Postpartum stretch marks are a reality for many women and can significantly affect self-esteem. But the good news is that there are treatments that can significantly improve their appearance. In this short guide, we'll explore some of the most effective options currently available for stretch marks in pregnancy and discuss how you can make the right choice for your needs!
What are post-partum stretch marks and why do they occur?
Stretch marks are a type of scarring that occurs when the skin stretches rapidly, which is very common during pregnancy. This sudden stretching can cause the skin's collagen and elastin fibers to break down, resulting in unsightly lines on the abdomen, breasts, thighs and buttocks. Hormones that change significantly during pregnancy can also contribute to the weakening of collagen fibers and make the skin more fragile and prone to stretch marks [1].
Post-partum stretch marks tend to affect the self-image of new moms, but fortunately modern medicine offers effective solutions. Various innovative treatments are available at Cronos Med specialty clinics that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Main treatment options for post-partum stretch marks
Treatment options currently available include:
Carboxitherapy
This is one of the modern methods used to treat stretch marks. The procedure involves injecting carbon dioxide into the skin to stimulate blood circulation and increase collagen production. The newly formed collagen helps restore the skin's structure, reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
Carboxitherapy is minimally invasive and offers remarkable results after just a few sessions. The procedure is quick and requires no recovery time, so you can immediately return to your daily activities. Immediately after treatment, however, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for two hours and hot baths for four hours [2].
Microneedling with Vivace
Another effective technique for reducing the appearance of stretch marks is Lively. It combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency to stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin. The procedure involves the use of micro-needles that create small controlled lesions in the skin to trigger the body's natural healing process.
Radiofrequency applied at the same time as microneedling penetrates deep into the skin, providing superior results compared to microneedling alone. As a result, the skin becomes firmer and smoother, and stretch marks fade visibly. The treatment is comfortable and does not require significant recovery time [3].
Chemical peeling
In order to stimulate skin regeneration, practitioners can also use an innovative chemical peel such as PRX-T33. This contains a unique combination of trichloroacetic acid, kojic acid and hydrogen peroxide, which penetrates deep into the skin and stimulates collagen production [1]. The procedure is ideal for treating post-partum stretch marks as it does not require needles and is discomfort-free. PRX-T33 improves skin texture and significantly reduces the appearance of stretch marks, with visible results after a few sessions.
Dermapen and CronosDerm
These two therapeutic options are based on the principle of microneedling, which stimulates skin regeneration by creating controlled microlesions. CronosDerm uses 300 steel nano-needles to create up to 25,000 microchannels per minute, stimulating collagen and elastin production. The technique helps fade the color of red stretch marks on the tummy or thighs and improve skin texture. The procedure is effective and requires a small number of sessions to achieve optimal results. Dermapen Stretch Marks treatment, a similar device that performs 1,300 microinjections per second, can be equally useful [1][4].
Fractional CO2 laser therapy
Fractional CO2 laser is a minimally invasive treatment that can improve mature (white) stretch marks. This advanced technology uses beams of light to create controlled microlesions in the skin, stimulating cell regeneration and collagen production.
Fractional CO2 laser treatment requires a recovery period as it produces a controlled burn to the skin. However, the results are excellent and bring a visible improvement in skin texture and color after a few sessions [1]. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations to ensure a proper recovery and maximize the benefits of the treatment.
How do you choose the right option?
Choosing the right treatment for stretch marks after childbirth depends on several factors, including the type and age of stretch marks, your skin characteristics and your preferences. An experienced Cronos Med team can assess your skin condition and present you with the most suitable options. For example, if your main concern is to correct the appearance of stretch marks on your breasts, you may need a different treatment option than if you are dealing with stretch marks on your buttocks or thighs. Each of the treatments we've outlined has its own advantages and can be customized to meet your specific needs. In addition, combining some procedures can provide even better results, depending on your doctor's recommendations.
Postpartum stretch marks don't have to remain a problem that causes you discomfort. With the advanced technologies and innovative treatments available at Cronos Med, you can regain your confidence and enjoy firmer, smoother skin. From carboxytherapy and microneedling with Vivace, to PRX-T33 and Dermapen, there are effective solutions to treat stretch marks and restore your skin's natural beauty.
Schedule a consultation with a Cronos Med specialist now and discover the right treatment for you. With the help of our dedicated team and state-of-the-art technologies, you'll be able to achieve your aesthetic goals and feel great in your own skin!
Sources of information:
[1] Marie, Simone. "What Are the Best Ways to Remove or Fade Stretch Marks Post-Pregnancy?" HealthlineHealthline Media, 30 Oct. 2020, www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/stretch-marks-after-pregnancy. Accessed on June 19, 2024.
[2] Gotter, Ana. "What You Should Know about Carboxytherapy." Healthline, Healthline Media, Oct 18, 2017, www.healthline.com/health/carboxytherapy. Accessed on June 19, 2024.
[3] "Stretch Marks - Diagnosis & Treatment - Mayo Clinic." Mayo Clinic, 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stretch-marks/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351144#treatment. Accessed on June 19, 2024.
[4] WebMD Editorial Contributors. "Remedies for Stretch Marks after Pregnancy." WebMD, WebMD, Nov 20, 2020, www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/remedies-for-stretch-marks. Accessed on June 19, 2024.