and most clients return to their daily routine immediately after the procedure. The cost of stretch mark removal treatment starts from INR 3,500 to INR 5,500 per session, depending on the target area, size and depth of the scar, and treatment chosen.

Oliva has over 115 MD-certified dermatologists who are experienced in offering customised solutions to all your skin, hair and body needs. For its clinical precision, advanced US FDA-approved technology and result-oriented treatments, Oliva Clinics is the most trusted choice for many across the nation.

Do you want to get rid of those stretch marks and feel comfortable in what you wear? Look no further. Book your consultation at Oliva Clinics today!