From this article you will learn:
- What are stretch marks and where do they come from?
- What is the essence of laser stretch mark removal?
- Laser stretch mark removal methods
- What types of lasers are used to remove stretch marks?
- How does laser stretch mark removal work?
- Pros and cons of laser stretch mark removal
- Contraindications to laser stretch mark removal
- Rehabilitation after laser stretch mark removal
- How much does laser stretch mark removal cost?
- Review of cosmetic products for those who are hesitant about laser stretch mark removal
- Home Alternatives to Cosmetic and Laser Stretch Mark Removal
- What other salon procedures will help get rid of stretch marks?
Skin is not only a reliable protective barrier for the body. Her condition is one of the main indicators of a woman’s beauty and health. Unfortunately, it is impossible to preserve the skin in its original form; with age, it becomes less elastic and elastic. Although the signs of aging cannot be prevented, they can be delayed. But it is very difficult to get rid of such a defect as stretch marks. You cannot remove them completely, you can only make them less noticeable, and laser stretch mark removal will help you with this.
What are stretch marks and where do they come from?
Stretch marks, or striae, are unattractive pale stripes and scars on the skin, located in different directions and having different widths and depths. They are painless and do not pose a threat to human health, but they significantly spoil the appearance and cause the appearance of complexes.
Most often, stretch marks appear on the skin of the abdomen, chest, thighs and buttocks in women during pregnancy against the background of weight gain and hormonal changes, which causes overstretching of the skin. If you have a genetically low content of elastic fibers in the dermis, then this problem will definitely occur.
Stretch marks can also appear as a result of too intense training, during puberty and in the postpartum period. When the skin is overstretched, epithelial cells cannot compensate for the lack of cellular mass, so the skin becomes thinner and tears. During the regeneration process, breaks are replaced by connective tissue, forming striae.
The areas where the skin is stretched do not immediately become pale. After they appear, they have a red or dark blue tint, due to the presence of blood capillaries in the tears. Gradually, the blood leaves the vessels, they become empty, and the stretch marks turn white. It is quite difficult to remove this skin blemish; you will have to spend a lot of time and patience to fight it. The most important thing is to start treatment as soon as stretch marks appear, and not to postpone the procedure until later.
Fresh stretch marks that appeared less than a year ago and have a light pinkish tint can still be cured and completely removed even using home methods. You cannot get rid of old white stretch marks; you can only make them less noticeable using laser stretch mark removal procedures. Remember that there is no pigment in scars, and therefore they do not tan and become visually more pronounced in the summer.
Laser stretch mark removal is an effective procedure that can completely or at least partially rid you of this unattractive blemish.
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What Causes Stretch Marks?
As the name suggests, stretch marks occur as a result of sudden stretching of the dermis, for example, during pregnancy. They usually look like long or short stripes on the skin. In medicine, stretch marks are called striae (lat. striae gravidarum). Most often, stretch marks appear on the hips, buttocks, abdomen, chest, and sometimes on the shoulders. Their appearance is influenced by two factors:
- Physical factor. If you look closely at the areas where stretch marks appear, these are often the parts of the body that gain weight the fastest.
This stretches the dermal layer, causing tears in the skin. Stretch marks tend to appear with weight gain, which is why they often occur during pregnancy. Striae are also observed in athletes who quickly gain muscle mass. Since stretch marks during pregnancy are caused by excess weight, expectant mothers are advised not to overeat. But you shouldn’t limit your diet too much, because a lack of nutrients can become a threat to both the mother and the unborn baby.
- Hormonal factor. According to research, hormonal imbalance also affects the formation of stretch marks. A hormonal surge during pregnancy or puberty leads to a decrease in the synthesis of elastin and collagen fibers, as a result of which the skin loses its elasticity and ruptures.
Stretch marks often first appear during puberty, when a growth spurt occurs. Scars appear precisely during this period, because during the process of growth the skin continuously stretches, and much more than before. Another lesser-known cause of stretch marks is Cushing's syndrome. Stretch marks are a symptom of this condition, which is characterized by increased cortisol production, as well as excess weight gain and thinning of the skin, leading to the formation of purple scars.
There are 2 types of stretch marks
Stretch marks vary in color and shape, they can be divided into two types:
- Red stretch marks. Formed due to overstretching of the dermis. With red stretch marks, the underlying layer containing capillaries becomes noticeable.
