Stretch marks are arguably the most stubborn scars that occur anywhere on the body. While they are medically benign, they can negatively affect your skin and lower your self-confidence. But you don't have to accept them as your fate, as we have a new solution for you. Microneedling.
Now, if you're a beauty enthusiast, you probably know microneedling as a leader when it comes to eliminating fine lines, and wrinkles and dealing with hair loss. But that's not all. It has also proven to be a less risky, cheaper, and efficient way to get rid of stretch marks.
But how does it work?
If you're already thinking about how to get rid of microneedling stretch marks on your body, here is a detailed analysis of the treatment and everything else you need to know.
What Are Stretch Marks?
They are a type of scarring that appears when dermal tissue shrinks or stretches out faster than it should during its regular growth cycle.
They manifest in the form of indented and reddened streaks anywhere on the body, resulting in an unpleasant appearance that no one wants to embrace.
At first, they appear small and harmless, but as they grow old, they fade into whitish lines that affect your skin's general appearance.
Why Do I Have Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are normal and can affect any body part at any time. They are mostly caused by;
Pregnancy
According to the National Library of Medicine, approximately 90% of pregnant women experience stretch marks at some point during the gestation period or after birth.
It is normal for the skin to stretch, among other changes. This causes the skin to develop stretch marks around the breasts, back, and abdomen.
Weight Gain or Loss
Gaining or losing weight is a journey that needs motivation, and stretch marks don't help this case.
During either process, the skin stretches or shrinks, causing stretch marks to appear as the skin attempts to heal.
Puberty
During adolescence, the body experiences various physical changes. These cause rapid growth, and in the process, the appearance of stretch marks.
Medical Conditions
While stretch marks are not harmful to the body, they may be a symptom of certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's and Marfan's syndrome.
Cushing's syndrome stimulates the overproduction of cortisol, which causes the body to gain weight rapidly and causes stretch marks. On the other hand, Marfan syndrome decreases skin elasticity and causes stretch marks.
Weight Training
Are you exercising regularly, hoping to develop muscle? Well, the muscles will most likely come with stretch marks, which appear as the skin adapts to the increased muscle volume.
Types of Stretch Marks
The major classes of stretch marks are,
1. Striae Rubrae
It is the initial stage stretch mark that indicates stretching of the skin. As the skin stretches, protein fibers broaden and arrange in a parallel shape.
At this point, there are visible inflammation symptoms and the stretch marks appear red or violet. Additionally, they are sensitive, itchy and gradually widen with time.
2. Striae Albae
New stretch marks age and fade into this new type. Striae albae appear silver or white after the initial inflammation has come down.
Therefore, they are usually less noticeable compared to other stretch marks but they will still leave you self-conscious.
3. Striae Gravidarum
These result from the rapid growth around the abdomen during pregnancy.
As early as 24 weeks into the pregnancy, the marks appear on the lower back, thighs, and hips, and they may also result from increased cortisone levels and hormonal changes.
Other minor classifications of stretch marks include striae nigral, striae atrophicans, and striae caerulea.
Does Microneedling Help Stretch Marks?
Derma rolling gets rid of stretch marks restores the skin's smoothness and even looks over time.
When the derma roller punctures the skin, it triggers the body to heal itself, replacing the dead skin cells and getting rid of stretch marks. Microneedling accomplishes this in three simple steps:
● Inflammation: In the first week after the procedure, the body's response to the micro-injuries caused by the derma roller is increased blood flow and removal of dead tissue.
● Cell reproduction: After microneedling stretch marks, the body replaces the old skin cells with new tissue fibers. This takes place 2-4 weeks after the procedure.
● Rebuild: The new cells strengthen and take their places between stretch marks. This results in smoother and even skin tone up to months after the first procedure.
Getting rid of stretch marks requires patience and consistency, as a single procedure may not be enough to completely reduce the appearance of microneedling stretch marks.
Ideal Candidate for Microneedling Stretch Marks Treatment
Derma rolling is suitable for every skin type and effective in treating all stretch marks, regardless of how wide or deep they are.
