What are stretch marks ?

In the world, 9 out of 10 women, or around 23 million – are affected by stretch marks. Stretch marks, also known as singular stria or striae, are scars caused by tearing of the deep layer of skin – dermis. Stretch marks come with various visual distortions such as rough texture, hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation. Stretch marks are usually the result of stretching of the skin caused by rapid growth, weight gain, steroids, hormone replacement therapy, some creams, pregnancy, and other factors promoting irregular rapid expansion of skin. Some stretch marks are based on hereditary skin composition factors that affect its ability to repair. One group of people may go through pregnancy just fine while other groups develop major stretch marks areas.

Fresh stretch marks have pink to red color variations, and old settled stretch marks fade to light white color. Overtime, old stretch marks seem to blend in with surrounding skin to a certain degree, however, their rough and irregular texture always gives them away.

Can one get rid of stretch marks ?

Yes and No. There is no one definite answer for all cases. Success depends on age of stretchmarks, severity, skin composition, diet, and choice of treatment. How to get rid of Red stretch marks ?

Generally, as soon as fresh red or pink stretch marks develop one should treat them immediately. Red stretch marks can be cured by 90% if treated right away. Doctors usually prescribe Retin-A (Tretinoin) in case of new and fresh stretch marks. Retin-A is the acid version of Vitamin A and helps to increase collagen formation in dermis. Since red stretch marks are fresh, creams better penetrate the skin, and are great solution for their removal.

How to get rid of White stretch marks ?

White stretch marks are old stretch marks usually year old or longer. They are thinner than red stretch marks. They are characterized by the lack of coloration and the shriveling of furrows have been caused by a process called collagen remodeling. White stretch marks are not only texturally different but are hypopigmented (white color or colorless). The inflammation of the initial pink stage and the remodeling stage later on have caused the dissolution of pigment.

Although hard to remove, it is possible to significantly diminish their appearance that in most cases may pass as “100% removed”. The older and deeper stretch marks are harder to get rid of but, even in those cases, it is possible to repair and heal them up to 75%. Face it, stretch marks are scars and will require proper methods and dedication to work with for satisfactory results.

Home Remedies

Sugar and Salt

Take 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of salt, and 1/2 cup of coconut oil. Mix all ingredients really well and massage this mixture into affected stretch marks areas while in shower. Then wash everything off and apply any topical cream with vitamin E to nourish the skin. After a month you will see first good results, the stretch marks will begin take color resembling that of surrounding skin, and their size will slowly lessen. Keep on massaging problematic areas and after several months stretch marks appearance will be highly diminished or completely vanished.

Taraxcum and Aloe

Take 100 grams of Taraxcum fresh leafs, 75 grams of olive oil, several leafs of aloe or 1 teaspoon of aloe juice, and some oat flour (to make it creamy). Put Taraxcum leafs, olive oil, and cut aloe leafs into blender, and mix it until the mixture become homogeneous. Slowly add oak flour until the mixture becomes creamy. Spread and massage the mixture into affected areas and wait 5-10 mins and then wash it off. Do it twice daily in the morning and before bed. Store mixture in refrigerator. Make new mixture every week. It will take a month to see results but don’t give up, all procedures take time to start working. According to people who tried this method, it works really well so keep on doing it.

Aloe and Olive Oil

Take 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/2 cup of aloe juice, 5 drops of Vitamin A, and 10 drops of Vitamin E. Make a mixture and keep in refrigerator. Use this mixture preferably after scrub massage of stretch marks areas. This method is very effective in getting rid of white stretch marks if done on daily basis for 3 to 6 months.

Grape Juice

One of the cheapest and fastest methods to get rid of stretch marks. Grape juice especially effective for red and fresh stretch marks. Grape juice needs to be mixed into creamy mixture, oat flour does the job. Apply mixture onto problematic areas and leave for 20-30 minutes. Within a months most of stretch marks will be completely gone.

Comfrey

Comfrey contains allantoin, a cell proliferant that speeds up the natural replacement of body cells. Comfrey significantly improves skin’s appearance and its regenerative cell processes. Squeeze the juice out of fresh comfrey root and apply them on stretch marks. You can also boil 1 tea spoon of dry comfrey grass to 1/2 cup of hot water. Let it stay until it cools, and then use cheesecloth or similar to soak in solution and wrap around stretch marks areas.

Dry Beer Yeast

Take 15 grams of dry beer yeast, 4 teaspoons of cream (dairy product), 4 teaspoons of liquid honey. Mix dry beer yeast in cream and wait until fermentation causes the mixture to rise up little bit. Then mix in the honey and wait for 20 minutes. Apply mixture on stretch marks areas and wait for 30 minutes to wash off.

Clay

Clay can be purchased online or in specialty cosmetic stores. Mix blue, gray, and green clay in equal proportions. Add liquid honey and mix until it becomes homogeneous plastic mixture. Apply mixture onto stretch mark skin areas, and use bandages to wrap around to make sure clay mixture stays in place.

