Is it possible to remove stretch marks with plastic surgery?

Stretch marks are one of the most common cosmetic defects, having the appearance of wavy colorless or pink stripes of different lengths and widths that appear when the reticular layer of the dermis is destroyed as a result of a decrease in the production of fibrillar proteins by fibroblasts. In other words, stretch marks (striae) are small wavy scars of an atrophic type that occur when the skin is overstretched against the background of a decrease in its elasticity.

If there are too many stretch marks on the body, or they are very brightly colored, a person may experience severe psychological discomfort, so the problem of treating stretch marks is becoming increasingly urgent, especially in women over 30 years old. Complete removal of such a defect is only possible through surgery; all other methods can only reduce the intensity of their color and make the scars less noticeable. The most effective non-invasive treatment for stretch marks is laser removal.

Laser stretch mark removal

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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FAQ

Is it possible to completely remove stretch marks with a laser?

Currently, among minimally invasive methods, only laser can remove stretch marks completely, without any traces.

How many treatments are required to completely remove stretch marks?

The number of procedures depends on the characteristics of the skin of a particular patient or patient, the size and “age” of stretch marks. A cosmetologist will be able to give an approximate amount after a personal examination. On average, 2-4 sessions are enough.

It hurts?

No, it doesn’t hurt at all, since the procedure is performed using topical anesthesia. In particularly advanced cases, local injection anesthesia is possible.

What is the interval between procedures?

The interval is 1-1.5 months. Yes, you will have to be a little patient, but the result is worth it.

Will stretch marks appear again?

Lifestyle plays a big role here. If you exclude skin stretching due to weight gain and pregnancy, and take care of your skin with cosmetics, clear, smooth skin will remain for many years

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:

1. Laser exposure.

Laser beams, fractionally affecting the surface of the epidermis, penetrate one to two millimeters into it.

1. Natural tissue restoration.

The intense impact of the laser stimulates natural repair processes in tissues and the formation of new collagen and elastic fibers.

1. Smoothing the skin with its own collagen.

Newly synthesized collagen gradually displaces the connective tissue that forms striae.

1. Elimination of stretch marks.

In places where stretch marks and scars are located, smooth, smooth and beautiful skin is formed.

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Alternative

If for some reason it is not possible to get rid of stretch marks using laser techniques, then you can use alternative options.

Ozone therapy

This method involves exposing problem areas to an oxygen-ozone mixture by injection into the locations of stretch marks. With this procedure, stretch marks cannot be completely eliminated, but after several sessions they will be less noticeable.

Ultrasound

It is based on the influence of ultrasonic waves on connective tissue in areas where stretch marks form. Micromassage occurs, thereby improving lymphatic drainage and activating the synthesis of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. In addition, blood circulation is restored and metabolic processes are launched at the cellular level. As a result, almost complete smoothing of stretch marks is observed.

Mesotherapy

It involves the subcutaneous administration of meso-cocktails based on vitamins, microelements and other active ingredients. This procedure shows the best results for newly formed stretch marks.

If you do not take into account correction by surgical methods, then laser removal of stretch marks is considered one of the most effective procedures. 4-5 sessions are enough to almost completely get rid of even old stretch marks. The technique is safe, but requires prior consultation with a specialist, as it has a number of serious contraindications.

Laser stretch mark removal methods

Laser stretch mark and scar removal involves two different skin resurfacing methods:

1. 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.

1. 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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Methods of laser therapy for stretch marks

Stretch marks on the face and body can be removed using laser in two ways: deep laser resurfacing and fractional laser thermolysis. The second option is more gentle, since it does not injure surrounding tissues, and during the procedure itself the patient experiences less pain, but the effect of fractional resurfacing is less pronounced compared to deep processing.

Deep grinding

Deep (classical) skin resurfacing is a highly effective method of combating stretch marks, based on deep heating of dermal cells. For this type of laser therapy, a CO2 (CO2) carbon dioxide laser is used, which is capable of emitting a light pulse in the infrared range with a penetration depth of up to 20 microns. This allows for a combined clinical effect: the laser not only “seals” the outer layer of the skin, but also causes a complete renewal of the deep layers due to traumatization of all epidermal cells at a given depth.

Carbon dioxide laser provides treatment of deep layers of skin

The deep laser resurfacing procedure is quite painful and, if it is necessary to treat large areas (for example, the abdomen), it may require the use of general anesthesia. In other cases, local anesthesia is used with gels, which include local anesthetics - lidocaine and prilocaine. After treatment, the skin looks burned, swelling and bruising may appear. The rehabilitation period after such exposure ranges from 7-10 days to 2-3 weeks. Since the grinding process traumatizes the deep layers of the dermis, white or yellow crusts may appear on the surface of the treated area after the procedure.