Therefore, any healthy person can undergo the procedure to eliminate microneedling stretch marks, except for pregnant women and people with active skin conditions.
This is why it's crucial to disclose your medical history to your practitioner so that they can determine if you are viable for the microneedling stretch marks procedure.
The Procedure
The process of getting rid of microneedling stretch marks starts with extensive consultation with a qualified skincare expert.
This will set you up for the procedure as it exposes you to a detailed explanation of what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
Before the Procedure
There are many factors that affect the efficiency of microneedling results, and it all starts with preparation. That said, here's how to prepare your skin for the best results.
● Avoid sun exposure: If you must go out, wear sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid skin irritation and sunspots on the treatment area as this may affect the treatment's results.
● Take a break from medications: before the procedure, ensure you stop several medications, such as retinoids, blood thinners, and acid-based skin treatment.
● Observe: In the days before the treatment, search the skin for active acne, cold sore breakouts, and eczema. If any of these conditions affect the area you intend to treat, you have to cancel the treatment.
During Microneedling
On the day of the procedure, ensure that you thoroughly cleanse the area with the stretch marks beforehand. At the clinic, your dermatologist will apply numbing cream on the skin to minimize pain. This is because discomfort levels vary in different patients.
The numbing cream should settle for about 30 minutes before microneedling stretch marks begin. Then, the aesthetician will use a derma roller over the stretch marks, and the microneedles will create microscopic pricks on the skin surface.
The size of the needles your practitioner uses in microneedling stretch marks varies according to the type of stretch marks.
However, most of them reach the skin's deeper layer for maximum efficiency. Therefore, it may take longer than microneedling for other skin conditions, about 30 minutes, depending on the area to be covered.
Microneedling Aftercare
Immediately after microneedling stretch marks, you may experience redness, swelling, and sensitivity around the treated area. These are temporary and should subside with a few days of proper aftercare.
Follow your doctor's instructions, and these side effects of microneedling stretch marks will subside and completely disappear after a few weeks, depending on how well you care for the skin.
How Long Does Microneedling Last?
The longevity of microneedling treatments depends on the skin condition, age, and lifestyle. Microneedle results can last on average four to six months, but deeper scars and microneedling for stretch marks will require ongoing maintenance.
After a session, collagen production continues for weeks, but results are determined by sun exposure and skincare habits.
Prolonging the effects is done by having regular maintenance sessions every 3 to 6 months. Applying sunscreen every day, using hydrating serums and avoiding harsh products will bring about lasting results.
Skin Microneedling: Benefits Beyond Stretch Marks
Skin microneedling is not limited to microneedling for stretch marks; it is also used for treating acne scars, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, dull skin, and so on.
It increases skin absorption and improves the efficacy of serums like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. Collagen is produced at increased levels, improving skin tone and texture.
Though posttreatment the skin might be a bit sensitive and reddish, it starts to improve after a few sessions. In addition, the benefits last with proper aftercare (moisturizing and sun protection).
Boost Results With PRP
Microneedling stretch marks are effective on their own, but you can combine the treatment with Platelet-Rich Plasma(PRP) therapy for faster, more accurate, and long-lasting results.
You can choose to apply the plasma on the skin before or after microneedling stretch marks so that it is absorbed through the micro-perforations on the outer skin.
When the platelet-rich plasma is applied with microneedling, it enters the skin and penetrates into the inner parts. This promotes healing and stimulates the production of collagen.
The purpose of this essential protein is to start the process of replacing dead and dormant skin cells that cause stretch marks with new and even cells. And not just that, you get to reap the additional benefits of microneedling with PRP.
How Often to Microneedle for the Best Results
When it comes to skin concerns and healing time, the frequency of microneedling treatments will depend on your skin.
When microneedling for stretch marks, sessions are spaced four to six weeks apart so that the collagen regeneration is appropriate.
Deep marks may require six or more sessions, while milder cases will likely need 3-4 sessions.
As far as at-home skin microneedling is concerned, it should be done less frequently – once every two to four weeks as overuse can lead to irritation.
Long-term improvements can be maintained by proper aftercare, hydration, and sun protection.
