When a woman gets pregnant, many thoughts run through her mind including a few aesthetic concerns. It is undeniable that stretch marks are among the worries of pregnancy. The thought of developing stretch marks alone is enough to contribute to the anxiety that a mother is feeling. But fear not, this article is here to help you understand about stretch marks in pregnancy and why you shouldn't be too worried if you get them.
WHAT ARE STRETCH MARKS OF PREGNANCY?
Striae gravidarum or in simple terms stretch marks of pregnancy are scars that occur when the skin is stretched or shrinks rapidly. The stretching and shrinking of skin ruptures the collagen and elastin. Few factors have been identified as predisposing factors that contribute to the development of stretch marks. These include genetics, higher maternal weight gain, younger aged mothers, high pre-pregnancy body mass index and a high infant birth weight. The most affected body parts are the buttocks, hips, breasts, abdomen, and thighs. Statistics show that over 50% of women experience stretch marks during pregnancy which goes to show how common this condition is. They most commonly occur during the first pregnancy but have been known to occur for the first time in a second pregnancy as well.
PROGRESSION OF STRETCH MARKS
Stretch marks changes colour at different stages of its development. Initially, stretch marks may appear as red, purple, or pink slightly raised scars which are itchy at which time they are called striae rubrae. This phase of stretch marks are easier to manage. Over time they change into streaks of white lines referred to as striae albae about 6 months after delivery. This phase of stretch marks are more difficult to manage. Hence, the earlier treatment is commenced, the better the outcome.
CAN WE PREVENT IT?
There are many topical formulations readily available that are marketed to prevent stretch marks. Some of these include almond oil, cocoa butter and vitamin E. However, none of these topical formulations have been scientifically proven to improve the appearance of stretch marks.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO TREAT IT
Another thing you may be wondering is, can you cure it completely?
The answer to that is it cannot be cured completely BUT it can be made to be less noticeable. With several medically approved treatment options that we have here in Dream Clinic you wouldn't have to worry about stretch marks again.
#1 TOPICAL TREATMENTS Topical retinoid can lighten the tone of stretch marks but they may not completely remove them. This product works by promoting collagen synthesis.
#2 MICRONEEDLING
Microneedling is a minimally invasive collagen induction therapy. A pen with microneedles is used to make microperforations in the epidermis and dermis, thus activating the healing process and collagen production. This leads to tighter skin and improved texture thus reduces the appearance of stretch marks.
#3 PLATELET RICH FIBRIN (PRF)
PRF is an innovative treatment that utilizes patients' own fibrin to stimulate tissue repair, promote collagen synthesis, and enhance the body's natural healing processes. In this procedure, a blood sample will be collected from the individual and centrifuged to separate fibrin, which are then reinjected into the underlying layers of the skin. This initiates the skin’s natural repair cycle and improves the appearance of the stretch marks. This treatment can also be combined together with microneedling to achieve an even better outcome.
#4 PROFHILO
Profhilo® is an injectable hyaluronic acid. When injected into the skin, it improves skin hydration. Besides that, it stimulates skin cell receptors to counteract skin laxity and improve and restore firmness of the skin. This will help improve the appearance of stretch marks.
#5 BIOREGENERATIVE INJECTIONS
These are polynucleotide based injectables including Plinest, Newest and Rejuran.
Plinest & Newest contain polynucleotides (PN), a DNA fragment extracted from Trout Fish and is biocompatible with human DNA. The major difference between the two is that Newest also contains hyaluronic acid, which has a hydrating and volumizing effect. They work by stimulating the body's natural collagen production, which helps to repair and restructure the skin, resulting in a smoother, more even complexion and reduces the visibility of stretch marks.
Rejuran contains polynucleotides which are DNA fragments extracted from Salmon that help repair damaged cells and stimulate collagen.
#6 BIOSTIMULATING FILLERS
Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA)- based injectable is Radiesse. Hyperdiluted Radiesse contains a high concentration of calcium hydroxyapatite, which helps stimulate collagen production. This results in the improved appearance of existing stretch marks with skin tightening effect.
#7 FOTONA SP DYNAMIS NX LINE FRACTIONAL LASER
Laser treatment is a noninvasive procedure using light energy at specific wavelengths to repair skin cells. It is reported to be the most effective treatment to reduce stretch marks.
The Fotona SP Dynamis NX Line laser machine is a state of the art laser machine that is currently only available in Dream Clinic in the whole of Malaysia.
LineLase which is one of the settings in this laser machine is an effective and safe laser treatment for stretch marks suitable for all skin types. It fades the appearance of stretch marks while improving the overall appearance of the skin. LineLase is a 2-step procedure that combines both Fotona SMOOTH® tightening with ablative resurfacing.
CONCLUSION
Stretch marks tend to worsen over time so it’s important to take action now to have the beautiful skin you deserve.
At Dream Clinic, the treatment options are endless. You need not worry anymore about stretch marks in pregnancy. Contact Dream Clinic today to schedule a consultation.
REFERENCES
Rajab, F. (2023, July 11). Best practices for treating stretch marks in pregnancy. Dermatology Times.
Ud‐Din S, McGeorge D, et al. “Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2016; 30(2): 211–22.
Miriam, B. (2016). The use of anti stretch marks’ products by women in pregnancy: a descriptive, cross-sectional survey. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth.
LineLaseTM | Fotona. (n.d.). https://www.fotona.com/en/treatments/7234/linelase.
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