Originally formulated to combat the appearance of stretch marks, StriVectin-SD is now marketed as a complete solution for aging skin. The company website states, "Why bother with ordinary wrinkle creams when you can reduce wrinkles and stretch marks with StriVectin'SD. Plus get smooth, youthful'looking skin!"
The company claims that the secret is Striadril, a registered name for the product's proprietary blend of 18 key ingredients.
How It Works
There are several ingredients in the StriVectin-SD formulation that may help improve the appearance of stretch marks, minimize the appearance of wrinkles and provide an overall improved appearance to skin tone.
"Small chain peptides in specific sequences may be able to imitate some biological processes to stimulate repair, while other oligopeptides may inhibit processes that accelerate the signs of aging," says Mary P. Lupo, MD, in "Cosmeceuticals." Palmitoyl Pentapeptide 4 is said to stimulate collagen, while Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is included to restore skin elasticity, providing a smoothing effect.
Darutoside, a complex of two performance ingredients, was created by Croda Inc. It is recommended for use in the treatment of stretch marks because of its healing, regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Phyllantus Emblica, a fruit that is native to tropical southeastern Asia, is used as an antioxidant and skin-lightening ingredient. In "Cosmeceuticals," Marta I. Rendon, MD, and Jorge I. Gaviria, MD, state that sufficient studies are lacking to clinically support these claims.
The use of oils in the product, including sesame oil, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter and shea butter will give skin a more smooth and supple appearance because they provide hydration and temporarily fill wrinkles, softening their appearance.
Contraindications
Although the StriVectin-SD directions claim that there are no contraindications to the use of the cream, the company does recommend that people with conditions like rosacea, eczema and psoriasis use the cream under the supervision of a physician. They also recommend a patch test before using the cream on the face.
In "Skin Care Beyond the Basics," Mark Lees, PhD, lists some of the oils used in StriVectin-SD as comedogenic, meaning they may clog pores, which could cause breakouts for people with acne-prone skin.
As with any topical cosmetic product, people allergic to specific ingredients should avoid using the product or use it with caution.
Warning
StriVectin-SD contains peppermint oil, which is not recommended for use around the eyes. The company has an eye cream formulated without peppermint oil for those wanting to combat smile lines around the eyes.
Guidelines for Use
According to the company's website, StriVectin-SD should be applied several times a day for maximum results. The instructions from the website state, "Begin with clean, dry skin. Using a circular motion, apply to the face and other problem areas of the body as needed. "
The company recommends continued use of the product to maintain results.
Significance
For those in the market for a wrinkle cream and stretch mark treatment, StriVectin-SD combines both into a single product. The company backs the product with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to test it without risk.
References
- StriVectin®-SD
- "Cosmeceuticals"; Peptides and Proteins; Mary P. Lupo, MD; 2005
- Chemidex
- "Cosmeceuticals"; Skin Lightening Agents, Marta I. Rendon, MD, and Jorge I. Gaviria, MD; 2005
- "Skin Care Beyond the Basics"; Mark Lees, Ph.D.; 2006