Coffee scrub

Visually estimate how much grounded coffee will you need to put on problematic areas. Add 1 or 2 table spoons of olive oil. You may add some aromatic oil for pleasant smell. Use as scrub mixture in shower, massage onto problem areas and wash off. To get rid of stretch marks repeat twice daily.

Creams and Lotions

When considering to use cream for stretch marks removal make sure you get the right cream or lotion for your type of stretch marks – Red or White. Red stretch marks generally respond perfectly to almost all stretch marks creams because they’re fresh, and skin hasn’t been seriously damaged yet. White stretch marks respond less efficiently to creams and lotions, and require creams with smaller molecules and higher intensity of action in order to resurrect cell formation within the damaged dermis. White stretch marks are similar to cement, damage done by red stretch marks becomes permanent if not treated with strong effective solution.

Based on customer reviews and overall satisfaction, the following creams and lotions are the best on market to help get rid of stretch marks. Please keep in mind that skin renewal takes 40 days, and you did not get stretch marks overnight, so it will take several months to see non-placebo results. Dramatic results usually occur within 6 months range. Do not panic and keep on using stretch marks treatments, there is no quick fix for scar removal but surgery.

CAUTION: It is recommended to use stretch mark creams in combination with massage and other treatments such as micro-needling, using derma rollers, etc. This will greatly improve effectiveness of creams. The majority of negative cream reviews, like “applied for 2 months and no results”, comes from improper or poor techniques used by customers. The #1 reason why most of stretch mark creams fail is because it is difficult for cream molecule to penetrate epidermis and reach deeper dermis. By using scrubbing massage or micro-needling or derma rollers, you will create tiny but big enough for cream molecules holes for dermis penetration.

Bio Oil

Bio oil – best treatment for fresh, pink, and red stretch marks, plus it is very inexpensive and can be purchased anywhere. According to customer reviews, it takes up to 2 months to see results, and most report significant reduction of stretch marks by 40%.

Revitol Stretch Mark Prevention Cream

According to moms and customers with newly formed stretch marks, it is one of the best working creams for fresh stretch marks, or to prevent stretch marks formation. It contains 100% natural ingredients such as squalene oil, vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin D3 as well as aloe vera and grapefruit seed extracts.

Intensive Concentrate, Stretch Mark Cream with Shea Butter

One of the highest rated creams for fresh stretch marks and their prevention. It has been has clinically tested to lighten and reduce the appearance of your stretch marks in the first 3-4 weeks of the recommended usage. It repairs Collagen, nutrient necessary for stretch mark free skin, and contains skin tightening agents with Vitamins C, E and A are the main essentials to help protect and repair the skin from further damage.

Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Oil

Mama Mio Tummy Rub consistently receives highest reviews, and average of 5 stars on Amazon. Pregnancy & Birth Magazine Award Winner 2006 & 2007 – Best Pampering Product. Several reviewers mentioned Mama Mio Tummy Rub helped them go through three pregnancies without a hint of stretch marks. Plus, Tummy Rub is laden with fatty Acids – Omegas 3, 6, and 9.

Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil

Top reviewed item, easily absorbable hypoallergenic blend of natural oils. Perfectly suitable for pregnancy stretching areas. Backed with Mama’s Promise™, Earth Mama Angel Baby products are purely natural, naturally safe.

Revitagen-FX

According to Amazon customer’s reviews, Revitagen-FX is superior to other white stretch mark removal creams, and produces consistent results. Revitagen’s does the following:

* Minimizes the appearance of stretch marks * Improves firmness and tone of skin * Stimulates collagen formation * Improves pigmentation and reduces discoloration * Hydrates skin

TriLastin SR Stretch Mark

Trilastin is one of the best solutions for stretch marks caused by rapid weight gain, body building, puberty, pregnancy, and other. TriLASTIN-SR’s® patented formula provides rapid reduction in the visibility of stretch marks. TriLASTIN-SR maximizes elasticity in order to avoid dermal tearing under excessive stress. It’s hypoallergenic mix of ingredients and enzymes stimulates the ongoing cell regeneration process to make positive visible change on dermal scars while thickening the skin’s epidermal layer which normalizes the skin’s surface. Trilastin SR helps with healing and diminishing the appearance of existing old white stretchmarks.

Before and After Photo of one patient using Trilastin

Intensive Concentrate Strivectin-SD

Strivectin-SD, one of the best known brands, has been long on the market intended for the removal of hard to get rid of stretch marks, usually white. Many reviewers reports positive results when used consistently for over 3 months, applied twice daily. Strivectin-SD is now comes with a complex of 8% (NIA-114+ Peptide) actives to improve the appearance of white and stretchmarks in just 2-8 weeks.

Plastic and Laser Surgery

Laser surgery for stretch marks is usually performed through application of topical creams and ointments prior to surgery. Then a laser is applied to affected stretch marks areas to evaporate and break down bad cells, and jump start the regeneration of new fibroblast cells to form new collagen. Stretch marks are characterized by lack of collagen. Fibroblasts produce new collagen and elastin formations and improve the appearance of stretch marks, in most cases stretch marks can be diminished by up to 75%.