Emla cream - local anesthetic

Important! Despite the painfulness of the procedure, the complexity and duration of the recovery period, deep skin resurfacing is indicated for patients with old scars, more than 6 months have passed since their appearance. More gentle methods of laser therapy will be ineffective for correcting such stretch marks.

Fractional photothermolysis

The method of fractional resurfacing of scars and stretch marks is comfortable for the patient, since this method uses a fragmented (point) effect on the problem area, as a result of which the surrounding tissues are not damaged and retain their structure. The laser beam in fractional lasers is scattered into many micro-streams, creating microthermal treatment zones, the number of which can range from several tens to several thousand (depending on the area being treated).

Fractional resurfacing is a more gentle procedure

Fractional resurfacing of stretch marks can be performed in three ways: ablative, non-ablative and combined, combining the principles of the two previous methods.

Methods for fractional resurfacing of stretch marks

The fractional laser resurfacing procedure is not considered painful, although some patients complain of severe discomfort during the laser operation. Like classic resurfacing, fractional thermolysis requires preliminary anesthesia with local anesthetics. Visible results after using this method of removing stretch marks can be noticed after the first procedure, although the full course usually consists of 4-8 procedures.

Changes in skin structure after laser therapy

The recovery period after using a fractional laser is shorter than after deep resurfacing, but in patients with increased sensitivity it can be more severe, so they need to refrain from going outside, to public places and to work for several days.

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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Where do scars come from?

Scars are dense formations that appear after tissue regeneration in the area of ​​damage.
Scars, consisting of collagen fibers, form at the site of the injured area of ​​​​the skin. There are no sweat glands or hair on their surface. They are also distinguished by the presence of a small number of nerve endings and blood vessels. At the site of the scar, the skin has a smooth texture without a pattern. Our specialists will select the optimal method for you and help you quickly treat and remove scars left after the operation.

How does laser stretch mark removal work?

Laser removal of stretch marks is carried out using standard technology:

1. An anesthetic cream is applied to the affected areas of the skin or the client is given general anesthesia.
2. 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.

Progress

In modern clinics, the fractional and classical method of laser stretch mark removal is becoming increasingly popular.

In general, the procedure involves performing a number of general sequential actions.

First, the skin in areas requiring correction is cleaned of impurities and treated with an antiseptic solution. After this, a cream with an anesthetic effect is applied to the skin. Next, the specialist uses the device to set the exposure parameters and select the most suitable laser attachment.

The classical method uses an erbium laser, where a special tip is used to target problem areas with beam beams. In this case, all movements are performed along the direction of the stretch line.

When the beam penetrates to a certain depth, tissue fragments are evaporated, as a result of which fibroblasts are activated and trigger tissue renewal processes. In this way, self-healing occurs at the cellular level.

The technology for performing fractional thermolysis has principles similar to the method described above. However, in this case the laser beam acts more accurately. Nearby tissues are not affected. Thanks to such ultra-precision, even the smallest stretch marks can be removed.

At the final stage, the treated areas are wiped with an antiseptic again, after which the wound-healing agent Panthenol is applied to them.

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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Consequences and complications

After removing stretch marks using the classical method, many patients note the appearance of local redness, swelling and pain, which persists for a long period. The cause of swelling can be mechanical damage to the skin. As a rule, such symptoms disappear on their own after 5-7 days.

After several sessions, complications may arise such as microburn, increased size of stretch marks, or a more saturated color of stretch marks. The reason for this is often the use of outdated equipment during the procedure, the specialist’s violation of the rules for performing the manipulation, and the patient’s failure to comply with recommendations at the stage of preparation and recovery.

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.

Contraindications

Laser removal is an effective method of combating stretch marks, but it is not suitable for everyone. Contraindications for the procedure are:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• early postpartum period (cosmetologists recommend performing laser procedures no earlier than six months after childbirth, provided that the woman is not breastfeeding);
• diabetes mellitus of any type in the stage of decompensation, when sugar levels cannot be controlled even with adequate drug therapy;
• malignant neoplasms of any location;
• purulent-inflammatory and infectious skin diseases;
• skin diseases of inflammatory etiology in the acute stage;
• high temperature and state of intoxication;
• mental disorders.

Laser therapy is contraindicated for skin diseases

It is not recommended to perform laser resurfacing of stretch marks for women during menstrual flow (due to the peculiarities of hormonal levels during this period).

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:

1. After the procedure, it is prohibited to visit saunas, baths, swimming pools and sunbathe. Otherwise, you may provoke the development of complications.
2. It is impossible to rip off the formed crusts.
3. 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.
4. Avoid sudden movements that may cause further damage to the treated area.
5. If pain occurs, take painkillers.

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Repeated procedures

Each repeat session costs the same as the first. The duration of subsequent sessions also does not change. There should be 4 to 6 weeks between laser treatment sessions for stretch marks.

