What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are vertical scars that form on the skin during periods of rapid skin stretching, including pregnancy, growth spurts, body building and weight gain. They are very common, and affect 50–90% of all pregnant women.
Stretch marks are the result of damage to collagen and elastin components of skin. They are usually found on abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks and thighs. They may initially be pink to purple and then lighten to pale silvery-white. They may be itchy, tender and painful and cause one to feel self-conscious.
How can I prevent stretch marks?
Keep the skin well moisturized with nutrients that promote collagen and elastin production to allow the skin to stretch without scarring. MD Wellness Solutions offers several options safe for pregnant women including SkinMedica medical-grade silicone Scar Therapy Gel.
How do I use SkinMedica Scar Therapy Gel?
Start using SkinMedica Centilline Scar Therapy Gel after 13 weeks of pregnancy, or at the first sign of stretch marks during a growth spurt. Continue it scar therapy gel for 2-3 months after your pregnancy or growth spurt is complete. If treating established stretch marks, treat for at least 3 months and talk to your doctor about laser treatment to augment your SkinMedica treatment.
Apply a thin layer of SkinMedica Centilline gel once daily after bathing and drying the skin, and leave it on for 24 hours. The best results obtained by allowing continuous contact of SkinMedica Centilline with the skin. SkinMedica Cenitlline gel drys quickly and can be covered by clothing or sunscreen.
How do I treat existing stretch marks?
Laser treatment can improve the appearance of existing stretch marks by improving blood flow, collagen and elastin production in the dermal layer of the skin. Dr. Tkatch recommends a series of ICON 1540 non-ablative fractional laser treatments to improve stretch marks. If you are pregnant you will be evaluated postpartum to establish a custom treatment program.
Dr. Shelin Tkatch, MD, FRCSC, DPD
Dr. Shelin Tkatch, MD, FRCSC, DPD, is a distinguished board-certified gynecologist-surgeon with a diploma in dermatology, exhibiting a unique blend of medical expertise. Renowned for her keen eye for facial aesthetics, she combines surgical precision with an artist's touch to achieve facial harmony and beauty for her patients.Dr. Tkatch's commitment to research in vitality-enhancing medicine underscores her dedication to providing cutting-edge, non-surgical rejuvenation treatments. As an active staff member at Peace Arch Hospital and a Clinical Instructor at the University of British Columbia, she's at the forefront of medical education. Dr. Tkatch's holistic approach to healthcare and her membership in esteemed medical associations reflect her unwavering commitment to patient well-being and satisfaction. Dr. Tkatch's compassionate demeanor at MD Wellness Solutions fosters a safe and relaxed environment, allowing patients to embrace self-care and enhance their confidence through tailored treatments.