Why Microneedling Stretch Marks Works

Depending on the source, stretch marks are said to affect 50% to 80% of the world’s population. That’s a lot of people. And although stretch marks are not painful or harmful, they can be unsightly, frequently evoking anxiety in those suffering from them; women, men, young and old, anyone can get stretch marks, especially those who experience rapid weight loss or gain, practice bodybuilding and/or have a family history of stretch marks. Of course, there are other risk factors, as well, but stretch marks primarily occur when the skin on the stomach, thighs, hips, breasts, buttocks, arms or back stretches or shrinks so much that the elastin and collagen fibers within it break. Then, as the body repairs itself, scars — in the form of discolored and depressed lines (i.e., stretch marks) — often appear. The good news is that there is a treatment that can potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks no matter the cause. Take a look:

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally-invasive, nonsurgical cosmetic treatment designed to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. It is especially beneficial when treating scars because it delivers thousands of tiny pricks to the skin that simultaneously break apart scar tissue and initiate a natural healing response from the body. During a procedure, a clinician uses a handheld device to lightly pierce the skin with 12 tiny needles. Because the needles are so small, the wounds they create in the skin immediately close over and leave no visible mark except perhaps a slight redness in the skin. Underneath the skin, however, microchannels have been created. These subdermal channels effectively break up damaged cells that have clustered together in the form of hyperpigmentation; they also leave room for new cells to grow.

Why Microneedling Stretch Marks Works

Intentionally microneedling stretch marks has been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of scar tissue and actually heal the upper layer of skin. You see, when injured, the body does everything it can to heal itself, and even though microneedling merely grazes the surface of the skin, the body registers the nicks it creates as abrasions that need to be repaired. It sloughs away the top layer of skin and infuses the area with nutrients to make way for the proliferation of new, healthy cells it will summon to replace the damaged ones. It also stimulates the production of collagen, a component of healthy skin that strengthens its structure, keeping it firm and smooth. Thus, microneedling stretch marks works from the inside out, triggering healthy cells to replace old, hyperpigmented and damaged skin so that skin becomes more pliable, even-toned and smooth, and scars — such as stretch marks —become less noticeable.

Want to Learn More?

Our team of clinicians here at The Institute of Natural Health offers a variety of medspa and natural health services meant to treat a variety of problems. If you have questions about microneedling stretch marks or want to learn more about the other skin and wellness treatments we provide, please contact us today.