We usually treat stretch marks with Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing. The use of a laser makes it possible to break up scar tissue that’s clouding the textural difference. While our clinics use a variety of lasers, the mechanism is the same. The energy from the lasers creates tiny “thermal destruction” in the skin that stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin cells to replace old, damaged cells. It accelerates collagen production, skin turnover and the body’s natural healing process.

For several hours after the treatment, the skin will feel tight and have the appearance of a “sunburned” look. The skin will continue to look “pinkish” for 2 – 7 days and any swelling, which should be minimal, usually disappears after 1 – 3 days. A course of 3 – 5 sessions at monthly intervals is usually recommended. Optimal improvement after fractional treatment is usually visible in about 2 – 3 months as collagen remodelling and skin tightening continues.

Results are often seen after a single session, however the most significant improvement is typically after 3-5 treatments. As your treatment progresses you will notice the colour of the stretch mark and scar diminish. Additionally, the texture of the skin will have a dramatic improvement leaving the area softer and smoother. The early stretch marks and scars, usually red in colour, notably have the most dramatic results, however all types of stretch marks and scars can achieve noticeable improvement.

Also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy and Micro-Needling, this treatment is aimed at stimulating the body’s own collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, including the delicate areas around the eyes, mouth and neck. It can also be used to treat stretch marks, skin laxity and scarring such as that caused by acne or chicken pox.

Medical skin needling involves the use of a disposable, sterile needles to create a multitude of tiny puncture wounds to the dermis which induces the release of growth factors that stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin. In the case of medical rollers this is within the papillary dermal layer of the skin where collagen and elastin fibres are located. Cosmetic rollers, used by beauty therapists, however reach a much shallower level where they mainly aid absorption of topical ingredients. This “damage” to the dermis encourages the body to produce new collagen and elastin, to literally “repair” itself, thus the skin becomes smoother, plumper and more youthful.

After the procedure, the skin will be red and flushed, similar in appearance to moderate sunburn. There will also be some skin tightness and mild sensitivity. This will diminish greatly after a few hours and within the next 48 hours your skin will be completely healed. After 5 days there is barely any evidence that the procedure has taken place.

Visible signs of rejuvenation are seen after just 6-8 weeks following procedure and continue for up to a year. A course of 3 to 5 sessions at 6-8 week intervals is usually recommended to achieve optimum results; however most will notice skin improvement after just 1 session. Each session is around £360 depending on the area to be treated.