What Are Stretch Marks and How Do You Get Rid of Them?

What are Stretch Marks?

Living in South Florida means wearing shorts and sundresses year-round. It means bathing suits are the norm, and our skin is often exposed. It also means that if you have any kind of skin abnormality, e.g. scars, wrinkles, skin discoloration, etc., you probably take notice, and might not be too happy with the possibility that others take notice too.

One of these skin woes that both men and women deal with during various stages of life is the appearance of stretch marks. Stretch marks, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, are scars that develop when the skin either abruptly stretches or shrinks and causes a tear in the deepest layer of the skin, called the dermis. This results in the rupture of the collagen and elastin that supports the skin, which leaves a permanent scar as it heals. That scar is what we all have come to know as a stretch mark.

How to Get rid of Stretch Marks

When stretch marks first appear on the surface of the skin, they may be very dark purple or red and could also appear raised, puffy and/or itchy. Thankfully, over time their appearance becomes less intense. The color fades to more of a skin tone shade that is slightly darker than your normal coloring. The marks will also flatten out and either become even with or sit just below the level of the surrounding skin.

Although not everyone will develop stretch marks during their lifetime, it most commonly happens during times when there is some kind of hormonal change happening to the body, especially if it includes any kind of extreme weight loss or gain. Teenagers may experience stretch marks during a growth spurt that happens as they go through puberty. Athletes may develop stretch marks from the rapid muscle growth that occurs while training. Women, in particular, may notice the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy. In fact, 90% of women experience stretch marks while pregnant in places such as the belly, buttocks, thighs, hips or breasts.

Although stretch marks are permanent scars, there are many ways to reduce the appearance of these visible streaks and make them much less noticeable. There are some things you can do on your own that may help prevent stretch marks from happening in the first place, such as staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight, but most of the time, stretch marks are inevitable.

Few Rules of Thumb

The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests following a few rules of thumb when attempting to treat your stretch marks at home. There are creams, lotions, and gels marketed at targeting stretch marks, but these may not work the same for everyone. The AAD recommends using these products in the early stages of your stretch marks, as they tend to have little effect on mature stretch marks. When using the products, make sure to gently massage it into the skin where the stretch marks are located, as this might increase the overall effectiveness. For optimal results, it’s ideal to use the product every day for a decent amount of time, as sometimes it can take weeks before you can see any results.

There are some beliefs that using almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil or vitamin E will help with stretch mark appearance, there is no research to support that these natural products help the marks fade. Another myth is that tanning helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Unfortunately, the exact opposite will happen. The stretch marks will not tan, and thus, become even more noticeable. Self-tanner, however, can help. Since the self-tanner is applied all over, it will help mask the marks and make them blend in with the rest of your skin.

The other non-procedural option for treating stretch marks is to have your dermatologist prescribe medicine that can be applied to the target area. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and tretinoin are the most commonly used to help make stretch marks less noticeable.

If you have tried all of these treatments, but aren’t seeing results, there is another option — and that’s where Fox Vein & Laser Experts can help! We offer the PicoWay Resolve laser skin rejuvenation treatment, which helps to restore the skin’s elasticity and change the pigmentation of the skin so the stretch marks are not nearly as noticeable.

PicoWay Laser

The PicoWay laser is safe to use on all skin types and colors. It also provides a very comfortable patient experience because the skin never gets too hot. The laser uses extremely short bursts of energy, which reduces the amount of contact with the skin during the treatment and therefore decreases the risk of discomfort. It also reduces the amount of downtime needed after the procedure has been done. Minimal pain or downtime, maximum results — those are the features we like to hear!

This cutting-edge technology is so advanced that not only does it help immensely with reducing the appearance of stretch marks, but it can also be used for pigmentation and age spot removal and any signs of aging in general, as well as removing unwanted tattoos.

Get Rid of Stretch Marks With Our Help

When it comes to skin rejuvenation, there is no better laser technology than PicoWay Resolve. It only takes a few sessions before your skin looks tighter and brighter in all the right places. Your skin irregularities are no match for the PicoWay laser, especially if the Fox Vein & Laser Experts team is in charge. Did you know that we were the second practice in all of Broward County to offer this treatment to patients? There are only a handful of practices in South Florida that have it, and we are proud to be one of them!

If your stretch marks are bothering you, you’ve come to the right place. Call our offices in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines to schedule a consultation with our team. We know how frustrating it can be to feel uncomfortable in your skin, but once you’ve experienced PicoWay Resolve and have seen the results, we bet you will be feeling much better!

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): What You Need to Know

February 27, 2025

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As a division of Vivid Vascular, Fox Vein & Laser Experts provides advanced vascular care and education on conditions like PAD to help our patients take control of their vascular health.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

PAD is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly affecting the legs. This reduced circulation can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and even serious complications if left untreated.

