Stretch marks can be a source of embarrassment for your patients. Many wonder: can stretch marks be removed permanently? The short answer to that is…no. However, you can still offer your patients effective and non-invasive options to better the appearance of their stretch marks. It is important to discuss reasonable expectations after you evaluate each treatment option for the level of severity, as well as the age of the stretch marks. The following are safe, comprehensive, and practice revenue-generating treatments that can be offered to increase the confidence of your clients.
Microdermabrasion: Rejuvenate the Epidermis
This option is effective for those with moderately deep and new stretch marks. This procedure aims to rejuvenate the elastin and collagen by gently exfoliating the epidermis. Ensure that you communicate to your patients that it may take up to 10 sessions for them to see noticeable results. Clients will appreciate this option, as it is painless, quick, and effective. It can be an easy add-on to your service menu if you perform microdermabrasion facials.
Laser: The Gold Standard for Stretch Marks
Stretch marks can also be treated with a fractionated erbium laser. This is a viable choice for those with older stretch marks and can treat severe cases. A series of lights are exposed to the skin, causing the cells to absorb the light and bits of scarred tissue to be removed. This allows new skin cells to begin to generate, revealing a smoother appearance. Patients can expect long-lasting results, noticeable improvements after 3 to 5 treatments, and a short healing time. You can offer this treatment every three to six weeksuntil a desired outcome in achieved.
Tattoo: The Latest Innovation
One of the latest and most promising stretch mark treatments are inkless tattoos and medical stretch mark camouflage. The camouflage requires extra training in order to become competent at color-matching skin tones. Therefore, the inkless option may be a great start to try the method, as it is still helpful in reducing stretch marks. In the inkless technique, the stretched tissues are carefully damaged to enhance elastin and collagen stimulation. This will help the stretch marks to become lighter and softer when they are healed. Make sure to clarify with patients that they do not have any infections, skin diseases, or a history of developing keloid scarring. In stretch mark camouflage, skin tone matching tattoo ink is placed onto the stretch marks. The goal is to conceal the marks, not to erase them. Inkless and medical tattoo camouflage are excellent choices for sufferers of stretch marks.
With summer just around the corner, smooth and healthy-looking skin is something that everyone desires. Stretch marks should never be a source of shame, but rather a sign of growth and strength. So let’s embrace our bodies and offer our patients the opportunity to achieve confidence with these stretch mark treatments while offering innovation in the aesthetic field.
AAI Resources for Practitioners: How to Best Serve Patients with Stretch Marks
At AAI, we offer a range of online courses that can help practitioners better serve their stretch mark patients. Our courses cover topics such as skin anatomy and physiology, laser safety and techniques, and medical tattooing. These courses are designed to provide practitioners with the knowledge and skills they need to offer the best possible treatments for their patients. By taking these courses, practitioners can build their confidence and expertise in treating stretch marks and other skin concerns. To learn more about our online courses, contact us today.
References:
“Stretch Marks” – American Academy of Dermatology Association
“The AAD’s Shade Structure Program” – American Academy of Dermatology Association