- What is Stretch mark?
Stretch marks are caused by tearing in the skin/connective tissue,
either by direct trauma or by "stretching" due to enlargement of
tissue, such as muscle, underlying the skin and tissue immediately
under the skin.
There are three layers of skin: the epidermis, or outer layer; the
dermis (the elastic, resilient middle layer), and the subcutaneous
tissue, the deepest layer.
Stretch marks (also known as stria atrophica and striae
distensae or striae gravidarum reflecting their occurrence
in pregnancy) form in the dermis. When the dermis is stretched, the
connective fibers break, there is microscopic bleeding and tissue
inflammation, and healing occurs with scar formation. The result is
the markings we know as stretch marks. Stretch marks begin as raised
pink, reddish brown or dark brown lines that then turn a brighter
violet or purple. Gradually these bright marks flatten and fade to a
color a few shades lighter than your natural skin tone. They usually
become less noticeable over time.
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body where the skin has been
stretched (during pregnancy, weight gain, muscle enlargement
secondary to weight training, or direct injury such as occurs with
repetitive weight training exercises). They're most likely to appear
in places where fat is stored: the abdomen, breasts, upper arms,
thighs and buttocks. They pose absolutely no health risk and don't
compromise your body's ability to function healthily; they are purely
a cosmetic issue and need to be treated accordingly.
There have been several medical treatments proposed, but none are
really effective. Laser light seems to have therapeutic effects on
Stretch marks.
What is Laser?
Laser stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of
Radiation(LASER).
A laser is a light beam that can be precisely focused. It is used to
treat tissues by heating the targeted cells until they "burst". It
may also be used for cosmetic purposes, including removal of
wrinkles, tattoos, or birthmarks.
There are several types of lasers, including the carbon dioxide (CO2)
laser, the YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet) laser, and the pulsed dye
laser. Each laser has specific uses. The color of the light beam used
is directly related to the type of procedure being performed and the
color of the tissue being treated.
Laser may be used to:
Remove tumors
Seal small blood vessels to reduce blood loss
Seal lymph vessels to reduce swelling and decrease the spread of
tumor cells
Seal nerve endings to reduce postoperative pain
Remove warts, moles, and tattoos
Reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles
Remove hair
Risks of laser therapy:
Possible side effects,depending on type of procedure, are:
Bleeding
Infection
Pain
Scaring
Skin color changes
incomplete treatment of the problem