It is impossible to completely remove stretch marks with a laser, but you can achieve a pronounced cosmetic effect: the relief and tone of the skin are evened out.

You will be invited to a repeat session in 30–45 days. If the stretch marks are fresh, they respond better to treatment and a second session may not be necessary.

Once treatment and recovery are complete, the results will last for years. In rare cases, you will have to remember about stretch marks again.

Video: laser stretch mark removal procedure, indications, doctor’s recommendations

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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Cost of laser resurfacing of stretch marks

How much laser resurfacing of stretch marks costs depends on whether they are specifically removed or whether the entire body area is treated. For selective removal, the price is 700 rubles. for 1 cm (plus the cost of anesthesia). Below we provide information on treating body zones.

The price in Moscow for laser resurfacing of stretch marks depends on the equipment and qualifications of the specialist. Please note that the procedure can only be performed by a specialist with a higher medical education. This will protect you from burns and other unpleasant consequences and will allow you to get the skin you dreamed of.

If you want to know the cost of the procedure in your case, you can send us your photos (not selfies) on WhatsApp: +7 (985) 644-92-32

or DM on Instagram. Information about the length of the stretch marks will also be useful.

After removing stretch marks, you may want to restore overall firmness to your skin. For these purposes, we offer a wide range of hardware, injection and laser techniques. The doctor will advise you on issues related to improving skin tone.

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.

Read the material on the topic: What is PRP therapy

What are the advantages of the erbium laser ER:YAG 2940 nm Harmony XL (Israel)?

The erbium laser is recognized throughout the world as the safest and most effective for combating stretch marks. In our center we use the latest fractional erbium laser Harmony XL (Israel).

The main advantages of the fractional erbium laser are:

1. The gentle effect of the erbium laser on the skin allows procedures to be performed without anesthesia, even on large surfaces.
2. The rehabilitation period is half as long compared to a CO2 laser
3. No dividing (demarcation) lines between the untreated and treated surfaces of the skin
4. This is the only laser that makes it possible to perform procedures on dry, thin skin.

Home Alternatives to Cosmetic and Laser Stretch Mark Removal

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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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Pros and cons of laser stretch mark removal: indications and contraindications, preparation and nuances

Contrary to misconceptions, it is quite possible to combat this cosmetic problem. For example, how to remove stretch marks on the stomach is already described in detail in the corresponding article, which can be read separately. Today, laser stretch mark removal is the most popular and effective procedure. It is relevant for both women and men, and with minimal contraindications, it gives very convincing results from the first visit to the salon or clinic. But there are disadvantages that, like the advantages, you need to know in advance.

Striae on the skin can form for various reasons. The most common of these is sudden weight gain. Skin that does not have enough collagen and elastin simply cannot withstand tension, its fibers diverge, and unsightly, initially reddish-brown stripes form between them, which lighten over time.

Advantages

First of all, you need to evaluate all the chances that such a complex, but almost completely painless procedure promises. Although many say that quite unpleasant sensations are still present.

• The results of the equipment for laser correction of stretch marks are visible on the first day after use. That is, you can immediately see whether the method works or not.
• Modern equipment is usually equipped with special devices for contact cooling of the skin surface. Therefore, patients do not feel any pain, only mild discomfort.
• This corrective therapy can be performed on any part of the body where it is needed.
• Using a device for removing stretch marks, you can also remove spider veins, pigment spots and even birthmarks.
• This procedure is not considered surgical, so it can be performed not only in a hospital, but also in a regular salon. True, this does not mean that you do not need to select a professional cosmetologist to carry it out.
• The appearance of the skin and its texture noticeably improves after the procedure, it becomes much smoother and silky.
• In some, albeit quite rare cases, stretch marks almost completely disappear and become completely invisible. But in most cases the result reaches 50 percent or more.
• As a result, the processes of natural self-rejuvenation and healing of the skin are launched.

Apart from surgery, no method guarantees such good results as this procedure. At the same time, more than 78% of respondents indicate that stretch marks either disappeared almost completely or became almost invisible.

Indications

• Stretch marks.
• Post-acne.
• Old scars and scars.
• Heterogeneous relief of the skin surface.
• Dark spots.
• Wrinkles and other age-related changes.
• Stagnant spots after acne treatment.
• Tightening and firming the skin.

Disadvantages and contraindications

Unfortunately, nothing is completely perfect. Therefore, you should pay attention to all the alarm bells before you decide on such a procedure. For example, after such a correction, you cannot go to the beach, much less to the solarium, for a whole month, or even better, two. And the grinding itself is not carried out after chemical or mechanical peeling. There are even a number of contraindications in which the method will have to be avoided.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding period.
• Oncological problems in the body of any nature. The procedure may stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
• Epilepsy and neuropsychiatric disorders.
• Herpes of any type.
• Psoriasis, seborrhea, eczema, atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases.
• Diabetes mellitus or any disorder of thyroid secretion.
• A variety of infectious and chronic diseases that are in the acute stage.
• Early adolescence (less than 18 years old).
• Varicose veins, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis.
• Cardiovascular diseases.