- White stretch marks. These silvery-white marks occur when capillaries are replaced by fat underneath the dermis.
How to prevent stretch marks
More and more people are asking questions about how to remove stretch marks after losing weight. To answer the question of how to get rid of stretch marks, first of all, you need to drink more water and properly moisturize your skin. To protect your skin from scarring, follow these guidelines:
- Drink a lot of clean water every day - it is good for the whole body. In addition, this is a great way to prevent stretch marks. Scars do not form on moisturized skin, even if you gain weight or build muscle.
A common misconception we hear is that you need to drink eight glasses of water a day. In fact, how much water to consume depends on each individual. This is affected by the foods you eat, the medications you take, and the drinks you drink throughout the day. You can tell if you're drinking enough water by looking at your urine—its quantity, color, and smell. If you haven't urinated for several hours in a row, you're probably not drinking enough water to flush toxins out of your body.
- Eat right - by consuming healthy foods, you will ensure a complete balance of minerals and vitamins in the body. By eating a balanced diet, you can also avoid sudden weight changes that cause stretch marks. Eating a healthy diet also helps you keep your weight under control and avoid gaining fat mass, which is often the cause of scarring on the abdomen and thighs.
- Limit your alcohol intake—avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages whenever possible. Alcohol leads to dehydration, leaving the skin drier and more vulnerable to stretch marks.
- Moisturize your skin – use moisturizer immediately after your bath while your skin is still damp. This will help the beneficial substances penetrate the skin faster and keep the skin hydrated and elastic. Often pregnant women note that the rapidly stretching skin of the abdomen itches. Moisturizer also helps soothe itching.
- Stock up on vitamin E - it is famous for its beneficial properties for the skin. Vitamin E helps maintain collagen in the skin, thereby maintaining its elasticity.
- Use sun protection – Sunscreen alone can't prevent stretch marks, but it helps keep your skin healthy and beautiful. Sun exposure can make scars and marks more visible and also significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Use an effective sunscreen when out in the sun. Among other things, the sun's rays can destroy collagen fibers in the skin, making it more susceptible to stretch marks.
- Exercise regularly – Exercise helps control weight and maintain firm skin, which together reduces the risk of stretch marks.
The above tips are just some of the ways to prevent stretch marks from forming. Don’t despair if you have stretch marks, because at some stages in life it’s natural. This is just one way the body adapts to changes in its size. However, if you develop too many stretch marks, you may want to change your lifestyle to avoid gaining or losing weight too dramatically. Try the following remedies to help you say goodbye to stretch marks.
What is the essence of laser stretch mark removal?
What is laser stretch mark removal? The essence of the procedure is that scar tissue is exposed to a laser beam.
This physical effect stimulates cellular regeneration and restoration processes in the dermis.
It is thanks to this feature that laser removal of scars and stretch marks has become a very popular cosmetic procedure.
Laser exposure to stretch marks leads to the destruction of connective tissue scars and activation of cell division in this area. The destroyed connective tissue begins to be replaced by newly synthesized elastic and collagen fibers.
Gradually, with each subsequent procedure, the defective areas are replaced by epidermal cells, and stretch marks become less noticeable.
On the way to beautiful and healthy skin, a client of a cosmetology salon goes through four stages of treatment:
- Laser exposure.
Laser beams, fractionally affecting the surface of the epidermis, penetrate one to two millimeters into it.
- Natural tissue restoration.
The intense impact of the laser stimulates natural repair processes in tissues and the formation of new collagen and elastic fibers.
- Smoothing the skin with its own collagen.
Newly synthesized collagen gradually displaces the connective tissue that forms striae.
- Elimination of stretch marks.
In places where stretch marks and scars are located, smooth, smooth and beautiful skin is formed.
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Fillers against stretch marks
As already noted, exposure to hormones (corticosteroids, progesterone) and overextension leads to loss of skin elasticity during pregnancy. Its upper layers become thinner and, as a result, under load, internal micro-tears of collagen and elastin fibers occur, which are then, during healing, replaced by connective (scar) tissue.
In order to activate the production of new collagen and elastin, fillers containing special components are used. For example, calcium hydroxyapatite (Radiesse), polycaprolactone (Ellans), polylactic acid (Sculptra, Estefil).
Once in the skin, these components stimulate the production of new young collagen, which tightens the skin.
