Tattoo Ruined by Stretch Marks, What Now?
Stretch marks (clinically known as striae) is a term used to describe indented streaks or lines that appear on the epidermis after being stretched beyond its natural capacity. While they are technically indented, they may appear to be raised, at least in the initial stages of development. The surface phenomenon is caused by any one of the following:
Weight gain due to pregnancy.
Weight gain due to lifestyle changes (poor nutrition and lack of exercise).
Weight gain due to a medical issue (relating to the thyroid, etc.).
Relatively quick weight gain and muscle growth from bodybuilding.
Sudden growth spurts in late adolescence.
Genetics, as some people are predisposed to developing stretch marks later in life.
Medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome and Marfan syndrome, which can compromise skin elasticity and subsequently increase the risk of stretch marks.
Healthline reports that approximately 80-90% of women and 50-70% of men experience stretch marks at some point in their lives. Given how common they are, there is an industry devoted to the treatment of stretch marks. Treatments include laser therapy, micro-needling, and certain topical creams. They generally help reduce the visibility of stretch marks by stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture.
Despite there being some recourse, little can be done to undue the damage that may occur when stretch marks have appeared after someone has had a tattoo. Tattoo zones most impacted by stretch marks include the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, lower back, and even upper arms. Stretch marks can affect the appearance of a tattoo by distorting or blurring the lines and designs, which is likely what you have experienced and why you are here. While a highly skilled tattooist may be able to correct some of the damage, there are a number of cases where it cannot be done to client satisfaction.
So what is one to do, for a tattoo ruined by stretch marks?
How Laser Tattoo Removal Provides an Effective Solution for a Tattoo Ruined by Stretch Marks
Complete Removal of the Tattoo
Premium quality laser applied by an expert technician will completely remove the distorted and/or blurred tattoo. This can free you up to proceed with the above mentioned stretch mark treatments, if desired, or you can leave the canvas clean (stretch marks aside).
Fading for Cover Up
In many cases, the old tattoo can be “salvaged” if the ink is faded enough to address the blurred or distorted portion/s so that a skilled tattooist can redo certain sections of the tattoo. Alternatively, fading can be applied to lighten the design enough that a skilled tattooist can apply an entirely new design over top of the stretch marks. They may even leverage the indents and discoloration to work with the new design. View more on laser fading for coverup.
Do you live within, or are able to visit the Vancouver area often enough to undergo more than one laser removal or fading session as required? Tap the link below to schedule a FREE noncommittal consultation at our West 4th avenue studio
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