Laser treatments vary by type of laser, duration, and light technology. Fresh and old stretch marks are treated differently, and success ratio favors newly formed red or pink stretch marks. White stretch marks are harder to work with, however, most laser surgeries can improve white stretch marks by up to 50% or more. Several treatments is usually needed for satisfactory results. For red stretch marks removal, lasers usually use concentrated light to penetrate the dermis and stimulate cell production. For white stretch marks removal, since they are older and damaged had set in, most lasers work by ripegmenting problem areas by using narrow band frequencies, ultraviolet light, or stronger laser lights.

Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment The Pulse Dye Lasers are the first choice of treatment for fresh red or pink stretch marks. They work by reducing inflammation and redness of skin while at the same time stimulating production of new cells in areas scarred by stretch marks. The Pulsed Dye Laser fires concentrated beam of light aimed at blood vessels in the skin. When skin’s blood vessels are destroyed by laser’s heat, the body starts a natural process of wound healing, and sends new cell agents to generate fibroblast cells which in turn produce new collagen and elastin. Side effects usually include slight bruising and temporary pigmentary changes. Symptoms clear within 2-10 days. Patients usually need 4-5 treatments, and improvements can be seen in skin’s color and texture.

Fractional Resurfacing The fractional resurfacing laser treats stretch marks, wrinkles, acne, and other. The fractional laser produces small microthermal treatment zones and penetrates deep into the dermis to stimulate fibroblast regeneration and new collagen. This fractional treatment heals the skin relatively fast by using body’s wound healing processes to create firmer, tighter, better skin with less stretch marks. Clinical studies show effectiveness of treatment with 4 to 7 sessions.

Smartxide Dot Laser Smartxide DOT Therapy uses a “dot” pattern to create hundreds of tiny holes in the treatment area while leaving the remaining surrounding tissue intact. This way the skin heals very rapidly, and dot patterns allow doctors to create precise treatments to satisfy each individual. By creating mini dot damages in skin it stimulates collagen formation and makes skin firmer with better tone. This technique is effective for ugly textured stretch marks.

The following lasers get rid of stretch marks by using pigmentation techniques, so if one has white stretch marks it will become pigmented and resemble surrounding skin thus masking stretch marks appearance.

Excimer Laser Excimer Laser uses ultraviolet light to penetrate skin and become absorbed by biological matter and organic compounds. Excimer laser disrupts disrupts molecular bonds of scarred tissues, and then body’s natural healing processes do the rest of job by regenerating new fibroblast cells leading to new collagen formation. This in the end leads to proper skin repigmentation while fills up stretch marks with new collagen.

Relume ReLume is FDA approve laser device intended to renew skin pigment lost by stretch marks. ReLume uses flashes of light along with computer-controlled fiber-optic technology to project concentrated laser light to the stretch marks and restore melanin in problematic areas. The ReLume system light rays are meant to stimulate the production of melanin to restore the lost pigment in the affected area.

PHAROS Excimer Laser PHAROS excimer laser is a xenon chloride laser that gets concentrated painless, high-dose monochromatic 308nm UVB phototherapy directly to white stretch marks while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. PHAROS excimer lasers deliver only monochromatic 308nm, arguably the most efficient band for repigmentation and collagen formation.

Benefits:

- Little or no downtime

- Non surgical treatment of stretch marks

- Improves texture and deeper dermis

- Some lasers require only few treatments

- One doesn’t have to massage creams all over body twice per day, one laser treatment works for a month or a week

Cost starts at $150 and up per treatment. In some cases when the progress is not as good as expected the doctor may reduce treatment fees.

TCA Chemical Peels

A Trichloroacetic Acid chemical peel is acid, and when applied to skin it gently (depends on strength) burns outer layer epidermis, and body’s natural wound healing processes do the rest – regenerate new skin. New skin looks fresh, rejuvenated, and with better and improved texture.

Chemical peels vary in strength and function. There are light, medium, and deep chemical peels, each serves specific treatment and skin types.

Light chemical peels are used to treat fine lines, acne, dry skin, and is usually removes only the upper layers of damaged skin. Light peels usually contain alpha hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acids, when applied they promote skin cell regeneration.

Medium chemical peels produce more dramatic results and penetrate the skin deeper. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is usually used in these procedures. Medium TCA peel helps get rid of stretch marks by removing damaged skin or stretch marks textures, and within 5 to 6 treatments one ca see significant improvement in overall stretch mark appearance.

Deep chemical peels are the most dangerous and aggressive type of chemical peels. Phenol is usually used in deep peels, and patients can expect to see dramatic results. Under no circumstances should the deep peels by done by amateurs. Deep peels pose danger of permanent skin discoloration or hypopigmentation, so it may make matters worse. The advantage of deep peels is they are able to penetrate into dermis and stimulate cell growth to fill up affected stretch marks with new collagen, thus improving pigmentation and firmness of skin. Before After Credit: (c) Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

TCA Chemical peels alone won’t produce desired results since they work by removing the outer layer of damaged skin. And stretch marks are caused by damage in the dermis, deeper level of skin.

