They have millions of women singing the post-pregnancy beauty blues, but stretch marks are not something you have to live with.
Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Mary Lupo says Stretch Marks, or Striae, are caused from a disruption in the elastic tissue of the skin from overstretching. While pregnancy and gaining weight can cause stretch marks, Dr. Lupo says what really determines whether or not you’ll get stretch marks, is whether you’re mom had stretch marks. Yes, they’re hereditary!
Dr. Lupo says an aggressive Retin-A therapy can be effective, when started early, on some women. Dr. Lupo often combines the therapy with Olay’s Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum, which she says has the exact same active ingredient as Strivectin, but at a much lower price. The only problem with the Retin-A regiment for some moms, is that it should be started as early as possible, and if you’re breast feeding retinoids should not be used.
Silk Peel Dermilinfusion is another option for patients. This particle-free form of microdermabrasion uses products like Vitamin C to infuse into the stretch marks. Dr. Lupo says Silk Peel can usually be tolerated by all skin types and colors, and is often the best bet for darker skin patients who can’t tolerate the more aggressive lasers because of the risk of hyperpigmentation. Silk Peel takes about 20 minutes, costs between $125-$150 a treatment, and 4 to 6 treatments are usually recommended. While Silk Peel can be effective, Dr. Lupo says it is not as aggressive as laser therapy.
When all else fails, Dr. Lupo says the new Fraxel Dual laser is a patient’s best bet. Usually 2 to 3 treatments are needed on the stretch marks, and the cost per treatment - depending on how large the area is to be treated - runs from $800-$1200 per session. Although the area is numbed and pain medication can be administered by your physician, some patients say the procedure is somewhat uncomfortable. Patient Amanda Bravender told us that although the 20 minute Fraxel procedure was uncomfortable, after just one treatment she’s seen dramatic results, and will continue with 2 more treatments.
For more information on the products and procedures in tonight’s story, email me at cshreves@abc26.com.
Dr. Mary Lupo, Board Certified Dermatologist
Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
145 Robert E Lee Blvd, Suite 302
New Orleans, LA 70124
504-288-2381
www.DrMaryLupo.com
