The CO2 laser is part of the treatment for stretch marks and has been gaining popularity in recent years. The fundamentals of laser technology were studied by Albert Einstein in 1917, and it involves the emission of light particles. One of the main physical characteristics of a laser is its monochromatic color, meaning it emits a well-defined wavelength. The Fractional CO2 Laser (carbon dioxide) is the most commonly used in dermatology. It was introduced in 1964 and was created by Kumar Patel.
The laser treatment for stretch marks is effective because the CO2 laser stimulates the production of collagen, a nutrient that helps the skin appear healthier.
In short, when we want to renew skin affected by stretch marks, it is important to deliver heat to the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate the safe and effective production of collagen. The big difference with the CO2 laser used at our Skin Clinic is that it is Fractional and Pulsed, considered the gold standard technology available on the market.
This works because the laser used in the stretch mark treatment is fractional and pulsed. The key advantage of pulsed technology is that the skin is not burned, as the laser is delivered in multiple pulses (gradually) to the deep layers of the tissue.
In this way, the heat works to renew the skin without causing the superficial burns typically seen with purely fractional lasers (common in dermatology clinics). Want to learn more about how it works? Keep reading our article to find out.
Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks – Dr. Szerman Explains:
Fractional Laser vs. Non-Fractional Laser
The Fractional Laser (the one that creates small squares on the skin) emerged in 2004 as an evolution of the non-fractional laser (introduced in 1980). It targets only small fractions of the skin (hence the name “fractional”), causing less pain and delivering more satisfactory results.
Fractional Laser treatment is considered safer because, as it does not target the entire skin area, the untouched areas help in the recovery of the treated skin. In other words, the intact skin aids in the recovery and renewal of the skin affected by the Laser. To summarize, the advantages of Fractional Laser are:
- Fewer side effects
- Faster recovery after the procedure
- More tolerable in terms of pain
The CO2 fractional laser brought many benefits to treatments, but the technology evolved even further. In 2017, the Pulsed CO2 Laser (also fractional) emerged as the gold standard for stretch mark treatments. This is because this laser (DEKA) controls the heat emitted in the form of pulses (hence the name “pulsed”), which are delivered to the skin.
Did you know that heat is the best way to stimulate collagen production? Yes, and that’s why your skin is heated in the deep layers with this laser. Unlike the CO2 fractional laser, where the skin is just burned after sessions without obtaining the necessary heat to produce collagen (new skin), the Pulsed CO2 Laser effectively heats the skin to stimulate collagen production.
To summarize: with the Laser we use (CO2 Fractional and Pulsed), the heat is properly distributed on your skin, and it is this heat that will promote rejuvenation and improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Where do stretch marks come from?
Our skin has some limitations, the biggest one being elasticity. When it stretches too quickly, the collagen and elastin fibers can’t stretch enough and end up tearing. As a result, it’s common for stretch marks to develop.
Imagine an elastic band that stretches until it can’t handle it anymore and then breaks; that’s a good way to understand how stretch marks form.
This is why pregnant women often develop stretch marks, typically at the end of pregnancy when the belly grows rapidly. It’s also common for teenagers to see them appear during puberty as their bodies stretch very quickly.
Causes
The main causes of stretch marks include: rapid skin growth, the use of certain medications (such as corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory drugs), weightlifting, genetic factors, pregnancy, and hormonal changes. Wearing very tight clothing can also contribute to their appearance.
Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks
Laser treatment for stretch marks has become very popular in recent years and is also one of the most effective options. As explained above, it stimulates certain areas of the skin to rejuvenate and produce more collagen.
A positive factor is that CO2 Laser treatment can be performed regardless of when the stretch marks appeared. However, its effectiveness will vary depending on the severity of the stretch marks (size and thickness).
It is known that the laser tends to be more effective on newer (reddish) stretch marks than on older (white) ones. Nevertheless, the laser typically helps minimize and soften them, providing satisfaction to patients who want to reduce their appearance.
It is important to know that laser treatment, even for older (white) stretch marks, helps reduce their size and stimulates collagen production in your skin.
The number of sessions varies because it depends on the size and color of the stretch marks, as well as an individual response to the treatment. However, it is essential to undergo a thorough evaluation beforehand, so that your dermatologist can plan an appropriate treatment for you.
Did you know that each laser treatment for stretch marks should be personalized according to the patient’s clinical condition? Yes, because while some patients may need more sessions, others require fewer.
Take advantage of our free online test and discover the best treatment for your case!
Does the Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks Hurt a Lot?
A common question before undergoing any aesthetic procedure is: Does it hurt a lot? Don’t worry! It really depends on the type of laser used and the protocol followed by the doctor (equipment calibration and prescribed creams before and after the treatment).