A combination of TCA peel, sand abrasion, and application of post-peel creams will produce improvement by up to 90% in newer stretch marks, and 75% for older white stretch marks.

Sand abrasion – removes keratin barriers and increases skin permeability, and stimulates keratinocyte turnover. Sand abrasion indirectly causes the stimulation of fibroblasts necessary for new collage formation in stretch marks, and for better penetration of TCA.

TCA peel stimulates dermal fibroblasts and keratinocyte turnover which helps improve overall stretch marks and skin texture.

Post-peel creams stimulate epidermal regeneration while inducing a controlled inflammation at the depth of stretch marks thus increasing collagen production.

The method above combines several treatments rather specific one and produces great results by considering shortcoming of each treatment and using combination to defeat all disadvantages.

“The sand abrasion is performed just deeply enough to remove the corneocytes. Removing this layer allows the patent TCA-based peeling solution to penetrate. This solution is made with less than 15% m/m of TCA. If the concentration of TCA is higher, the resulting protein coagulation may inhibit penetration of the cream. Also, higher concentrations of TCA might ‘burn’ the tissue and are more prone to produce dyschromia as well as potential scarring. The goal of the patent TCA based peeling solution is to stimulate the fibroblasts of the healthy zones between striae.” – Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2, 61-67.

Cost of treatment is from $75 to $600 per peel. Multiple treatments are needed requiring from 7 to 10 treatments to see great results. Cost may be greatly reduced by doing chemical peels yourself at home. One MUST consult a physician or medical profession before proceeding with chemical peels.

Massage

Stretch marks removal massage involves two stages:

1) Exfoliation massage

2) Application of stretch mark creams or topical creams

By applying exfoliation scrub mix to stretch marks and massaging it in shower will help improve and even out ugly stretch marks texture. Massage itself stimulates blood circulation in skin and promotes fibroblast stimulation, and new collagen formation. After the massage topical creams with vitamin E are applied to moisten and nourish exfoliated skin.

Exfoliation massage is done while in bath or shower using a massage tool with scrub mix or cream. Scrub mix is applied to stretch marks areas, and then mix is massaged over and into skin with massage tool by performing circular motions.

Exfoliating Scrub mix can be anything that helps with removal of outermost layer of skin – epidermis.

IMPORTANT: For every Stretch Marks Scrub Mix below add Aloe Gel or juice.

Basil Oil and Oats Scrub Grind the oats in a grinder and mix them with 3 teaspoons of applie cider and honey to make a mix. Then add basil oil to the mix.

Olive Oil and Sugar Scrub Mix sugar and olive oil to make a thick mix. Then carefully scrub the affected stretch marks areas.

Olive oil and Salt Scrub Mix sal and olive oil and stir thoroughly. Rub stretch marks areas with this mix and leave for 15 mins.

Baking Soda Scrub Mix baking soda with water and apply to stretch marks areas as you would with any other scrub mix.

Coffee Scrub Mix ground coffee with olive oil and use as scrub mix. Coffee has to be grounded and have strong enough texture to help with skin exfoliation.

Scrub Creams There are many specialized skin exfoliation and stretch mark exfoliation creams, so you can use them too instead of home made scrub mixes.

After applying exfoliation scrub mix on affected stretch marks areas, use a massage tool (such as pictured below) to massage scrub mix into skin by using circular motion for over 15 minutes.

It is important that stretch marks become red or pinkish. Even old white stretch marks should become pink. This will indicate increased blood circulation in affected areas thus helping to increase collagen formation in traumatized by stretch marks skin areas.

After 15-20 minutes of massage simply wash off scrub mix and dry the areas really good. Apply topical and stretch marks creams as much as necessary. Scrub temporary opens many pores in epidermis and allows for better cream penetration right after scrub massage.

Keep doing this every 3-4 days but not everyday! It is essential to give skin 2-3 days to recover and regenerate. Most see dramatic results and stretch marks reduction by 50% in 6 months. If doing for 2 years stretch marks will become almost unnoticeable.

Collagen Induction Therapy

Collagen Induction Therapy, also known as medical skin needling therapy intended to stimulate collagen and elastin production by injuring dermis layer of skin. This technique uses body’s natural wound healing responses to heal intentional albeit tiny damage to skin. Wound healing regenerates new collagen structures and results in firmer, better looking skin. In most cases, micro needling hardware and derma rollers are fitted with several hundreds of micro needles that deliver tiny but numerous injuries with purpose to penetrate epidermis and reach dermis. Once dermis is damaged the body uses natural agents and cells to generate new fibroblasts and collagen to fulfill injured areas with missing collagen.

Stretch marks are damaged scar tissues in skin that lack collagen and elastin. By injuring stretch marks over a period of time, the body will heal, tighten and improve texture of stretchmarks by itself. The benefit of micro needling and CIT is that it reaches its destination – dermis, and relatively easy and convenient to use. The downside is slight pain and stinging when applying this technique on stretch marks areas. Most people find derma rollers very convenient for home use.

