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How a Dermatologist Improves Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a common skin condition as it is estimated that up to 90% of women experience them at some point in their life. Men can get stretch marks too, but it is more common among women. Pregnancy, weight gain, and rapid growth spurts can all cause them. Despite being a common skin condition, many people feel uncomfortable with their stretch marks. However, there are effective cosmetic treatments that can reduce their appearance. Below you will find helpful information on how a dermatologist improves stretch marks.

How a Dermatologist Improves Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur when your skin quickly stretches. This most commonly occurs in women who are pregnant or during puberty due to rapid growth. They can appear anywhere on your body, but are most commonly found on the stomach, breasts, upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. Stretch marks can come in a variety of colors depending on your natural skin color, including purple, pink, red, light gray, and white. While stretch marks are medically harmless, they can cause itching and soreness in some cases.

Stretch Mark Prevention

Stretch marks are a common skin condition and there are some preventative measures you can take to keep them at bay. These tips are helpful for your skin in general, but it’s important to note that they cannot completely prevent stretch marks from occurring. This is because your genetics and certain lifestyle habits can play a part in whether your get stretch marks. In addition, rapid weight gain and pregnancy can make it difficult for your skin to keep up no matter how much effort you put in. However, we have some helpful tips to consider if you want to ensure your skin stays supple.

Moisturizing is important as it is more difficult to damage hydrated skin. Stretch marks damage the connective tissue and collagen found deep under your skin. Keeping your skin moisturized and hydrated helps your skin in terms of elasticity. This cannot prevent all stretch marks, but it can help equip your skin with more strength through pregnancy or rapid weight gain. Another helpful way to prevent stretch marks is to address issues that may lead to rapid weight gain (outside of pregnancy). This includes eating a healthy diet, regularly exercising, and staying hydrated. Effectively managing your weight can help prevent stretch marks and keep you healthy overall.

Dermatological Stretch Mark Treatment

A skilled and experienced dermatologist in Tampa can help improve the look of your stretch marks. Due to how common stretch marks are, there are helpful treatments to remove them. Stretch mark removal in Tampa can improve the appearance of your skin and help you get your confidence back. Below are some of the common treatments that are effective in removing stretch marks.

  • Microdermabrasion: This treatment can help improve the appearance of older stretch marks. Microdermabrasion treatment involves the use of tiny crystals to polish your skin. These tiny crystals help reveal new skin under your stretch marks to effectively minimize their appearance.
  • Microneedling: This minimally invasive procedure involves pricking the skin with tiny sterilized needles. The process causes your body to produce more collagen and elastin, which can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
  • Laser Therapy: Laser technology is precise and effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Medical lasers improve the look of your skin by stimulating collagen production.

The first step in determining which treatment option is right for you is scheduling a consultation with a skilled and experienced dermatologist. The team at Lombardi Institute of Dermatology have extensive experience in a variety of stretch mark removal treatment options. Contact their office today to schedule an appointment!