Signs & Symptoms of PAD

Many individuals with PAD don’t experience symptoms until the disease has progressed. However, common signs include: Leg pain or cramping while walking, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs or feet, slow-healing wounds or ulcers on the legs and feet, coldness in the lower leg or foot, skin discoloration or hair loss on the legs, weak or absent pulses in the legs

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek evaluation from a vascular specialist.

What Causes PAD?

PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. Common risk factors include:

Smoking Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Family history of vascular disease

Why PAD Awareness is Important

Left untreated, PAD can lead to severe complications, including non-healing wounds, infections, and even limb amputation. Furthermore, PAD is a warning sign of serious cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and strokes. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing these life-threatening complications.

How is PAD Diagnosed?

At Fox Vein & Laser Experts, a division of Vivid Vascular, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect PAD, including:

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): A simple test comparing blood pressure in the arms and legs.
Ultrasound Imaging: Helps assess blood flow and locate blockages.

Treatment Options for PAD

The good news is that PAD is treatable! Treatment plans are tailored to the severity of the disease and may include:

Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, regular exercise, and a heart-healthy diet can improve circulation.
Medications: Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medications to improve blood flow.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Atherectomy: Removes plaque buildup from the arteries.
- Angioplasty & Stenting: Uses a small balloon to widen the artery and a stent to keep it open.

Why Choose Fox Vein & Laser Experts for PAD Treatment?

As part of Vivid Vascular, our team offers expert vascular care with cutting-edge technology in a comfortable, boutique-style setting. Our minimally invasive treatments provide effective relief with quicker recovery times and minimal downtime.

Schedule Your PAD Consultation Today! If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of PAD, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life. Contact Fox Vein & Laser Experts today to schedule a comprehensive vascular screening and take control of your vascular health!

Fox Vein & Laser Experts | A Division of Vivid Vascular Call us at 305-957-7277

Visit us at www.foxveinexperts.com

Veins

Top Benefits of Choosing VeinGogh Treatment in Miami, FL

June 29, 2024

If you’re living in Miami and in search of a safe and effective solution for unsightly and uncomfortable spider veins, VeinGogh treatment may be just the right treatment you’ve been looking for.

This innovative procedure offers a variety of benefits, providing a quick, safe, and reliable way to eliminate small spider veins on your face, legs, feet, or anywhere else on the body they may be present.

VeinGogh vein treatment is a cutting-edge method used specifically to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure uses Ohmic Thermolysis technology, which delivers microbursts of high-frequency energy directly to the vein, causing the vessel walls to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.

This revolutionary technology is able to target spider veins with such precision that it avoids damaging the surrounding tissue or leaving scars on the skin. This makes it a much more preferred choice compared to other traditional vein treatment methods.

VeinGogh is minimally invasive and typically performed in a medical office. First, you’ll come into the office for a consultation with a vein specialist who will evaluate your medical history, as well as the current state of your veins to determine if VeinGogh is the right option for you.

Remember, not all veins are treatable with VeinGogh. A patient who is suffering from larger varicose veins or feeder veins may not be a candidate for the procedure. This will all be discussed during the initial consultation.

On the day of the treatment, the targeted area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort. The procedure involves a frequency regulator called Microburst Technology, which is delivered to the affected veins. These bursts are incredibly short — only a fraction of a second. The veins will shrink and eventually disappear, and blood is then rerouted to healthy veins.

Because of how quick and precise the bursts of energy are, it is a more comfortable experience, safe for all skin types, and there is largely decreased risk for visible scars. The process only takes around 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of veins being treated.

After the treatment, you may experience minor redness or swelling in the treated area, but these side effects are usually temporary. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

VeinGogh Treatment is an excellent option for many individuals, but it’s particularly beneficial for those who have small, superficial veins; are looking for a minimally invasive solution; have tried other spider vein treatments without seeing any success, and are in generally good health. Patients who have certain significant underlying conditions could experience complications during the procedure.

Choosing this particular option for spider vein treatment has numerous advantages. Some of the benefits of VeinGogh include:

1. Precision and Control: VeinGogh allows for precise targeting of veins, ensuring effective treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

2. Quick and Convenient: The procedure is very quick, typically taking only around a half hour to an hour, depending on the size of the area. It requires no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

3. Minimal Discomfort: The treatment is virtually painless, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort during the procedure. It’s a much more comfortable procedure when compared to other traditional methods.

4. Effective Results: VeinGogh effectively eliminates spider veins and small varicose veins, providing visible results after just one session. It also provides flexibility to treat other types of skin imperfections such as rosacea cherry angiomas.

