Laser Therapy: From Stretch Mark to Tattoo Removal
Laser therapy has been sent to us for very important reasons! Some of the best reasons are to remove those stubborn stretch marks and to remove that tattoo you now regret. With laser therapy, you can finally get your confidence back and stop worrying about how you are going to hide your stretch marks or cover up that unwanted tattoo. Our dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are here to teach you how laser therapy works and if you are a good candidate for it.
What to Know Laser Therapy
Laser Therapy for Stretch Marks
After pregnancy, your body goes through many changes. One change that may stick with you are stretch marks. Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of the skin. They can occur because of pregnancy but also from stress or genetics. When caused from pregnancy they typically appear on your stomach, but when caused by other factors, they can appear on your legs, buttocks, or arms. Although many creams and ointments claim to help eliminate stretch marks, the only effective treatment is laser therapy.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive option and the most successful treatment used to eliminate stretch marks or make them appear lighter. Prior to treatment, it is important to avoid sunbathing, tanning beds, perfumes or other items that may be an irritant to the skin and avoid aspirin. An infrared light is beamed onto the affected skin to help repair and regenerate the cells. After treatment, stretch marks will appear lighter, softer, and flatter. You will have an improved immune and healing response as well as improved blood circulation. Additionally, collagen production will be improved which helps to tighten skin and reduce inflammation. Side effects after treatment may include redness, a stinging sensation and mild swelling. Typically, up to 20 sessions are needed to see near complete results. Results are permanent but there is a potential you may need additional treatment sessions.
Laser Therapy for Tattoo Removal
Unwanted tattoos happen for a multitude of reasons. Thankfully, laser therapy is here to remove them for you. Other removal options such as dermabrasion or surgical excisions are available for unwanted tattoos, but the most successful and least invasive is laser therapy. Laser therapy offers improved therapeutic results, less scarring and less risk of infection.
Prior to treatment, non-aspirin products can be taken, and an anesthetic cream will be applied to the treatment area. A high-intensity laser beam is used to break up the pigmented colors on the skin. It only focuses on the tattooed skin, leaving the rest of your skin intact. After treatment, an ice pack can be used for any pain. Make sure to keep the area clean and apply the ointment given to avoid infection. Multiple sessions will be needed to fully remove the tattoo.
If stretch marks have been a bother or you are desperately trying to get rid of a tattoo, the dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute want to help. Laser therapy can take care of other things above and beneath the skin too such as destroying kidney stones, shrinking tumors, improving vision or treating hair loss. Talking to your dermatologist can help you decide what skin issues above or beneath the surface laser therapy can help with. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form. We look forward to meeting with you and discussing the potential of laser therapy.