The Fractional and Pulsed Laser we use is generally well tolerated, as it works through heat and not by burning, as explained above. In addition to a cold jet (which reaches -30°C), we use an anesthetic during the sessions.
It’s important to mention that after the sessions, it’s common to experience mild redness and swelling (due to the heat from the laser, which helps produce collagen) and tiny scabs (micro-points), which usually disappear after about 15 days with the use of healing creams prescribed by the doctor.
The dermatologists at the Skin Clinic have over 20 years of experience and will prescribe all the necessary medications to assist you during both the pre-treatment and post-treatment stages. Therefore, it’s very important to always consult experienced doctors to achieve satisfactory results and avoid unwanted side effects.
When choosing your procedure, make sure to research the professional and the technology that will be used in your laser treatment for stretch marks. As we mentioned, Fractional and Pulsed CO2 Laser is very different from just Fractional CO2 Laser. Be sure to differentiate between them!
Pre- and Post-Treatment Care for Aesthetic Procedures
Before starting your session, it is crucial that your skin is clean, free of oil, and without any intense tanning. Remember that your skin may show mild redness after the laser treatment, which usually fades within a few days. It is also normal to develop tiny scabs following the laser sessions.
You must diligently use the healing creams that will be prescribed by your dermatologist. Additionally, it’s very important to avoid sun exposure as much as possible and to apply sunscreen correctly. Here’s a valuable tip from Dr. Szerman:
“Do not apply any chemicals, other than the prescribed healing creams, during the first 48 hours after your session, as it can irritate the skin, which is still sensitive from the laser treatment. We recommend completely avoiding the sun in the first few days and only applying sunscreen once the scab from the laser treatment has formed.”
Questions about Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks? Check our FAQ by clicking here.
Testimonials
Check out the following testimonials from those who underwent laser treatment for stretch marks at the Skin Clinic and see what they have to say about the procedure:
FAQ
How much does a laser session for stretch marks cost?
The cost of each session typically varies depending on factors such as the size of the area to be treated, the technology used, the professional performing the procedure, and other factors. Therefore, the best way to find out the exact price for each session is to schedule an initial consultation for an evaluation with the dermatologist.
Can stretch marks be removed with laser?
Laser treatment is considered the gold standard for treating stretch marks. However, it does not completely remove them. The laser’s light beams penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and softening the appearance of the stretch marks.
Are there any contraindications?
Laser treatment is generally not recommended for people with coagulation disorders or skin conditions such as lupus, vitiligo, and others. Individuals with photosensitive diseases, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women, should also avoid the procedure.
Start Increasing Your Protein Intake
Adequate protein consumption can assist in collagen production. This is because the heat from the laser is the most advanced treatment for stimulating collagen production, and certain foods help in forming the necessary substrates for the body to produce collagen.
There are also collagen sachets available on the market, which may be prescribed by your doctor as a supplement.
Therefore, maintain a healthy, protein-rich diet.
Which foods help contribute to this amino acid?
Here are some examples: fish, chicken, gelatin, salmon, shrimp, and red meat. All of these are excellent sources of amino acids. But don’t forget that the gold standard treatment for stretch marks is Fractionated and Pulsed CO2 Laser, as it generates the heat necessary for collagen formation.
Finally, if you liked our article on Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks, why not read more on the topic? Also, feel free to check out the complete article on Prevention and Treatment for Stretch Marks!
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Nossos profissionais
Dr. Guilherme Szerman
CRM 5276961-4
Experiência Clínica desde 2010 | Diretor técnico do instituto e Clínica
O Dr. Guilherme Szerman desenvolveu uma metodologia exclusiva aplicada tanto na Clínica quanto no instituto, transformando Faces com foco no “hands on”. Ou seja, você aprende não somente com a base teórica, mas nas vivências da sua prática profissional.
Alinhando talento pessoal e a busca de uma didática simples e de fácil memorização, o Dr. Guilherme é um dos grandes promotores da saúde estética na Harmonização Facial.
Sua experiência está baseada não só na prática clínica da Harmonização Facial, mas na ministração de mais de 100 cursos de Harmonização Facial na modalidade presencial e mais de 5.000 alunos nos cursos online, levando conhecimento para o Brasil e exterior.
Dr. Waldemar Szerman
CRM 5213366-9
Dr. Ronaldo Szerman
CRM 5270032-0
Médico graduado pela Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ)
Membro da Sociedade Brasileira de Laser
Leciona cursos de Laser para médicos inicantes
Inúmeras participações em jornadas médicas
Tele-medicina e consultas em Copacabana e no Centro do Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
