Stretch Marks Treatment
What are stretch marks and why do they occur?
Stretch marks are a significant aesthetic concern mainly among the female population, less so among men. Pink, blueish, white, thin, or thick lines on the body result from damage to the connective tissue due to inadequate adaptation during skin stretching. Genetics play a significant role in the formation of stretch marks as it determines the structure, arrangement, strength, and flexibility of connective tissue.
Certain life phases contribute to the appearance of stretch marks. During puberty, rapid growth causes the skin to stretch, leading to marks commonly on the thighs, hips, buttocks, and other areas. During pregnancy, they form on the abdomen and chest. Rapid weight gain can cause them to appear anywhere on the body.
In these periods, the stability and density of connective tissue play a vital role in adjusting to the new circumstances. Not only genetics but certain diseases, hormonal imbalances, and corticosteroid therapy can weaken connective tissue, paving the way for stretch marks.
Appearance of Stretch Marks
Initially, stretch marks are pink due to many dilated blood vessels and blood congestion. Later, their color turns blueish and gradually fades to white, completely losing pigment. It usually takes 6-12 months for white stretch marks to form, which are seen as scars with pigment loss, presenting a significant aesthetic problem that cannot be entirely removed.
Can we influence them ourselves?
Yes! It’s crucial to act as early as possible.
In this case, the saying “prevention is better than cure” truly applies. One can maintain a normal weight and prevent rapid weight gain. Daily application of moisturizing and nourishing creams and rich oils can significantly reduce stretch mark occurrence. Our recommendation is the Juliette Armand Stretch Firming Cream, which was recognized as the best cream in Europe for preventing stretch marks. It’s safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
Treatments provide excellent results when stretch marks are addressed early. Once white stretch marks form, we can significantly improve skin appearance and reduce their visibility, but they cannot be completely removed.
Treatment
Several treatments are available. We will highlight three treatments that yield the best results.
Carboxytherapy: This treatment involves CO2 gas application under the skin, stimulating intense circulation and oxygen flow while releasing growth factors. This process produces a significant amount of collagen, visibly reducing the appearance of stretch marks on the skin surface and tightening the skin. Mild discomfort is felt during the treatment. At least five treatments are required, with a 15-day gap between sessions.
Plasmage: Plasma application on the skin’s surface causes minor damage, retracting the skin, resulting in a visible reduction of stretch marks. Tingling is felt during the procedure. 2-3 treatments are necessary, with a month’s gap between sessions. No preparation is needed for both methods. Before Plasmage, an anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area.
CO2 Fractional Laser: This ablative laser renews the skin by remodeling collagen. The synthesis of new collagen and the improvement of skin appearance continues for up to 6 months after treatment. Before the treatment, anesthetic cream is applied. During the procedure, the skin is cooled with cold air at -25 degrees, making the treatment more comfortable and reducing skin redness. Depending on the appearance of the stretch marks and the skin’s condition, the number of treatments is determined. Sometimes, just one session can yield excellent results. The treatment can be repeated after 30-45 days.
Candidates
Those with pink, blueish, brown, and white stretch marks can benefit.
Individuals with skin diseases in the treatment area, those with metastatic tumors, epilepsy, fever, severe heart diseases, implanted pacemakers, and pregnant women are contraindicated for the treatment.
Results
After carboxytherapy, the first results are visible within a few days, and the final outcome is achieved after a series of treatments.
For Plasmage, the first results are seen after 7 days when small scabs fall off, and the final result is visible after a month when the skin fully regenerates.
With the CO2 fractional laser, initial results are seen after the skin exfoliates (usually lasting 7-10 days) in the form of enhanced tone and smoother skin. After this, results improve over several months, with final collagen remodeling and a visible improvement in skin texture and the appearance of stretch marks.
Recovery
After carboxytherapy, the treated area becomes slightly red and swollen for up to 24 hours. It’s necessary to avoid sun exposure, workouts, and visiting the sauna for the first week.
After treatment with Plasmage, small scabs form at the application sites. It’s essential to apply Maxitrol ointment to these for the first 3-4 days. The scabs fall off after 5-7 days. During this time, the area should not be moistened, treated with other creams, or exposed to sunlight. Once the scabs fall off, a high SPF sunscreen should be applied if the area is exposed to sunlight because the skin renewal process lasts several weeks.
After the CO2 fractional laser treatment, there is swelling and redness. The swelling lasts 2-3 days, and during this period, the redness becomes more intense, with the formation of small scabs on the skin’s surface, followed by skin peeling, which usually concludes on the 6th to 10th day after the treatment. During this time, the skin should be hydrated, and physiological saline compresses can be applied to the treated area. Sun exposure should be avoided until the skin recovers, and applying a high SPF sunscreen is mandatory if the area is exposed to sunlight.