How to hide stretch marks on the stomach: with the help of procedures, tattoos, laser, photos

Yulia Prokopenko, leading technologist-expert

educational

Expert opinion

Stretch marks, or stretch marks, are a cosmetic defect of the skin in the form of narrow wavy stripes. 80% of women have stretch marks. They appear on the chest, hips, buttocks - in those places where the skin stretches the most. Striae do not pose any health hazard, but can bother a woman with an unaesthetic appearance. You can get rid of stretch marks using an integrated approach.

Yulia Prokopenko, leading technologist-expert

educational

What causes stretch marks on the body

Striae are scar-like tissue that forms due to insufficient elasticity of the skin. Stretch marks can form either due to physiological changes in the body or be a consequence of various disorders or diseases. People suffering from hormonal imbalance and problems with the thyroid gland are predisposed to the appearance of stretch marks. The hereditary factor is also of great importance.

The most common causes of stretch marks include:

• pregnancy;
• lactation;
• sudden weight gain or loss;
• intense exercise and rapid increase in muscle mass;
• growth spurts during adolescence;
• hormonal imbalance;
• regular use of drugs containing corticosteroids.

During pregnancy, stretch marks appear on the stomach and chest. When you gain weight, they are localized in places where fat accumulates - thighs, buttocks. Athletes often experience stretch marks in the shoulder girdle.

Lifting cream with mango and shea butter Mango Lifting-Cream, 200 ml

Raspberry Cream Scrub, 300 ml

Anti-Stretch Complex Oil, 150 ml

Correction of stretch marks

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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The formation of stretch marks is caused by insufficient production of collagen and elastin - substances responsible for the elasticity of the epidermis. Therefore, when the skin is overstretched, the reticular layer of the dermis is torn along with the vessels, collagen and elastin fibers, and narrow stripes are formed on the body.

Striae are not a disease. Scars do not impair the quality of life, but they can negatively affect the emotional state, reducing self-confidence. That is why many strive to reduce their appearance and restore smoothness to the skin.

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.

How stretch marks appear

The formation of striae goes through several stages. At each stage, stretching has its own characteristics.

• After the elastic cover ruptures, connective tissue is formed, penetrated by blood vessels. Striae have a purple or red tint.
• Over time, stretch marks lighten and turn pink.
• Old scars completely lose their pigment and the color of the stretch marks becomes white.

Of course, it is easier to deal with “young” stretch marks and you need to take action immediately after they appear. If stretch marks have formed for a long time, it is quite difficult to completely get rid of them.

It is impossible to get rid of stretch marks forever and restore ideal smoothness to the skin even with the help of hardware cosmetic procedures. But you can make stretch marks less noticeable at home. To do this, you need to choose the right tools and effective procedures.

Home care for preventive purposes is especially important. For example, if a woman knows about her predisposition to stretch marks, and she is planning a pregnancy or has already become pregnant, she should devote all her efforts to caring for her body skin. This will help keep the skin intact even with not very successful heredity and avoid the appearance of stretch marks after pregnancy.

Foundation for legs and body to hide stretch marks

This cream hides all noticeable imperfections on the skin of the legs and gives them an attractive tan.

This cream has the following properties:

• easy to apply;
• has rapid absorption;
• does not leave an oily sheen on the skin;
• gives instant visible results;
• You can wash it off with soap;
• looks like a self-tanner.

Having chosen a foundation for your legs, you need to apply it correctly.

The skin should be:

• shaved;
• purified;
• moisturized.

1. Good lighting is necessary for uniform distribution of the product.
2. It's better to use a foundation spray. You need to spray the product at a distance of 10-15 cm. Then you need to rub it evenly over the skin with a sponge and wait until it is completely absorbed.
3. The product should be applied in a dense layer.
4. If necessary, you need to use a corrector. Using it, you can quite easily hide bruises, possible scars, as well as contusions.
5. In order to consolidate the result, you need to apply powder

Ways to eliminate stretch marks

The fight against stretch marks must be carried out comprehensively. Here are the basic skin care steps that will help correct existing stretch marks and prevent new ones from appearing.

