mommy’s skin

is a deeply penetrating, bio-active topical cream that was originally developed to repair stretch marks. You may recognize it more as an anti-aging formula, which was actually an accidental discovery when women started using it to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. Even though it was developed as a product for treating existing stretch marks, it more recently became a recommended cream by medical experts (according to US Weekly) for the prevention of stretch marks.

StriVectin SD is applied to clean, dry skin, three times daily. A small amount should be massaged into the stretch marks, using a circular motion until absorbed by the skin. You may start seeing results in as little as 28 days, notably a visible reduction in the actual length, depth, volume and surface area.

Clinical trials have documented the formula’s ability to visibly reduce the depth, length, discoloration and roughness of existing stretch marks. As you may, or may not know, stretch marks are the result of split and broken collagen fibers. Researchers theorized that a peptide involved in collagen production and wound healing might also help repair stretch-marked skin. Studies have shown that peptides play an essential role in increasing cells in the skin to produce more collagen, which is an integral part of your body’s natural responses to healing wounds.

Researchers noted that up to 93% of the subjects in their clinical data showed a measurable reduction in visible stretch marks. Further observations have documented the formula’s ability to decrease the length and depth of stretch marks, increase firmness, thickness and smoothness of the skin surfaces and lessen discolorations. Additionally, the combination of skin firming agents and hydrators provided in StriVectin SD has made it one of the most powerful formulations clinically proven to effectively deal with the numerous aspects of stretch mark repair.

While we are on the subject of clinical trials, data, etc. it should be noted that results may vary from individual to individual, as everyone’s skin is different, and the severity of an individual’s stretch marks may also have a bearing on the results. It would be wise to also keep in mind that while it is reported to be safe and effective, it is marketed as a cosmetic and has not gone through the extensive clinical trials necessary for it to be approved as a drug. Since this product is marketed as a cosmetic, it is not subject to the same FDA approval as drugs.

So is to be used for stretch mark prevention, or as a cure for the appearance of existing stretch marks? Since we usually do not try to find out how to get rid of stretch marks until we already have them, one would think that this product has been used as a remedy for the most part. Its increasing popularity has prompted some sources to reason that the proprietary combination of skin firming agents, elasticizers, and skin hydrators contained in StriVectin SD could possibly help to aid in the prevention of stretch marks. The trouble with this theory is that unless you know that you are prone to stretch marks, you might be spending money needlessly. To date, this theory has not been definitively proven, so the decision is up to the individual.

Blue light therapy is another option that is sometimes confused with laser therapy. It is similar in that it reduces the appearance of stretch marks, along with the fact that it may take numerous treatments, but it seems to be less costly than laser overall.

This treatment uses a photosensitive gel which is applied to the skin, then followed by applying a high-intensity light in a series of bursts over the area of skin with pigmentation. Most people experience no discomfort during the treatment and some compare the after effects to a mild case of sunburn. There is minimal to no recovery time needed.

Blue light therapy was created to treat a number of skin pigmentation conditions, like mild to moderate acne, rosacea, spider veins, some varicose veins and tattoos. Like many therapy methods out there for the millions of people searching for stretch mark solutions, blue light therapy may help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but it will not remove them.

Again, as with any medical procedure, you should research your options and consult with doctors who specialize in the method of treatment you are seeking.

Laser treatment has become increasingly popular over recent years for everything from anti-aging treatments to tattoo removal, so it was only natural for lasers to be the next step in treating stretch marks. Laser therapy is a simple procedure that requires little to no recovery time – however it doesn’t come cheap, as multiple treatments are usually required.

Several laser methods can be used for treating stretch marks. Laser skin rejuvenation, is a process that helps your body to create new collagen, without removing any layers of skin. Stretch marks form partially because they’ve lost healthy collagen and a laser procedure can help restore that. Laser Skin Resurfacing is another method that basically peels off a layer of skin, which allows newer skin to grow back in its place.

If you are seriously considering laser treatment for your stretch marks, it would be wise to carefully research the professionals and facilities offering these services. “Shop around” for qualified professionals who have extensive experience in this area and check out more than just one or two doctors before making your choice.

Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions, check out their credentials, their training and the number of times they have performed the procedure for those contemplating how to get rid of stretch marks. Ask to see “before and after” pictures of other patients they have treated for the same procedure, so you will have a better idea of what to expect (keeping in mind of course that everyone’s skin is different) and if this is the best solution for you. Get a complete explanation from the doctor as the recommended treatment plan, what to expect and so on.