Stretch Marks

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Stretch marks (striae) have always been one of the most challenging cosmetic skin conditions. They are caused by rapid stretching of the skin and occur during periods of rapid growth or weight gain. Sometimes hormones or steroid containing medications can lead to stretch marks as well. It is estimated that up to 90% of women who are pregnant will develop them.

 

Up until now, there was very little that we could do to treat striae. Retin A is often prescribed as a topical therapy, but generally does not produce significant results. Our providers have had extensive experience and success using the V-beam laser for newer stretch marks. However, this treatment is only truly effective when the stretch marks are still red or purple in color. Once they mature and turn white or silver, there was little to offer.

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The exciting news is that in February 2010, the Palomar LUX 1540 Fractional Non-Ablative Laser received the first clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of striae using a fractional laser. This new clearance allows doctors to treat the millions of people worldwide who have unwanted stretch marks.

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Ongoing clinical studies have shown that subjects treated with the Lux1540 achieved an average improvement of between 51% and 75% in the appearance of their striae, based upon a blinded review of photographs comparing the pre-treatment appearance of striae versus the results three months post-treatment.

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The Bellevue Laser & Cosmetic Center is proud to offer both the V-beam laser treatment and the revolutionary Palomar LUX 1540 treatment to our stretch mark patients. Generally, the laser treatments will take at least 3 sessions a month apart. Call to schedule a consultation today to discover which treatment is right for you!