At the site of injection of the gel, their own collagen fibers begin to form, as a result of which full-fledged tissue appears in place of the stretch marks. Stretch marks become invisible, similar to the surrounding healthy skin.
This therapy is effective at any age of the patient, for the treatment of both recently occurring and old stretch marks. As a rule, several procedures are required to achieve maximum results. The introduction of fillers is successfully combined with other techniques, for example, peelings and laser technologies.
Laser stretch mark removal methods
Laser stretch mark and scar removal involves two different skin resurfacing methods:
- Full (classical) grinding is carried out with an erbium laser. With its help, cells are evaporated at the required depth and area, as a result of which fibroblasts are activated and the body’s work aimed at tissue restoration is activated. The depth of laser exposure is set individually for each client, so this type of resurfacing can be carried out both on the superficial and deeper layers of the skin.
Laser removal of stretch marks in this way is painful, so when treating small areas, local anesthesia is given, and for a large area of stretch marks, general anesthesia is used.
- Removal of stretch marks using fractional laser thermolysis - this method of laser removal of stretch marks differs from the previous one in that during the procedure the affected areas are affected fractionally, i.e. selectively, and healthy skin is not affected by the laser. This method gives a more noticeable remodeling result and is less painful and dangerous.
For the above laser stretch mark removal techniques, special lasers are used.
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Cosmetology can help
Before removing stretch marks on the abdomen after childbirth at home with various cosmetic compositions, you should study a number of nuances and follow them.
Most of these products are aimed at restoring the structure of the skin - increasing elasticity and brightening.
Scrubs and masks (3 recipes)
These are products designed to remove the keratinized surface layer of the skin. They also accelerate microcirculation and nourish the dermis with important nutrients. As a result, elasticity returns to the tissues.
The most productive recipes that are easy to use at home:
- In the bath or under the shower, coffee powder (natural) is applied to the soaped body and rubbed into the stretched areas. Such manipulations are performed once every 6-7 days.
- Combine 120 g of granulated sugar and the same amount of sea salt, add 50 ml of olive oil. Stir until creamy. Distribute the resulting mass, moving in a circle. After 10-15 minutes, wash off with warm water.
- Mix the following components: massage product (120 g), natural ground coffee (70 g), sea salt (50 g). Rub it into the defects for about 10 minutes, then get into the shower.
In the fight against postpartum tears, industrial scrubs are no less effective. They are sold in pharmacies. Just be sure to read the instructions first to avoid side effects.
Creams to help
Cosmetology retail outlets now offer a wide range of all kinds of creams against stretch marks. When choosing, they are guided by the biochemical composition.
Important components:
- collagen;
- retinol;
- vitamin supplements;
- ethers.
Retinol, in combination with other components of the cream, promotes skin regeneration. As a result, breaks that appear after childbirth become almost invisible.
The essence and benefits of wraps
The principle of the procedure is elementary - a special gel-like product is smeared on the damaged area, over which cling film is wrapped. Due to the greenhouse effect created, the body warms up and beneficial elements are absorbed more intensely.
Having gone through many wrapping recipes, I would like to highlight 2 of the most productive:
- Mix 50 ml of olive oil with three drops of lemon or lavender oil. The mixture is measuredly applied to the stomach and wrapped. The top is insulated with a blanket or scarf. Wash off after half an hour.
- Dissolve 2 pressed mummy medals in 25 ml of water. Add baby cream. The further sequence of actions is as in the previous case.
Wraps are best done after a shower, when the body is steamed.
Can't do without a massage
Perhaps the most effective way to get rid of a stretched tummy is massage. The main thing is not to use much force with your fingers when massaging, so as not to provoke new tears.
For the procedure, take any oil: rosemary, almond or eucalyptus. You can opt for a cream with vitamin E in its composition.
The technology is as follows:
- Squeeze a little product into the palm of your hand and begin to move it in a circle over the problem area.
- Stroke for 5-7 minutes, then switch to rubbing, lasting no more than 10 minutes.
- The final 5 minutes are lightly massaged again.
It is advisable to first use a scrub to remove dead cells.
What types of lasers are used to remove stretch marks?
Several types of lasers are used to carry out cosmetic procedures. They are classified according to their effectiveness and depth of penetration into tissue.
Excimer laser
For laser removal of stretch marks that formed more than a year ago, experts advise using this particular type of device.
