horsetail extracts (Equisetum arvensis) They have long been used in the manufacture of products to reduce stretch marks. Thanks to its silicon content, this plant seems to be useful for healing the skin and improving its appearance. But is it as effective as many claim?
It should be remembered that stretch marks are a form of scarring of the skin produced by stretching of the dermis, during growth, weight gain or hormonal problems. Often localized on the buttocks, legs and abdomen. However, they also appear on the breasts and back.
As detailed by one publication in National Center for Biotechnology Information, its treatment aims to increase the production of collagen and elastic fibers, as well as hydration. To do this, a wide variety of products were tested. Next, we focus on the possible effects of horsetail.
Possible benefits of horsetail for the treatment of stretch marks
Horsetail, scientific name horsetail arvensis, belongs to the family equisetopsid and comes from the temperate regions of Europe. Since ancient times, it has been an herb with various medicinal applications. As far as the skin is concerned, it is attributed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and tonic properties.
A research published through BMC Complementary medicine and therapies details that it is an abundant source of flavonoids, triterpenoids, phytosterols, potassium, calcium and, above all, silicic acid and silicates.
The latter are evaluated on an aesthetic level, since its assimilation into the skin is associated with numerous benefits, such as the reduction of stretch marks. In this regard, the a shared study in Anais Brasileiros of Dermatology details that silicon plays an important role in collagen synthesis.
It also intervenes in the activation of hydroxylation enzymes, crucial for the formation of the collagen network. With this, it improves the strength and elasticity of the skin.
The downside is that there is no conclusive evidence on the effects of horsetail in treating stretch marks. Beyond the anecdotal data, no studies have confirmed its anti-stretch mark effect to be true.
Conversely, dermatology experts continue to debate the effectiveness of topical products in reducing stretch marks. according to to research Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereologythere is little evidence to support the use of creams or lotions for stretch marks.
How is horsetail used in the treatment of stretch marks?
Despite the lack of evidence, there are those who attribute positive effects to horsetail treatments for stretch marks. In fact, there are several products on the market that include the extracts of this plant among their components.
On the other hand, popular literature has reported several home preparations. They combine natural ingredients that They promise to nourish the skin from the outside to minimize this problem. Let’s look at some recipes.
1. Horsetail oil
A shared studio away International journal of molecular sciences details that the application of certain vegetable oils contributes to skin barrier repair, healing and collagen synthesis. In this case you can combine horsetail with olive, coconut or almond oil.
ingredients
- 200 milliliters of vegetable oil (of your choice).
- 100 grams of horsetail.
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil over low heat.
- Then add the horsetail, previously crushed.
- Leave it on the fire for about 5 more minutes and remove it.
- Then, when it rests, pass the oil through a fine sieve and store it in a glass container.
- Use the product by gently massaging the areas to be treated.
- Apply it every night before going to bed.
2. Horsetail infusion
The infusion of this plant It is used as a lotion to hide the appearance of stretch marks. However, it should be used at the same time as a moisturizer.
ingredients
- 20 grams of horsetail.
- 2 cups of water (500ml).
Instructions
- Pour the horsetail into the cups of boiling water.
- Cover the drink and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine sieve and pour into a spray bottle.
- Spray lotion on desired areas. Massage and leave for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and moisturize with your favorite cream.
More recommendations for reducing stretch marks
There is no miracle formula to get rid of stretch marks overnight. Many treatments, in fact, can only mitigate them.
To this end the American Academy of Dermatology suggests the following:
- Use anti-stretch mark products on the first ones that appear. The substances are often ineffective on already mature stretch marks.
- Massage until the substance is well absorbed. This is believed to enhance its effect.
- Be consistent with the treatment. That is, use it for several weeks in a row.
- Choose products that have hyaluronic acid and tretinoin in their components.
- Access professional dermatological treatments. Some helpful ones are chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion.
What is there to remember?
The use of horsetail treatments to reduce stretch marks has become widespread. Despite this, there is no conclusive evidence of its effects and benefits.
No studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of this plant on stretch marks themselves. It is believed to be useful due to its silicon content. However, this is unproven.
Do you dare to try this plant? Generally, its topical application is well tolerated and does not involve risks. It may work best when combined with massage, healthy eating, plenty of water intake, and exercise.
The post Does horsetail help reduce stretch marks? first appeared on research-school