5. Safe for All Skin Types: Unlike some laser treatments, VeinGogh is safe for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for a diverse range of patients.

6. No Scarring: The precision of the VeinGogh system ensures that there is no scarring or significant skin damage, preserving the aesthetics of the treated area.

7. Long-Lasting Effects: Results from VeinGogh are long-lasting, especially when supplemented with a healthy lifestyle and proper vein care post-treatment. After treatment, patients continue to see improvement over time as the veins are absorbed and removed by the body.

VeinGogh is safe and effective when done on its own, but it can also be used in conjunction with Sclerotherapy for even better results. Sclerotherapy is another treatment used for spider vein removal that uses injections with medication in liquid or foam form. Just as with VeinGogh, it’s a very quick procedure that provides optimal results.

South Florida is home to top-notch medical facilities and specialists, so if you are looking for VeinGogh treatment in Miami, you have come to the right place. The expert team at Fox Vein & Laser Experts have several years of experience providing patients with successful VeinGogh procedures, as well as numerous other vein treatments.

If you are struggling with small spider veins and seeking a safe, effective solution, consider all of the benefits of VeinGogh treatment. With its precision and effectiveness, minimal discomfort, and long-lasting results, VeinGogh offers an ideal option for treating spider veins and small varicose veins. Contact our office at 954-627-1045 for a consultation or book an appointment online.

Skin Rejuvenation

Prepping for Your Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: What You Need to Know

June 28, 2024

We all want radiant and youthful skin, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by adding a skin rejuvenation treatment series into our routine.

There are a variety of treatments that can be considered skin rejuvenating. Laser procedures are safe and effective for treating more serious skin concerns. These devices work by targeting specific skin concerns such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.

For laser skin rejuvenation in Miami at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we offer PicoWay® Resolve, which is a fractional laser treatment that utilizes the shortest wavelength of laser energy available on the market today.

It is safe for all skin types and shades. Due to the energy being delivered in such short bursts, the skin never heats up too much. That results in a much more comfortable experience for the patient, with optimal results and no need for extended downtime.

Additional options to rejuvenate the skin include microneedling, facials and chemical peels. Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production, which improves skin texture and firmness.

Facial treatments range from basic facials to more advanced ones like chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Facials aim to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin, while advanced treatments target specific concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging.

The secret to maximizing the benefits of these treatments, however, lies in proper skin preparation.

Preparing your skin before any rejuvenating skin treatment ensures optimal results, minimizes risks, and promotes faster healing. Here are some basic things you should know about prepping your skin for a rejuvenation treatment:

Consultation and Assessment: Before undergoing any skin rejuvenation treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified skincare specialist is essential. They will assess your skin type, concerns, and medical history to recommend the most suitable treatment and preparation steps.

Avoid Sun Exposure: This is incredibly important. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications during and after a treatment. For at least two weeks prior to your appointment, avoid excessive sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have a sunburn, we recommend rescheduling your treatment.

Discontinue Certain Medications and Products: Some medications and skin care products can increase skin sensitivity. Inform your provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products. Typically, you will be advised to stop using retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other exfoliants at least a week before treatment.

Hydrate and Moisturize: Your skin will respond better to the treatment and heal faster when it’s well hydrated. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and use a good quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid using any new products that could potentially irritate your skin.

Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly: On the day of your treatment, cleanse your skin thoroughly to ensure all makeup is gone, and any oils and impurities are cleared away. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser, and avoid scrubbing your skin. It’s important that your skin is clean and free of any barriers that could interfere with the treatment.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: Each type of skin rejuvenation treatment may have specific pre-treatment instructions. During your initial consultation, our team will go over all of these instructions with you to make sure you are well-prepared for treatment day.

For laser treatments specifically, avoid photosensitizing agents. Certain skincare ingredients and medications can make your skin more sensitive to light. Avoid these for at least a week before your laser treatment.

For microneedling, you may want to consider numbing cream, especially if you are sensitive to pain. Microneedling can be uncomfortable on certain parts of the face and body. Numbing cream can be applied about 30 minutes prior to the treatment. If you think you may want to do this, make sure to account for that extra time when scheduling the appointment.

Proper post-treatment care is just as crucial as pre-treatment preparation. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

After getting a skin rejuvenation treatment, you should:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 diligently.
Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause sweating for a few days.
Not pick or scratch the treated area to prevent scarring and infection.

Proper skin preparation is the foundation for a successful skin rejuvenation treatment. If you follow all the steps outlined above, as well as anything else that your provider suggests, you are more likely to achieve your skin goals. This also minimizes the risk of developing complications.

With the right preparation and care, you’re on your way to enjoying healthier, more radiant skin.

To schedule an appointment with our skin rejuvenation specialists at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, contact us at 954-627-1045 or book online.