The intense ultraviolet beam generated by the laser affects stretch marks, destroying connective tissue cells. After the procedure, a crust forms on the skin, which disappears after a few days. New covering tissues are formed under it during the healing process.
The excimer laser activates the synthesis of melatonin, which is responsible for the color of the skin, so that stretch marks acquire the shade of healthy skin.
Laser removal of stretch marks using a device of this type guarantees an excellent result, because instead of cutting or burning, the bonds between molecules in the affected area are broken down. Thanks to this, a healthy epidermis is formed as quickly as possible.
But this method of laser stretch mark removal has one contraindication. The procedure is prohibited for persons suffering from photodermatosis (allergy to ultraviolet radiation).
Dermal optical thermolysis (DOT)
DOT is the latest effective method of laser removal of stretch marks, which involves selective (fractional) effects on the skin.
A beam of laser beams produces a huge amount of small thermal damage in the skin, due to which the process of synthesis of new elastic and collagen fibers is activated.
This method of laser stretch mark removal allows you to remove old defects. That is why many cosmetology clinics actively and successfully practice DOT.
This procedure gives a number of positive results:
- the surface of the skin is leveled;
- the epidermis becomes more elastic and elastic;
- stretch marks, scars, scars, post-acne are removed;
- pigment spots and fine wrinkles disappear;
- White stretch marks are completely eliminated.
Laser Palomar
This laser is fractional and provides precise treatment of the affected areas. Microscopic beams of laser beams penetrate the layers of the epidermis and initiate natural tissue healing.
Laser stretch mark removal using this device guarantees the following results:
- disappearance of stretch marks that occurred during pregnancy;
- elimination of even the deepest wrinkles;
- narrowing of pores;
- increasing the elasticity of the skin and restoring its texture;
- removal of scars and scars;
- getting rid of age spots and rosacea (spider veins and spider veins).
Laser Fraxel
Getting rid of stretch marks using this device is carried out by exposing the surface layers of the skin to low energy. Therefore, this device can perform laser removal of stretch marks even on the chest, where the skin is delicate and sensitive.
Getting rid of stretch marks using this device is absolutely safe and does not cause complications, since only the upper layers of the epidermis are affected. The rehabilitation period after the procedure is only one day.
Erbium laser
Laser removal of stretch marks after childbirth is carried out with an erbium laser. This procedure is delicate and safe, since the rays penetrate the epidermis by only 1–5 microns.
The process of getting rid of dead cells occurs so quickly that nearby areas of the skin do not heat up, which is why the erbium laser is called “cold”.
Qualified specialists will select the type of device that is needed in this particular case. After laser stretch mark removal by an experienced cosmetologist, clients are always satisfied with the result.
Regardless of the device chosen, laser stretch mark removal is carried out according to a specific scenario.
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Why clients choose us
- The Expert Cosmetology Clinic has valued its impeccable reputation since 2009!
- Our doctors have developed proprietary programs to effectively solve even complex problems.
- We attach great importance to your safety and compliance with sanitary standards.
- We carefully select our staff; the procedure is performed only by cosmetologists.
- We use only original drugs and equipment to ensure that the procedure is as safe and accurate as possible.
- We have our own parking, no need to waste time looking for a space on neighboring streets.
- Thousands of grateful clients confidently recommend us to their family and friends because they TRUST US!
It is worth noting that a properly selected individual course of treatment can restore damaged areas and restore firmness and elasticity to the skin. But in order to remove stretch marks after childbirth as quickly as possible, it is necessary to undergo such a course of procedures under the close guidance of an experienced cosmetologist who knows first-hand about the problem of postpartum stretch marks.
Getting rid of stretch marks after childbirth is difficult, but nothing is impossible for a qualified specialist. Entrust your beauty and attractiveness to experienced cosmetologists - and they will help you solve all the problems related to your appearance that concern you.
You can make an appointment and ask any questions you have about how to remove the appearance of stretch marks after childbirth by calling or filling out the feedback form on our website. The administrator will contact you within 15 minutes.
How does laser stretch mark removal work?
Laser removal of stretch marks is carried out using standard technology:
- An anesthetic cream is applied to the affected areas of the skin or the client is given general anesthesia.
- Stretch marks are affected by laser radiation.
If the patient for some reason refuses pain relief, experts suggest that he perform the procedure using the Palomar laser, which cools the skin and thereby reduces pain. In addition, a session with this device will last from 30 to 50 minutes, and when carrying out fractional thermolysis it will take about two hours. Typically, laser removal of stretch marks using the Palomar device leads to excellent results.
