STRETCH MARKS happen when the skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching. Although the skin is usually fairly elastic, when it is overstretched, the normal production of collagen (the major protein that makes up the connective tissue in your skin) is disrupted. As a result, scars called stretch marks may form. Most women (even men!) have stretch marks, which tend to show up on the breasts, thighs, hips and butt.

According to Dr Joyce Lim, it is best to address stretch marks when they are fresh so that they are easier to treat. Early fresh stretch marks are red and superficial and they are easily treated with the V beam vascular laser, the long pulse dye laser, in her clinic. Unfortunately most patients go for treatments late, when the stretch marks are white streaks. At her clinic, Dr Joyce Lim uses the Fraxel Restore laser
machine, which is able to penetrate deeper than other laser machines, to stimulate collagen which helps to push up the skin depressions. Fraxel treatment can target up to 30 percent of the skin’s surface with each treatment, stimulating the body’s own natural healing process to replace damaged skin with fresh healthy skin. As it is very precise, it is safe and effective to use even on delicate areas like the neck and chest.

What to expect during treatment?

As I have been disturbed by stretch marks on my chest for a long time now, I was eager to test the Fraxel Restore laser treatment. The clinic nurse first gave me a painkiller and applied a topical numbing cream on my chest. After 20 minutes, I was ushered to the treatment room and Dr Joyce ran the laser machine about eight times over each area. The pain was bearable and greatly soothed by her quick strokes and a fan blasting cold air held by the nurse. My treatment was over in five minutes and apart from my chest feeling a little sunburnt, I was feeling fine, and left the clinic with two tubes of Dr Joyce Lim’s Skin Rejuvenating cream to be applied on treated areas to aid its healing.

How long before results are seen?

Patients can expect two levels of results – immediate and progressive. Immediately after initial healing is complete, the surface of the skin will feel softer and look more even-toned. The skin tone and texture will continue to improve over the next three to six months as the deeper layers of the skin continues to heal.

Number of treatments required?

Depending on the extent of your stretch marks, but three to five sessions are recommended for best results. These treatments are usually spaced between two to six weeks apart.

Suitable for?

Anyone suffering from unsightly stretch marks, especially postpregnancy women or post obesity.