Derma Rollers

Derma rollers are simple hand held roller devices with 192 surgical steel micro-needles which are able to puncture the top layer of the skin without damage. They can be ordered online and used anywhere: at home, work, bus, train, almost anywhere. It is recommended to have topical anesthetic cream to apply 30 minutes before derma roller application. There are different micro-needles lenghts which come in sizes 0.5mm, 1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm and 2.5mm . The bigger and deeper the stretch marks the bigger needles will one need. However, for most cases 1.0mm and 1.5mm is sufficient enough.

Following collagen induction therapy, it is useful to apply topical vitamin (E, C, other) creams that will easily penetrate the outer layer of skin into epidermis, thanks to tiny holes from skin needling.

Noticeable changes can be seen in as little as week. It is recommended to have 3-4 day breaks to allow the body to repair itself. Skin completely renews itself every 40 days. Keep on using derma rollers for several months and results won’t disappoint – you will see stretch marks diminish by at least 50%. The author of this website personally used this method and seen stretch marks improved by 40% in 2 months of use.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is one of the popular cosmetology techniques used to improve and diminish red and white stretch marks appearance. Microdermabrasion is done through application of tiny super strong grains to scratch and remove the outermost layer of skin. This is done to remove outer dead skin and stimulate circulation with skin renewal process. When skin’s surface is scratched, cells begin to divide and stimulate fibroblast formation needed for collagen formation. Abundance of collagen leads to firmer, thicker, and more uniform pigmentation.

Microdermabrasion by itself won’t necessarily produce dramatic results since it removes dead skin cells from the outermost layer of skin – epidermis, while stretch marks both red and white are caused by collagen and elastic fiber loss in dermis, the deepest layer of skin. However, since microdermabrasion removes outer epidermis layer of skin, if it is combined with stretch mark creams and enzymes then creams will penetrate outer layer more efficiently and will reach dermis. Proper application of creams with microdermabrasion have potential to improve hyperpigmentation as well.

The average price range is from $80 to $250 in many salons and spas. When done by specialized surgeons and dermatologists in clinics the cost ranges from $150 to $350 per treatment.

Light and Color Therapy

Light and Color therapies involve incoherent out of phase lights, the light are dis-synchronized, this is in direct contrast to laser. Light therapies are uses as treatment for various diseases of skin, body, and health conditions of mind. Ancient Greeks described the use of sunlight to heal various medical disorders. People in ancient times weren’t able to explain why sunlight works so well to cure various problems, but the results weren’t concerned about explanations. Arabian, Roman, and Middle Eastern doctors have used light therapy extensively to treat the patients. Nowadays it is known that the human organisms and cells transform light into electrochemical energy, which activates a chain of biochemical reactions within cells, stimulating metabolism and reinforcing the immune response of the entire human body. There are two types of Light therapies: Narrow UV (ultraviolet) and Non-UV Broadband treatments, with later given more preference since UV may cause damage to skin. Narrowband therapies usually use a tiny fragment of Light frequency while Non-UV devices such as Bioptron use a variety of frequencies. UV therapies are more specialized while Non-UV have a wide range of uses.

How to get rid of stretch marks using Light and Color Therapy

Light and Color therapy is very efficient way to treat red and white stretch marks. Unlike creams or surgery, there is no need for physical contact with skin during treatment. Colored Light is aimed at affected stretch marks, and, since light is able to penetrate deep into skin’s dermis, cells convert light into electrochemical energy, and jump start fibroblast and cell regeneration. New fibroblasts form new collagen, and ugly depressed stretch marks become thicker, firmer, and pigmented. It is a widely known fact that Red Light is especially effective for collagen formation, red color seems to work great for fibroblast stimulation.

Credit: (c) Bioptron

One example of Light and Color therapy device is Bioptron. Bioptron Light is a polychromatic light, it contains visible light and a portion of the infrared range. The wavelength of BIOPTRON Light ranges from 480 nm to 3,400 nm. It has biostimulative properties, and when the light is applied to skin it stimulates light-sensitive intracellular structures and molecules. The cellular chain reaction triggers reparative and regenerative processes of the human defense system. Bioptron’s light penetrates to a depth of about 2.5cm in a typical 4-6 minute treatment. It penetrates the epidermis and reaches the dermis.

Ultraviolet Light therapies to treat stretch marks use a narrow band light such as 296 nm, or 405-450 nm. UV light is known to stimulate pigmentation melanin precursors in treatment of stretch marks. Clinical studies have shown the therapeutic effectiveness of UVB to be between 295 to 313 nm and that wavelengths below 300 nm are likely to cause a strong erythemal burning. Doctors or medical professionals may adjust band frequency when considering factors such as frequency of therapy, health of individual, and type of treatment.

Essentially, all light based therapies repair collagen and pigmentation in stretch marks. The major benefit of light therapy is ease of use and reduced need for topical creams and ointments. They are very effective for the treatment of stretch marks and vitiligo.