However, like any other medical intervention, laser stretch mark removal has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros and cons of laser stretch mark removal
This procedure has many advantages. Laser is an effective tool for removing a wide range of skin defects, including pigmentation, scars, spider veins, stars, etc.
Laser stretch mark removal has become very popular, because among its advantages :
- No pain due to anesthesia.
- Instant effect immediately after the procedure.
- Elimination of both newly formed and old stretch marks.
- Safety.
- Long-term results.
The main disadvantage of laser stretch mark removal is long-term rehabilitation after the procedure. The laser can burn up to 1 mm of the epidermis in just one session, depending on the age and depth of the stretch marks. And after this, the skin must restore the injured areas, covering itself with a new layer. Typically, the rehabilitation period is about a month.
This leads to the second disadvantage - the duration of the course. The procedure itself is quick, but the course of treatment consists of four to five sessions, so it may take you about six months. Considering skin problems during the rehabilitation period (itching, peeling, redness), this period causes discomfort for many. Clients are motivated only by increasingly noticeable results after each subsequent session of laser stretch mark removal.
The effectiveness of laser stretch mark removal is lower when affecting old stretch marks; it will not be possible to completely get rid of them. Thanks to the procedure, such stretch marks can be made less noticeable, smooth and uniform in color. But traces of such damage will still remain.
Discomfort and itching are another disadvantage of laser stretch mark removal. The procedure itself is painless, but the rehabilitation period is accompanied by unpleasant sensations in the treated area, similar to a sunburn.
Despite the fact that laser exposure is the most effective in the fight against stretch marks, it cannot always be used due to the presence of a number of contraindications.
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Contraindications to laser stretch mark removal
If a client has stretch marks and wants to get rid of them, he is prescribed laser stretch mark removal. The contraindications here are the same as for other procedures for which a laser is used:
- The period of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Diabetes mellitus type I or II.
- Diseases of the cardiovascular system and hypertension.
- Hormonal disorders.
- Oncological diseases.
- Epilepsy.
- Acute infectious diseases.
- Varicose veins in areas with stretch marks.
- Tendency to develop keloid scars.
- Inflammatory process in the treated area.
- Allergy.
- Performed a chemical peel procedure less than two weeks before laser stretch mark removal.
Rehabilitation after laser stretch mark removal
Will laser removal of stretch marks on the abdomen work? This can be found out immediately after the completion of the rehabilitation period, because damaged skin requires special care:
- After the procedure, it is prohibited to visit saunas, baths, swimming pools and sunbathe. Otherwise, you may provoke the development of complications.
- It is impossible to rip off the formed crusts.
- For three to four days after laser removal of stretch marks, it is necessary to lubricate the injured skin with moisturizers and anti-inflammatory agents.
- Avoid sudden movements that may cause further damage to the treated area.
- If pain occurs, take painkillers.
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Prevention of stretch marks after childbirth
Prevention of stretch marks after childbirth is as follows:
- Eliminate bad habits;
- Establish a diet, eat only high-quality, fortified, healthy foods;
- Do gymnastics for pregnant women, spend more time outdoors;
- Monitor weight gain;
- Massage is an excellent way to prevent the appearance of stretch marks, as it improves blood circulation and increases skin elasticity;
- It is possible to use various oils (for example, olive), which improve the properties of the skin, increase its elasticity and overall appearance.
How much does laser stretch mark removal cost?
How is the cost of the procedure calculated and how much does laser stretch mark removal cost? Its price is quite high, although it does not require any costs. This is explained by the high cost of the equipment and the duration of its operation. After all, it happens that in advanced situations, removing stretch marks, the device works for up to two hours without interruptions.
Also, the high price of the procedure is associated with the complexity of its implementation. The device settings are selected individually for each client in accordance with the severity of stretch marks and how long ago they appeared.
The specialist must carefully examine the patient’s skin and prescribe laser removal of stretch marks. The cost of this procedure is from three hundred rubles per square centimeter of skin. The penetration depth of the rays does not affect the price. If the client does a set of procedures at once, he receives a discount, thanks to which he can get rid of many defects at a lower cost. If you order laser removal of stretch marks one square centimeter at a time, it will cost approximately 500 rubles.
