Estriax Anti-Stretch Mark Cream. An innovative and effective anti-stretch mark solution, with an excellent texture and cosmetic qualities
Our skin is an elastic tissue thanks to collagen and elastin, two structural proteins that provide it with support and flexibility. The passage of time is a factor that can alter skin’s elasticity, but there are other situations where our bodies change significantly, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding, puberty, sudden weight changes or certain pharmacological treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, which can also diminish skin’s cohesion. These are the times where we run the risk of developing stretch marks.
Stretch marks or striae are marks on the skin caused by the breakage and partial loss of the collagen and elastin fibres found in the dermis. They are characterised by the localised thinning and indentation of the skin, causing linear depressions with an irregular texture and a reddish, purplish or pearly colour, depending on their age.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding, the most delicate time
A high percentage of young people develop stretch marks when their body is transformed by the onset of puberty. But this risk increases further during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Between 75 and 95% of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, particularly after the 24th week, a time when the skin stretches rapidly. The areas most sensitive to the tearing of fibres are those where the change in volume is more accentuated, such as the abdomen, breasts, buttocks, thighs and hips.
This sometimes results in an aesthetic problem which could be prevented through the correct use of specific products that avoid their appearance and development.
Estriax prevents their development and improves their appearance
Laboratorios Viñas, a brand backed by extensive experience in dermatological products, presents Estriax, a cream that prevents the development of stretch marks and improves the appearance and visibility of existing ones.
Its formulation includes Hidraelast, an innovative compound with highly hydrating and active ingredients derived from pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo) which promote collagen synthesis and protect skin’s network of elastic fibres by inhibiting their breakdown by proteolytic enzymes. It thus helps reduce the development of stretch marks and boosts skin’s elasticity and flexibility. In addition, the Estriax formula contains lipid esters and glycerine, which provide flexibility and work to protect and hydrate the skin.
Estriax’s efficacy has been demonstrated through conclusive studies: A clinical study carried out using Estriax for 8 weeks in 84 women at risk of developing stretch marks due to pregnancy or with existing stretch marks showed that in 83% of cases, Estriax prevented the development of new stretch marks, with excellent tolerability and cosmetic qualities. The overall preventive efficacy was considered good by 93% of the women participating in the study.
In another study comparing Estriax with Hidraelast versus placebo, the percentage variation in skin’s biomechanical properties was assessed after 12 weeks’ treatment in 33 female volunteers (average age = 37 years). This study demonstrated a significant improvement in tone, elasticity, deformation and regression of the areas treated with Estriax compared with placebo.
5 TOP TIPS TO PREVENT THE DEVELOPMENT OF STRETCH MARKS
- Hydrate skin: hydrated skin is less vulnerable to developing stretch marks. To achieve this, it is very important to get into the habit of drinking enough water during the day (especially during the warmest months) and to apply a moisturising cream daily.
- Avoid sudden weight changes: when skin is stretched over a short period of time, the dermal elastic fibres can break, causing stretch marks. It is important that any changes in body weight take place in a gradual and stable manner over time.
- Prevent the development of stretch marks during adolescence: due to the changes that take place during this time of life – both growth and development – it is important that young people are made aware and get into the habit of keeping skin well hydrated.
- Avoid the development of stretch marks during pregnancy: pregnancy is associated with rapid stretching of the skin, particularly on the abdomen. For this reason, from the first month of gestation, it is essential to hydrate skin in-depth and apply an anti-stretch mark product daily. You are recommended to start using these products from the start of pregnancy, but it is an absolute must beyond the 24th week of pregnancy, especially in first-time mothers, as this is when the incidence of stretch marks is at its highest.
- Treating stretch marks: the sooner the better. If a sudden change in volume is expected, it is necessary to apply anti-stretch mark creams containing hydrating and nourishing active ingredients and stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, as a preventive measure. Once they have appeared, it is important to continue the treatment to avoid their growth and further development. It should be kept in mind that the evolution of the lesions depends on the treatment given in their early phases, when they are known as striae rubra and are still pinkish or purple in colour.