New Cell Therapy – Cell Injections

In United Kingdom a new stretch marks treatment is being tested at University College, London under supervision of Dr. Mark Lewis. This cell therapy treatment involves injection of human skin cells – fibroblasts to problematic stretch mark areas. Fibroblasts are key cells responsible for the formation and production of collagen, hair, skin, and nails.

“Fibroblasts seem to have exquisite judgment of how much stuff they should produce. They know what to do because they know what is involved in normal maintenance.” explained Dr. Lewis.

Stretch marks are essentially trauma or scar areas defined by lack of collagen and elastin. Empty white or reddish areas indicate lack of collagen and skin tissue. Cell therapy, also called living cell therapy, works by injecting patient’s own fibroblasts to stretch marks and then wait until new cells form new collagen and elastin required for stretch marks improvement. As new collagen develops, stretch marks texture will even out, and surrounding pigmentation will begin resemble surrounding skin. First, a patient’s body is examined for rapid cell growth areas. Second, the extraction and isolation of fibroblasts is done. And last, fibroblasts are injected into affected stretch marks areas.

In Texas, a biotech company Isolagen have been conducting studies on fibroblast cell treatment injections and its use to get rid of stretchmarks.

“We have carried out 15 case studies and seem to be having great success with depressed or indented stretch marks. Raised stretch marks are proving more difficult… but we are working on it” said Bob Sexauer of Isolagen.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is a cosmetic treatment that includes injecting tiny quantities of vitamins, extracts, cosmetic chemicals, homeopathic agents into skin. Mesotherapy is usually used to get rid of fresh red and old white stretch marks, turn around skin aging, improve skin sags, and of course to eliminate cellulite.

Mesotherapy is a skin rejuvenation process. Stretch marks usually have one thing in common – lack of collagen. Mesotherapy works by injecting skin healing ingredients into middle layer of skin through electrophoresis. This allows for better skin regeneration environment where cells slowly reproduce and produce new collagen needed to improve appearance of scars and stretch marks. New fibroblast cells produce elastin and collagen resulting in more uniform pigmentation around problematic stretch marks areas.

Is treatment painful ?

There is some burning sensation and stinging with pinching. However, pain is comforted by application of topical anesthetic. Pain is eliminated.

How many treatments are needed ?

Evaluation of initial skin conditions is necessary to provide accurate assessment on how many treatments will be performed.

Endermologie Treatment

Endermologie is FDA approved non-invasive method for cellulite removal. Endermologie works with dual action rollers, and uses suction to redistribute skin and smooth away skin indentations. While Endermologie is focused on cellulite removal, it is also useful for stretch marks removal and weight loss. Some theories propose that Endermologie creates a fibrous layer that promotes healthier skin by supporting body’s fat cells. Skin rolling is time proven technique used by mongols to help recover battle wounds and other skin problems.

How can Endermologie help get rid of stretch marks ?

Endermologie is a deep massage that increases blood circulation up to 400%, stimulates collagen (protein found plentifully in your skin), exfoliates skin, softens stretch mark scar tissue, and increases lymphatic flow 200%. Even though its original intended purpose is for cellulite removal it can also be effectively used to get rid of white and red stretch marks. After several treatments skin will become softer, smoother, and vibrant. Wide stretchmark scars will tighten and blend in with surrounding skin. Several treatments are necessary to achieve desired results or great improvement in the appearance of red and white stretch marks.

How long do Endermologie stretch marks treatments take?

The treatment is done once or twice a week for 7 – 8 weeks. Each visit lasts around half hour.

Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that act as a catalysts in organisms, regulating the rate at which organism’s chemical reactions proceed without being altered in the process of reaction. Enzymes reduce the the quantity of energy needed to power and strengthen these reactions. If there were no enzymes, these reactions would be impossible. Enzymes play vital role in the digestion of foods, transformation of milk into cheese, wound healing, wine fermentation, and beer formation.

How can Enzymes help get rid of stretch marks ?

Since enzymes can provoke and accelerate reactions by several orders of magnitude, they are useful in jump starting fibroblast regeneration under skin. Fibroblast is a type of skin cell that constructs collagen and elastin which make up extracellular matrix in skin.

Most of enzymes have much smaller molecule than regular topical creams. This gives enzyme an advantage because it is able to penetrate outermost layer of skin – epidermis, and penetrate deep into dermis. When in dermis, enzymes catalyze fibroblast production thus resulting in new cell regeneration and overall improvement of skin appearance.

What is the secret behind enzymes efficiency for getting rid of stretch marks?

Enzymes are able to find and transform damaged protein tissues from stretch marks, and replenish them with new cells generation healthy skin tissue. It is especially useful for old white stretchmarks that are hard to work with.

What are the benefits of using enzymes for skin health ?

- Improved skin texture and tone

- Improved collagen and cell growth

- Improved inner skin cell environment

- Better skin penetration rate compared to regular topical creams

- Great results with both red and white stretch mark improvement

What brands of enzyme creams would you recommend ?