Among other things, laser correction will require additional care after the procedure. The surface of the skin will have to be lubricated several times a day with special nourishing and moisturizing agents. It is desirable that they at the same time increase elasticity, stimulate metabolism and the production of natural collagen and elastin.

How to prepare and how many procedures are needed

This has already been said hundreds of thousands of times, but we will still repeat it: before going for any procedures, you must first visit your doctor. After all, you may not even be aware of contraindications or any problems in the body. Therefore, it is better to initially undergo an examination, take tests and tests, so that later you do not have to treat unexpected illnesses caused by the procedure.

For laser treatment of stretch marks to be effective and without consequences, you need to properly prepare yourself for the procedure. There are not many requirements, but they will have to be fulfilled strictly in order to avoid unpleasant or even more disastrous consequences.

• For approximately ten to fourteen days, it is forbidden to go to the solarium or sunbathe on the beach. Exposure of the skin to ultraviolet light can negatively affect the effectiveness of the laser correction procedure.
• You should not go to a cosmetologist after chemical peeling. Here, too, you will have to wait two weeks first.
• It is believed that during the same period of ten to fourteen days, you should not take antibiotics, sulfonamides, or fluoroquinolones.
• Three days before correction, it is not recommended to wipe the skin in the affected area with alcohol-containing substances.

Going to the pool, much less visiting a Russian or Finnish bathhouse, where the ambient temperature is significantly increased, is completely prohibited.

To achieve maximum results, it is better to carry out laser correction of stretch marks without delay. After just four months, the effectiveness of the procedures drops to 40%. Therefore, it is recommended to react quickly, taking steps to urgently resolve the problem.

As has been said and advertised many times, results will be visible after the first session. But for the full effect you will need more than one visit to the beauty salon. Each course is selected individually, depending on the skin type, as well as the degree of neglect of the problem. Most often, doctors and experienced cosmetologists prescribe from six to ten procedures. In this case, you will have to take breaks of up to 30-45 days, so as not to do more harm than good.

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!

Where do stretch marks come from?

Low elasticity of the skin and its inability to quickly regenerate are related to the formation of stretch marks. And the main role is played by a significant reduction in the production of collagen and elastin by fibroblasts while maintaining the ability to synthesize collagenase and elastase (which break down collagen and elastin molecules, respectively).

Atrophic scars appear as a result of microtraumas in the reticular layer of the dermis and subcutaneous fat. In this case, the epidermis remains intact. As a result, when collagen and elastin fibers and blood vessels rupture, a gap is formed, overgrown with connective tissue in the form of strips of different lengths and colors.

Preparation before the procedure

During the procedure, the top layer of skin is injured. Medium - warming up. Therefore, before resorting to this event, you should undergo an examination:

1. Initially, you need to go for a consultation with a therapist. He will eliminate all contraindications and confirm that grinding will not harm your health.
2. A dermatologist will evaluate the condition of your skin. This will allow you to choose the most effective treatment for the problem.
3. Stop sunbathing 3 weeks before your planned event. You should not visit the solarium during this period. This will protect you from the formation of age spots on your body.

Remember that a qualified cosmetologist will definitely refer you to a therapist and dermatologist for additional examination before the laser procedure.

Contraindications to laser stretch mark removal

The main contraindications are:

1. Pregnancy, lactation period.
2. Skin diseases. The event is prohibited for people suffering from viral, fungal, chronic illnesses (eczema, psoriasis, lichen). In addition, the surface at the treatment site should not be injured.
3. Kidney failure.
4. Infectious diseases. You risk exacerbating developing illnesses.
5. Individual intolerance.

Laser removal of postpartum stretch marks is not recommended if the stretch marks are red. These are fresh defects that can be combated with special ointments and creams.

Possible consequences of the procedure

So, if you decide to remove unsightly stretch marks with a laser, pay special attention to the choice of clinic or salon. Read reviews about the specialist who will perform the procedure for you.

Improper implementation of the procedure usually leads to dire consequences:

• Severe tissue swelling may occur at the treatment site. This condition is the result of severe mechanical damage to the skin.
• Burn marks and scars may appear on the epidermis.
• Often there is an increase in scarring. This phenomenon indicates that the direction and depth of the beam have been incorrectly selected.

One of the side effects of laser resurfacing is skin redness.
The above-mentioned complications are extremely rare. After all, every self-respecting cosmetology salon approaches the selection of personnel very carefully. Therefore, the risk of falling into the hands of a non-professional is minimal.