The skin is designed to be very elastic and stretchy. However, if the skin is stretched very much in a relatively short time, this can lead to so-called stretch marks (striae). From a health point of view, these are neither a cause for concern nor in need of treatment. However, they can have a negative impact on their own appearance and therefore represent an unsightly disruptive factor for those affected. Stretch marks can appear on the stomach, hips, thighs and arms in particular and are more noticeable in summer when wearing looser clothing. If sufferers find the stretch marks on their body annoying, minimally invasive treatment methods are available to get rid of them permanently. A modern and effective method against stretch marks is radiofrequency microneedling.
How do stretch marks develop?
Connective tissue contains elastic fibers which, among other things, ensure that our skin can adapt and stretch, for example. If these fibers are overstretched, they may tear or be irreparably damaged. The connective tissue loses its restoring forces at this point. On the skin, this is initially noticeable as reddish to bluish stripes, which change to whitish to yellowish stripes over time. The appearance resembles light-colored and elongated scars.
Pregnancy is one of the typical reasons for the development of stretch marks. The skin on the abdomen is stretched considerably over a few months, which can lead to the well-known stretch marks. Apart from pregnancies, heavy weight gain or muscle gains can also lead to stretch marks on the skin. Congenitally weak connective tissue can also be a cause of visible striae on the skin. Changes in the hormonal balance also affect the texture of the skin and can contribute to stretch marks. For example, they can appear during puberty as so-called growth marks.
Can stretch marks be prevented?
There is no reliable prevention against stretch marks, as individual predisposition plays a role in the development of stretch marks. However, you can use simple methods to care for your skin and do your best to prevent stretch marks from appearing. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid weight gain
One of the main reasons for stretch marks is weight fluctuations. By eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly, you can actively help to prevent weight gain and maintain your normal weight. Although the right diet and exercise are no guarantee of completely eliminating stretch marks, they do provide a very good and important basis. - Skin care: creams and oils
Skin elasticity can be positively influenced with the help of creams and nourishing oils. Especially when the skin is affected (e.g. during pregnancy), additional care can provide active help and reduce the risk of stretch marks. An individual analysis can determine which care products are best suited to your skin. - Promote blood circulation
Good circulation has a positive effect on the appearance and health of the skin. Cold showers, for example, are suitable for optimizing blood circulation: Vessels and skin contract and then relax again, which is a good workout for the veins.
How can stretch marks be removed?
Once stretch marks have manifested themselves on the skin, it is very difficult or even impossible to get rid of them with home remedies or massages. Occasionally, they can fade slightly with a targeted care program, but experience has shown that an aesthetic treatment by an expert is necessary to treat them effectively.
We offer modern radio frequency microneedling (RF microneedling) in our skin center. This treatment combines two established methods to achieve optimum results. Thin and special needles, which are repeatedly inserted into the affected tissue, allow radio frequency energy to reach the deep layers of connective tissue. There it causes heat development, which triggers the production of collagen and elastin. This renews and rejuvenates the tissue; the stretch marks gradually disappear.
At the same time, the tiny pinpricks ensure that the body boosts its collagen synthesis and forms new, fresh cells. The new collagen makes the connective tissue more elastic again and restructures the appearance of the skin.
How many treatments are needed?
The first changes can often be seen after the first treatment. For optimum results, experience has shown that at least two to three treatment sessions are required until the stretch marks are barely visible. The exact number of treatments required may vary depending on the area of the body and the individual condition of the skin.
Advice on RF microneedling in Berlin
If you are bothered by stretch marks on your body and want beautiful, streak-free skin, you are welcome to come to our practice for a detailed consultation on RF microneedling. The method is very gentle and does not require any surgical intervention. Your skin is built up and rejuvenated step by step without prolonged downtime. You can arrange a non-binding consultation by telephone or online with us. We look forward to being able to help you!
last update: 07.04.2023