We recommend only one tested and proven product:

BIOSKINCARE brands –

Carboxytherapy

Carboxytherapy is the administration of CO2 (carbon dioxide) gas for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Carboxytherapy is one of the effective treatments to get rid of stretch marks red and white, when other treatments failed or were subtle. Carboxytherapy boosts blood flow into stretch marks areas allowing cells to regenerate more blood vessels thus making stretch marks smaller, tighter, while improving their texture and appearance with surrounding skin. Carboxytherapy is also very effective against scars caused by acne.

Carboxytherapy works by introducing small amounts of Carbon Dioxide inside of skin to boost the amount of red blood cells which eventually increase the blood circulation. When cells work they release tiny amount of carbon dioxide, that’s a natural and normal process. When organism gets too much carbon dioxide, the red blood cells quickly and frantically expel excess carbon dioxide out of body through lungs and release oxygen.

Carboxytherapy before and after results

Improved blood circulation carries cells and nutrients to damaged areas thus improving overall stretch marks appearance and coloration.

Where to get Carboxytherapy treatment ?

“Dr. Zdinak is pleased to introduce CO2Touch™ Brazilian carboxytherapy to her Manhattan clientele. CO2Touch™ represents the latest advances in carboxytherapy technology. In response to Dr. Zdinak’s specialized requirements, CO2Touch™ delivers a continuous stream of gently heated gas that is adjustable for added patient safety and comfort.”

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Therapy

Intense Pulse Light phototherapy helps to significantly diminish red and white stretch marks appearance by 50 to 75%. Photorejuvenation (phototherapy) works by improving stretch mark texture and return back the damaged pigmentation caused by scar cracks inside dermis. IPL is not a laser, it’s a pulsed light applied to skin that was treated with gel prior the treatment. Special topical cream is applied to stretch marks areas several weeks before treatment. This propels cell growth in damaged areas. When IPL is applied it stimulates cell multiplication through its penetrating light that gets deep in hard to reach areas in layers of skin, thus getting rid of stretch marks. In contrast, creams are not as effective in penetrating dermis.

The treatment is not painful and has slight sting effect to it. There will be some swelling after and treated areas may appear dark but it will disappear shortly, and will not cause further damage to skin. New cells help to refill cracked and damaged tissues in dermis and epidermis. The result is greatly improved texture and skin coloring.

How much does it cost to get rid of stretch marks using IPL ?

The cost is between $100 and $400 per session with 4-5 treatments needed to get rid of stretch marks. Usually if buying a series of treatments it will cost approximately $800 – $1000.

Moomiyo

Moomiyo is a sticky substance similar to tar with a dark brown color found in Central Asia and Caucasus regions. Basically, Moomiyo is bats’ poop leftovers that react with surrounding environment and through complex natural processes produce dark to white color substance. It contains humin, humic acid, fulvic acids, and hymatomelanic acid, essential oils, amino acids, polyphenols, and other fatty acids. Aristotle described Moomiyo as a remedy with stimulant and general antiseptic properties used in Central Asia region. Russians have been conducting research on Moomiyo for over 80 years, and have been using it for health and performance purposes.

How can Moomiyo help get rid of stretch marks ?

Moomiyo has excellent wound healing properties and increases body’s natural defense organisms to improve health and heal wounds. Having this fact in mind, many Russian moms began using it as a remedy. According to many reports, Moomiyo especially effective against white stretchmarks. Most report great results within 2 applications.

How it’s done:

Crush Moomiyo pill and mix it with either water or topical oil, and massage into stretchmarks areas. Massage combined with Moomiyo’s wound healing properties stimulate cell growth inside epidermis and dermis.

Remedy #1: 1 gram of Moomiyo mix with rose oil (or other similar topical oil), the quantity of oil depends on the size of stretchmarks. Massage the mixture everyday before bed.

Remedy #2: Dissolve 2 grams of Moomiyo in 1 teaspoon of distilled water. Mix it with 3oz of any child cream or cellulite cream. Massage into problem areas one time daily. Store in refrigerator.

Remedy #3: 4 grams of Moomiyo mix with 50 ml topic cream. Massage daily before bed using circular motion.

Therma Radio Frequency

Therma Radio Frequency is a high tech approach to skin healing backed up by scientific research and technology in United States. The effects of Therma Radio Frequency or radio waves help renew and improve overall appearance of skin through fibroblast and collagen regeneration.

Is Therma Radio Frequence effective solution to get rid of stretch marks ?

Yes, it is an excellent solution to get rid of stretch marks of red and white stretch marks. Stretch marks are characterized by lack of collagen in skin tissue. Therma RF is able to penetrate into deep dermis layer and produce needed collagen to smooth the skin texture and pigmentation. When administered, radio waves penetrate deeply into skin to reach dermis layer and jump start the fibroblast stimulation. Fibroblasts produce new elastin and collagen fibres. Unlike creams that rarely go beyond superficial epidermis layer of skin, radio waves are able to penetrate areas that creams cannot.

How many treatments does one need to get rid of stretch marks ?

Usually 10 treatments produce dramatic results.

