Stretch marks (striae) initially appear as red or purple superficial scars that over time become sunken and white in colour. Rapid stretching of the skin results in damage to the supportive framework under the stretch mark. Microscopically the collagen and elastin foundation becomes thinner and broken. Because stretched skin is more transparent, small blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface are initially more visible resulting in red or purplish marks. Over time these blood vessels contract and the purplish colour fades to white.

Stretch marks often appear on the abdomen and breast during pregnancy or on the back during the adolescent growth spurt. Rapid weight gain and body building can also cause stretch marks on the upper arms, thighs and chest.

Pulsed dye lasers have been shown to improve the appearance of stretch marks, especially if red or purple in colour. The energy from the laser is absorbed by blood inside the veins under the stretch mark, which collapse and are absorbed. The purple or red colour is usually considerably reduced and often disappears altogether but a white stretch mark may remain.

Clinical trials have shown pulsed dye lasers can also lead to an improvement in older white sunken stretch marks. The laser gently heats the lower layer of the skin, stimulating collagen production that acts as a new foundation supporting the stretch mark and smoothing out furrows. It is important to realise that these older marks are unlikely to disappear altogether.

Because pulsed dye lasers do not damage the outer layer of the skin, little discomfort is felt during treatment and normal activities can be resumed immediately.

Our expert medical team has in excess of 15 years laser experience and have completed more than 40,000 successful treatments. Rest assured you are in safe hands. All procedures at Cambridge Skin & Laser Clinic are performed by fully qualified doctors and nurses. We do not employ therapists or technicians to operate our laser systems. To ensure the highest ethical standards are maintained at all times, staff at Cambridge Skin and Laser Clinic are never offered bonus incentives to sell treatments.

All consultations are free of charge so why not call our team of experts today?

Please Note: Prices quoted are per session and are an approximate guide only. If you require a more accurate pricing prior to consultation, please contact us directly. Although laser treatment may seem expensive, one must bear in mind the enormous acquisition and maintenance costs of the laser devices.