The cost of the procedure itself does not include the price of anesthesia. You should not skimp on painkillers, because laser removal of stretch marks can be very painful. Before you begin, check with your specialist about the cost of anesthesia.
Also, the price depends on the type of laser device. It was already said above that there are several types that differ from each other in intensity and depth of impact, and therefore their effectiveness and cost vary widely. Consider this moment.
It is also necessary to understand the duration of the treatment course. The cost of each subsequent procedure may decrease if the number of stretch marks is reduced. But don't expect a big price drop and be prepared for another large investment.
To achieve noticeable improvements in laser removal of stretch marks, you need to do about 3-6 procedures for stretch marks that formed less than a year ago, and 6-12 with a break of one or two months for old ones.
To get rid of stretch marks, other salon procedures are also used, which also give a certain effect, despite the fact that laser is considered the most effective method.
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Review of cosmetic products for those who are hesitant about laser stretch mark removal
If you find it difficult to decide on laser removal of stretch marks, try getting rid of them using the following means:
"Avent" - a cream popular throughout Europe
Its advantages:
- The company's reputation and a huge number of consumers satisfied with the results obtained.
- The tube is large enough to allow you to use the product for a long time.
- Pleasant and light consistency, thanks to which the cream is quickly absorbed into the skin.
- Hypoallergenic composition.
- Light and unobtrusive aroma.
- Permanently relieves the feeling of tightness and dryness of the skin.
- The product is absolutely safe, and therefore can be used during pregnancy and lactation.
disadvantages , but they still exist:
- Expensive.
- Insufficient amount of information presented in Russian on the packaging.
- Difficult to find in retail stores.
- It perfectly prevents the occurrence of stretch marks, but has low effectiveness in the fight against stretch marks that have already appeared.
In general, consumers leave positive reviews about this cream and recommend it for use.
"Sanosan"
The products of the German company have held a leading position in the market for a very long time.
Main advantages:
- High quality products and good demand for them.
- Hypoallergenic composition.
- A large tube that allows you to use the product for a long time and makes it a fairly inexpensive option.
- They give the skin smoothness and tenderness, tone it and eliminate the feeling of dryness.
- Approved for use during pregnancy and lactation.
- Stimulates collagen synthesis.
Flaws:
- The consistency is quite thick, causing inconvenience during application; for the same reason, the products take a long time to be absorbed.
- The composition contains flavorings that give the creams a pronounced aroma, which not all customers like.
- They effectively prevent the formation of new stretch marks, but they are not able to remove old ones.
- High price.
- Insufficient information about the product in the instructions.
But, after weighing all the pros and cons, consumers, as a rule, recommend this company’s creams for use, including by pregnant women and young mothers, instead of laser stretch mark removal.
"Mustela"
According to the manufacturer, the cream is approved and recommended for use by 90% of buyers.
Advantages of the product:
- The effective double action of the cream is to eliminate existing stretch marks and prevent the appearance of new ones.
- Moisturizing the skin and maintaining its water balance.
- Light and pleasant smell.
- Good consistency, thanks to which the product is consumed slowly and is easily applied to the skin.
- Fast absorption.
- Safety of use during pregnancy and lactation.
Minuses:
- High price.
- Inconvenient dispenser.
- Sometimes causes allergic reactions.
Most of the reviews about this cream indicate its effectiveness in the fight against stretch marks.
Bepanten
Bepanten should be classified as a medicinal rather than a cosmetic product. It can be purchased as a cream, emulsion or ointment.
Pros:
- Can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- The composition contains dexpanthenol, a substance that stimulates the regeneration of skin cells.
- Available in tubes of various volumes, which allows you to select and purchase the optimal amount of product.
- Hypoallergenic composition.
- The ability to choose a dosage form that affects the absorption rate of the product (the emulsion penetrates the skin instantly, the cream penetrates a little more slowly and can cause a feeling of greasyness).
- Moisturizes the skin and eliminates itching.
Minuses:
- Effectively prevents the occurrence of stretch marks, but does not eliminate existing ones.
- Insufficient packaging strength.
- Poor quality dispenser that breaks very quickly.
In general, most buyers are satisfied with this product and recommend using it from the very beginning of pregnancy, following the instructions, to prevent overstretching of the skin and keep it smooth and even.
"Vichy"
This cream from a French manufacturer is used by many girls instead of laser stretch mark removal procedures. It is especially popular among pregnant and lactating women.
Pros:
- Perfectly moisturizes the skin.