The advantage of using therma radio frequency to get rid of stretch marks is convenience and painless surgery technology that allows go on about business right after treatment.

Plastic Wraps

Plastic wraps or body wraps are used in cosmetic stores and spas to minimize the appearance of fresh red and old white stretch marks, cellulite, to lose weight, and remove toxins. Plastic wraps can be done in home environment with just as much efficiency as in professional spa treatment center.

To get rid of stretch marks using plastic (Saran) wraps – Rub and apply Castor oil or Olive oil freely on your stretch marks and cover them with plastic wraps. Place a hot water bottle on the plastic wrap for about 1/2 hour. Repeat the procedure daily or twice per day. When using plastic wraps make sure to get the ones without Bisphenol-A, toxic and potentially cancerous substance found in plastic products. Results can be seen in a week or less but for best results keep using this technique for a month.

Dangers:

When using plastic wraps keep these points in mind:

1) Plastic wraps cause dehydration, and long sessions without enough hydration can cause loss of precious electrolytes needed to produce metabolic reactions. Lack of water in the skin can cause weaknesses, headaches, lightheaded and dizzy. We recommend to drink lots of water before during and after plastic wrap to retain hydration.

2) Diminished blood flow has potential to brake capillaries and to cause spider veins.

3) Some wraps are petroleum based substances that present danger of toxic chemical absorption through prolonged exposure to naked skin.

Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin and fat tissue from lower abdomen area. Tummy tuck is usually done for patients with lots of loose tissues and skin (sagging skin) which mostly happens after major fat loss. Abdominoplasty tightens abdominal tissues and improves belly shape. Mini Tummy tuck incision is usually six inches long while Body lift can cover entire waist. However, the most common procedure such as regular Tummy tuck is done from hip to hip.

Tummy Tuck or abdominoplasty is one of the best methods to complete remove red or white stretch marks. Tummy Tuck involves complete removal of skin from belly, so it doesn’t matter how bad or old the stretch marks are, they will get removed considering they are in area suitable for surgery. One major advantage of Tummy Tuck is that it takes little time to remove stretch marks compared to other methods requiring several treatments over several months. However, tummy tucks are limited to area below the belly button, so some stretch marks will remain but most will be gone. Stretch marks above umbilicus have little chance to be removed by tummy tuck. Also remember that you may end up trading stretch mark scars for surgery scar.

Recovery

Recovery takes from 1 to 4 weeks and full recover can be expected from 2 to 6 months. Strenuous activity must be avoided.

Risks

As with other surgical procedures, Tummy Tuck carries its own dangers:

- Bleeding

- Skin Loss

- Skin discoloration

- Asymmetry

- Nerve damage

- Keloid, very bad scar

- Wound separation

Cost

Cost ranges from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on individual circumstances, body lengths, severity of case, etc. Most insurance companies won’t cover tummy tuck as it’s a cosmetic rather necessary for health reasons procedure. Make sure to discuss all hidden costs up front with your medical professional.

Camphor

The recipe:

2 ounces of camphor oil 1 ounce of cold pressed organic peanut oil 1/2 teaspoon of camphor

Camphor is a white waxy substance with a characteristic odor. It originates from wood of the camphor laurel. Camphor has been a treatment of choice in ancient Sumatra to heal swellings along with inflammation. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and makes a feeling of cooling like that of menthol, and acts as antimicrobial and anesthetic substance.

Technique:

You can make own camphor oil by dissolving camphor crystals in olive oil. The technique is simple: mix the ingredients and apply the mixture to affected areas after scrub, twice per day. The benefit of this method is that many people report noticeable improvements in removal of old white stretch marks. Since camphor is able to penetrate the outer layer of skin with few difficulties, it is able to reach the dermis layer and heal torn stretch mark pathways which in time turn from white to color similar of surrounding healthy skin. This method is also found in famous Edgar Cayce’s recipe.

Biological Cell Regeneration Therapy

Autologous Medical Processis or the use of patient’s blood to extract Platelets (cell fragments) and stem cells to repair the skin damage done by tears in tissues known as stretch marks. Platelets are clinically proven to recognize and boost growth factors that are essential towards natural restoration of damaged fibrin, a fibrous protein involved in the clotting of blood. After the fibrin is restored, the natural vascular links may be renewed to transport the all essential blood supply as well as Collagen. Basically, this process links and reconnects dead areas of striae with the abundant vascular blood supply making it possible for the skin layer to recover and return to normal.

One of the newest procedures that make use of biological cell regeneration therapy is BioOpulence® which are known in the cosmetic surgical community as being results producing non-invasive therapy, without having risk of rejections because the stem cells and platelets that are applied are collected from the patient before the procedure. This unique approach to treating the stretchmarks reverses them permanently while it costs a fraction of the price of other less effective treatments.

BioOpulence® treatments introduce the 8th generation cell transplant therapy known as Platelet Rich Plasma in addition to a series of Collagen induction therapies. The inclusion of lotions, creams, and diet with exercise is meant to moisturize and help repair skin.

To learn more, visit official BioOpulence treatment website – .