Microneedling Before and After Wrinkles: What to Expect
Microneedling before and after wrinkles shows that the skin texture gets better. Collagen production is increased and fine lines are gradually reduced over time.
Redness and slight swelling may occur after treatment, but the skin will heal within days. With the fourth or fifth session, wrinkles become less pronounced and the skin appears firmer.
The use of hyaluronic acid or vitamin C after treatment enhances the results. Microneedle results may last up to several months, but if you want to preserve a youthful glow, you will need to have maintenance sessions every 3 to 6 months.
Microneedling Treatments: Professional vs. At-Home Devices
Microneedling is available in two forms: professional procedures and at-home devices.
Professional skin microneedling involves the use of medical-grade devices for deeper skin penetration and therefore more noticeable and longer lasting results.
Milder at-home devices are available which will still stimulate collagen production, however, they need to be used more frequently.
Professional microneedling for stretch marks and deep scars is safe and more effective than home devices, but they are cost-effective.
Proper aftercare (hydration and sun protection) regardless of which method is used, ensures the best results.
The Cons of Getting Rid of Stretch Marks With Microneedling
After undergoing the derma rolling, most people report a notable reduction in stretch marks size.
But still, it also has its downsides, such as the fact that there is no guarantee that it will work in older and deeper stretch marks.
Moreover, the procedure can also be painful if your dermatologist uses the wrong needle size or fails to apply a numbing cream.
Microneedling also has several complications, such as swelling, which can go on for several days and are severe in some cases.
Microneedling Stretch Marks Results
After using a derma roller to treat stretch marks, you must be looking forward to the microneedle results. However, it will take at least two sessions to start seeing any significant improvements in the appearance of stretch marks. This depends on the size and age of the marks and the efficiency of every procedure.
It takes the body time to synthesize collagen, so the results of the treatment are gradual. However, once they fully manifest, the microneedle results are mostly permanent as the scar tissue is broken down and replaced by healthy cells.
This means the stretch marks won't reappear unless the skin is exposed to the initial conditions that caused the marks. These conditions include pregnancy, hormonal changes, and an increase in body size.
Microneedling for Stretch Marks: How It Works
Microneedling for stretch marks is a minimally invasive procedure that stimulates collagen and elastin production to repair damaged skin.
When the treatment is done, it creates micro injuries which starts the body’s natural healing process. After a while, it helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and give the skin a smooth and even tone.
The improvement in skin texture depends on your skin type and severity, but multiple microneedling treatments can have great results.
Can I Microneedle for Stretch Marks at Home?
In the modern cosmetic world, a derma roller is crucial to any beauty enthusiast's skin routine. This is due to its efficiency, versatility, and affordability, as it can be used in the comfort of your home.
For general skin care, microneedling on stretch marks at home is an excellent alternative to the clinical procedure.
However, for stretch marks elimination, having a procedure at a clinic is the best option. It is safer and more hygienic, and you get more perks such as consultations and expert advice with the procedure.
Microneedling for Skin Tightening: Does It Work?
Skin tightening is also achieved through microneedling as it promotes collagen and elastin production in order to improve skin elasticity.
The treatment causes controlled micro-injuries that the skin naturally repairs, producing firmer, more youthful skin.
Microneedling for stretch marks concentrates more on texture, whereas microneedling for skin tightening works on the overall firmness.
Results are visible after 3–6 sessions and continue to improve over the months. Microneedling treatments can be combined with radiofrequency or PRP therapy in order to increase the skin tightening effects.
Summary
An effective and minimally invasive treatment for stretch marks is microneedling as it stimulates collagen production and skin regeneration. By following a regular session and proper aftercare and hydration, you will see a more even, smoother skin over time.
Depending on your skin type and the extent of stretch marks, results may differ. But, most people see visible improvements within a couple of months. If you want the best possible outcomes, consult a dermatologist, or some other licensed practitioner, to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Microneedling is an excellent, proven, and safe way to restore your skin’s texture and confidence if you’re looking for a way to do so.
Goodbye to Stretch Marks, Hello to Beautiful Smoother Skin!
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