Cellulite and Stretch Marks are a concern that many of us have in common and is a condition that could potentially have major effects on our self–confidence and well-being. For most individuals, stretch marks and cellulite are part of their genetic code and are, to an extent, unavoidable. An individual’s metabolism, circulation, and fat distribution have also been shown to predispose one to cellulite. Everything from hormones and puberty to unhealthy lifestyle choices can cause dimples and marks on the skin. Fortunately, cellulite and stretch marks are harmless, as they are purely cosmetic flaws that can simply be treated with various non-invasive procedures in our clinic.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is the lumpy and dimpled skin that affects almost 90% of women, regardless of weight or age. In fact, most women develop cellulite after puberty. This is because female fat cells are typically distributed in the thighs, hips, and buttocks — common areas for cellulite. It is also a condition that is more common with ageing, as the skin loses its elasticity.
The reason why this is a common condition for women is because of differences in the way fat cells, muscle, and connective tissue are distributed in men’s and women’s skin. It is caused by a breakdown of the skin’s connective tissues. When this fat accumulates, it pushes against and distorts the connective tissue beneath the skin, causing the appearance of ‘lumps’ or ‘dimples’ on the skin.
What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks occur when collagen fibres in the dermis layer of the skin are stretched, ruptured, or torn over time – and as a result, the damaged collagen fibres turn into scars. Stretch marks are a result of skin stretching and an increase of cortisone in your system. Cortisone is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands. However, having too much of this hormone can make your skin lose its elasticity.
Due to a breakdown of collagen and elastic fibres located in the deep layers of the skin, the inner layer of the skin rips, and the layers beneath it will fill in the cracks, causing these marks to appear. They are visible through the intact epidermis and are commonly referred to as stretch marks. Its causes are usually pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss and sudden growth during puberty.
What treatments are available?
1. Carboxytherapy
Carboxytherapy is a non-surgical treatment that dramatically improves the appearance of the skin by improving local tissue metabolism and perfusion through increased blood flow. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is injected into the subcutaneous tissue, and from the injection point, the carbon dioxide diffuses easily into adjacent tissues. Injecting the CO2 deep into the cell tissue can assist with the breakup of fat cells which are then removed via the body’s natural elimination process. Carboxytherapy can help treat hard-to-reach pockets of fat as this method tricks the body into producing oxygen, thus safely treating cellulite and fatty areas.
For stretch marks, injecting this CO2 substance into scar tissue can result in the production of collagen, making scarring less visible. Carboxytherapy stimulates certain growth factors that encourage the production of new blood vessels which provides a surge of oxygen and nutrients to the treated area. This process improves circulation and long-term collagen stimulation, and can also be used to treat other scars, such as those caused by acne, surgery, or burns.
2. Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy involves injecting a cocktail of vitamins, homoeopathic ingredients, amino acids, and medications into the mesoderm layer of the skin, targeting the adipose fat cells. The medications used in mesotherapy are naturally occurring proteins and enzymes that break down the fat cell membrane and its structures that keep the fat together, thus creating a smooth, dimple-free appearance on the skin.
Stretch marks are the result of excessive stretching of the skin, which can cause the collagen and elastin fibre network to tear. Collagen is the tissue that binds the skin’s structure together, once this is lost it can result in the unevenness that one usually associates with the stretching of the skin, and as a result, so–called ‘stretch marks’ are formed. Mesotherapy treats this condition by stimulating the skin’s regeneration process and increases collagen production, ultimately minimizing the appearance of stretch marks.
Depending on the specific type of cellulite or stretch marks involved, our practitioners will decide between carboxytherapy or mesotherapy during an initial consultation. In some cases, both treatments are combined to achieve the best results. Both procedures are known to be safe with no major side effects, however, as with any injectable treatment, mild to moderate soreness can occur which can last up to 3-5 days. Although most individuals find these treatments to be painless, a topical anaesthetic is available to patients. Book your consultation now with one of Azalis Aesthetic Clinic’s experienced medical practitioners.