- It has a subtle and light aroma.
- Despite the oily consistency, it is quickly absorbed and does not leave marks on clothes.
- Hypoallergenic composition.
- Effectively prevents the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy and during sudden changes in body weight.
Minuses:
- It is absolutely ineffective in the fight against old stretch marks and does not even reduce their severity.
- Used uneconomically.
- Allergic reactions may occur.
Most of the consumer reviews are positive, which confirms the high quality and effectiveness of this cream.
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Home Alternatives to Cosmetic and Laser Stretch Mark Removal
- Self-massage.
To avoid the appearance of stretch marks and the need for laser removal of stretch marks, you should do self-massage regularly. It improves blood flow in problem areas, which means their saturation with nutrients and vitamins increases, which helps accelerate regeneration. During the massage, use creams and oils. The abdomen and buttocks area should be massaged in a circular motion clockwise, and the hips and waist should be massaged from bottom to top. In cosmetic stores you can purchase special brushes designed to eliminate stretch marks.
- Cold and hot shower.
Has a positive effect on skin elasticity. It can be done in combination with light self-massage. After a shower, thoroughly rub the problem areas with a towel and apply anti-cellulite and stretch mark cream to them.
- Special homemade scrub.
To prepare the scrub you will need a glass of granulated sugar, a glass of salt and half a glass of vegetable oil. All these components must be thoroughly mixed and massaged onto the skin of problem areas. After the procedure, use a moisturizer or lotion.
- Coffee scrub.
To prepare this scrub, take 100 grams of ground coffee, pour boiling water over it and leave for 15 minutes. The result should be a thick coffee sediment, to which you should add a tablespoon of olive, coconut, flaxseed or rosehip oil. You can also use a few drops of essential oil: eucalyptus, grapefruit or orange.
- Mumiyo.
You can simply rub tablets dissolved in water into the skin. Or you can take one gram of mumiyo, a tablespoon of boiled water and 80 grams of baby cream, mix everything thoroughly. The resulting composition should be applied to problem areas every day. It must be stored in the refrigerator.
- Orange oil.
Orange essential oil, like other citrus oils, is recommended for self-massage. It is best to use it after taking a shower. Massage should be carried out with a canvas mitten or a special brush up to three times a week for two to three months.
- Rosemary oils.
Rosemary essential oil is also used to remove and prevent stretch marks. It, in the amount of 5-8 drops, is mixed with a teaspoon of almond oil and the resulting mass is rubbed into problem areas daily.
- Almond oil.
In order not to let the situation get worse and not resort to laser removal of stretch marks, use almond oil. It owes its effectiveness to the vitamin E it contains. The oil is easily and quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving any traces.
- Hazelnut oil.
It, like the previous one, is rich in vitamin E. You can use it as a separate product and rub it into the skin or apply it together with a scrub.
- Wheat germ oil.
It has a thick consistency and is also rich in vitamin E. The absorption time of this oil is longer than almond oil. Recommended for use during massage.
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How to prevent the appearance of stretch marks on the skin?
During pregnancy, it is important to follow the principles of prevention that will protect the skin from stretch marks. First, you need to add foods rich in vitamin E and C to the pregnant woman’s diet. Legumes are rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as green vegetables. You should give up sugar, it reduces the formation of collagen in the skin.
It is also necessary to monitor your water balance. If the pregnant woman is not bothered by body edema and there are no special recommendations from the supervising doctor, it is recommended to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. It is also necessary to monitor the nutrition of the skin, moisturize it with special creams and lotions, and use a hard-bristled brush when washing.
Moderate physical activity increases muscle tone. For this purpose there are special group classes in the gym. Women during pregnancy usually practice yoga. If physical exercise is contraindicated for health reasons, you should spend more time walking at a brisk pace.
What other salon procedures will help get rid of stretch marks?
In addition to laser removal of stretch marks, there are many other effective methods in cosmetology to combat stretch marks. These high-tech methods include:
- Mesotherapy.
Mesotherapy is an effective skin care procedure for the face and body, which is the introduction through injection of microdoses of cocktails consisting of homeopathic remedies and vitamins. The composition is administered intradermally or subcutaneously to a depth of 2 to 4 mm.