• Exfoliation.
• Massage.
• Moisturizing and strengthening.

We have collected all the necessary tools for you in one set. The complex for correcting stretch marks
includes a dry massage brush, stretch mark oil, raspberry cream scrub and lifting cream.
Let’s take a closer look at effective procedures and products that will help you make stretch marks almost invisible on your own.

Prevention

Ideally, of course, you should avoid stretch marks. To do this, follow simple recommendations:

• You can do special exercises aimed at stretching the muscles. Walk more, do light exercise, even 10 minutes a day will be enough;
• Adjust your diet. Make sure your diet has enough protein, acids and vitamin E. Eat fruits and vegetables;
• Drink enough water per day (about 2.5 liters), if possible, take a shower without gels and soap;
• During pregnancy, wear a bandage and special bras;
• Use natural scrubs and during massage use only natural-based creams;
• Don't overdry your skin.

However, prevention does not always help. If stretch marks have already appeared, then you have several options for solving the problem, both in the salon and at home. The salon may offer you laser resurfacing, radiofrequency therapy, chemical peeling, microdermabrasion or mesotherapy. It all depends on your specific needs and wishes. But usually this applies to already old stretch marks. If stretch marks have recently formed, they can be reduced using home remedies for stretch marks. The main thing to remember is that the process can take a couple of months, and don’t give up!

At home, you can fight stretch marks in several ways:

• Self-massage. Massage the abdomen clockwise in a circular motion, massage the buttocks horizontally from the center to the edges of the hips, massage the waist and thighs from bottom to top vertically. You can use oils to moisturize or special creams for stretch marks. Use a natural brush;
• Cold and hot shower. This improves blood flow and keeps the skin toned;
• Scrubs. This way you get rid of dead skin particles;
• Physiotherapy. You can buy a home massager, simple and reliable.

You can use home remedies for stretch marks on your skin. They are made quite simply, most often from simple components.

Exfoliation

A simple way to eliminate stretch marks is to regularly exfoliate the skin. This procedure will help remove dead particles of the epidermis and activate cell renewal. Deep cleanse your skin 1-2 times a week using effective yet gentle exfoliants from the ARAVIA Laboratories line.

• Raspberry Cream Scrub qualitatively renews the skin, making it soft and radiant. Pine nut shells in the scrub have an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect. Pink clay is rich in microelements (silicon, iron, calcium and magnesium) and effectively relieves dryness and flaking of the skin. Raspberries refresh and lighten pigmentation. Vitamins E, PP, A and B2 tone the skin and prolong its youth.

Coffee scrub to cleanse skin and hide stretch marks

To prepare it you will need to take ground coffee - 1 tsp. and gel, which is used for shower, then add mumiyo (10 g).

The resulting composition must be applied to problem areas daily for 30 days.

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Massage

Dry massage with special brushes - drybrushing - gives an excellent result in the fight against stretch marks. With regular use of such brushes, the skin is cleansed of dead particles, becomes smooth and soft, cellulite and stretch marks become less pronounced. The main rule of dry massage is that movements should be in the direction of the lymph: from the feet to the heart.

Dry massage is easy to perform yourself at home - the whole process will take no more than 15 minutes. Brushes make the skin elastic and well-groomed, and also relieve stress, relax muscles and activate recovery processes.

For a massage to be effective, it is important not only to do it correctly, but also to choose a quality brush. ARAVIA accessories are made of beech wood and natural bristles. Natural materials will make the procedure tactilely pleasant, and the long handle will allow you to work on hard-to-reach areas.

Brushes vary in degree of hardness:

• soft, suitable for beginners and those with sensitive skin;
• The medium one will appeal to those who have already tried drybrushing and want a more intense effect on the skin.

Remember: any massage technique requires prior consultation with a specialist.

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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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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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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