With the help of mesotherapy, it is easy to deliver the medicinal substance to the right place without exposing the entire body. For example, when correcting a figure, obesity, getting rid of the “orange peel”, the drugs are administered into the subcutaneous fatty tissue, due to which fat deposits are removed in those areas of the body where it is difficult and almost impossible to burn them either with the help of training or with the help of proper nutrition.
- Ozone therapy.
Ozone therapy, like laser stretch mark removal, is used to treat stretch marks. It is also used to prevent various diseases, cleanse the skin, strengthen the immune system and normalize metabolic processes.
- Chemical peeling – polishing the skin using trichloroacetic and fruit acids.
Read the material on the topic: Chemical peeling of the face: your skin will breathe a new breath!
- Hot and cold wraps are procedures aimed at removing stretch marks using chocolate, seaweed, honey, essential oils and various medicinal plants.
- Microcurrent therapy is a procedure that stimulates the synthesis of connective tissue fibers.
Electrochemical processes continuously occur inside our body, ensuring its normal functioning and vital activity. Using hardware microcurrents, biological impulses are simulated, thereby catalyzing natural electrochemical reactions. Therefore, this procedure is considered one of the safest, but no less effective than laser stretch mark removal.
Hardware microcurrents have an anti-inflammatory and lymphatic drainage effect, stimulate regeneration, tone weakened muscles, normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands and metabolism in cells, and strengthen the immune system. In addition to all of the above, microcurrent therapy improves the penetration of substances into the deep layers of the epidermis.
- Microdermabrasion (micro-resurfacing).
Microdermabrasion is the resurfacing of the skin using microcrystals. This procedure is considered one of the most gentle methods of mechanical peeling. It is an absolutely safe, delicate, but at the same time quite effective method of combating age-related changes, stretch marks and other skin defects. The result is not inferior to laser stretch mark removal. During the procedure, the skin is not injured, inflammatory reactions do not occur, which means the risk of infection is reduced to zero.
Microdermabrasion has a stimulating effect on the superficial epidermal layers, due to which blood circulation improves in the treated areas and the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the cells increases. As a result, they begin to actively share and update. This procedure also helps exfoliate the stratum corneum of the skin, remove stretch marks, tighten pores and reduce wrinkles.
As a result of microdermabrasion, the skin becomes incredibly smooth and takes on a fresh and healthy appearance. This rejuvenating procedure tones the skin and restores its structure by stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastic fibers.
Microdermabrasion also helps get rid of age spots, scars and scars resulting from surgical interventions and injuries, removes post-acne and helps remove stretch marks.
- Radiofrequency lifting is a procedure that stimulates the production of elastin and collagen by applying electric current to the skin.
Skin treatment with radiofrequency energy is one of the newest and most popular achievements of modern cosmetology. The result after the procedure can be compared with the effect of plastic surgery, and in some cases it even surpasses it. This technology has found the same wide application in the treatment of “orange peel” and stretch marks as laser removal of stretch marks.
- Plastic surgery , namely abdominoplasty, is one of the newest techniques used to treat many cosmetic defects if laser removal of stretch marks and other methods listed above are ineffective. It is used to remove stretch marks in the abdominal area by excision of damaged tissue.
Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the rehabilitation period is complex and lengthy. There are situations when abdominoplasty is performed in conjunction with laser resurfacing. After the operation, many complications may arise, a suppurative process may develop, and scars may form. Therefore, the decision to perform an operation must be well thought out and balanced. Is it worth jeopardizing your own health, since stretch marks do not affect your quality of life?
Before performing laser removal of stretch marks or any other of these complexes, you should definitely consult with an experienced doctor who will draw up an individual treatment program, taking into account your characteristics and the presence of contraindications. You cannot prescribe such procedures for yourself, but you can use cosmetics without fear for your health.
Nowadays, you no longer have to spend a lot of time on complex and unpleasant procedures at home. It is much easier to seek help from real professionals - the Veronika Herba beauty and health center, equipped with effective and modern equipment.
Why clients choose Veronika Herba Beauty and Health Center:
- This is a beauty center where you can take care of yourself at a reasonable cost, while your face and/or body will be treated not by an ordinary cosmetologist, but by one of the best dermatologists in Moscow. This is a completely different, higher level of service!
- You can receive qualified help at any time convenient for you. The beauty center is open from 9:00 to 21:00, seven days a week. The main thing is to agree with your doctor in advance on the date and time of your appointment.
Sign up for a consultation with a specialist by phone +7 (495) 085-15-13
, and you will see for yourself!