Achieving Radiant Skin: Post-Vacuum Bell Treatment Skincare Guide
Vacuum bell treatment is an effective method for treating chest wall abnormalities like pectus excavatum. However, the only known side effect is skin irritation. Therefore, skincare during the treatment process is important, and patient experiences and expert recommendations are crucial. Here is comprehensive information on post-vacuum bell treatment skincare:
Skin Sensitivity and Warning Signs
The application duration and pressure of the vacuum bell device may vary depending on an individual's skin type. While some patients may not experience any effects, others may develop symptoms such as redness, blisters, bruising, skin irritation, or itching depending on their skin structure. If skin irritations occur, especially in the early stages of treatment, adjustments to the treatment or a temporary break may be necessary. Skin irritations are more common at the beginning of treatment and tend to heal over time. Therefore, some patience may be required. However, there are also ways to expedite the skin healing process, which I've outlined below.
Skincare Recommendations
Post-vacuum bell treatment skincare is crucial for maintaining skin health and supporting healing. Here are some skincare recommendations:
Moisturization: Dryness of the skin due to the vacuum effect is a significant issue in non-surgical pectus excavatum treatment. Moisturizing damaged skin is essential. To prevent post-treatment skin dryness, use moisturizer regularly. Repeat this after each application.
High-Quality Oils: Using products with high-quality oils derived from nature can be highly beneficial for your skin. Alternating between nourishing products like almond oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, emu oil, and Aloe Vera Extract can be beneficial.
Astaxanthin: Astaxanthin not only provides various benefits but also protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Therefore, taking supplements containing astaxanthin daily can support your skincare routine.
Zinc Ointment or Cream: Zinc is an excellent nutrient for the skin and serves as a protective barrier for mild skin irritations.
Collagen: Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body and is responsible for the structure, strength, and elasticity of the skin. Increasing collagen intake can support proper skin repair. While adult daily collagen intake is recommended at 10g, a minimum daily dose of 2.5g is suggested.
However, be cautious with fish collagen supplements as they may lead to heavy metal intake. Therefore, beef collagen is preferred. Additionally, consuming parts of meat close to the bone provides ample collagen (such as bone broth, bone marrow, bone-in meat consumption, etc.).
Sun Protection: The skin may become more sensitive to the sun after treatment. Therefore, it's essential to protect the treated area from the sun by using sunscreen or protective clothing.
Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins is important for supporting skin health and the healing process.
Patient Experiences and Recommendations
Patient experiences and recommendations from those who have undergone vacuum bell treatment can provide additional insights into post-treatment skincare. Some patients have mentioned the necessity of shaving chest hair as it can interfere with the vacuum bell seal and cause skin irritation. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of regular skincare.
Expert Recommendations
Dr. Hasan Ersöz offers the following recommendations for post-vacuum bell treatment skincare:
Avoid starting vacuum bell treatment directly for an extended period. I recommend starting with a routine application of 2x20 minutes daily and gradually increasing the duration.
If blisters form, taking a break from vacuuming for a few days and refraining from popping them during this period is best.
Itching may occur during vacuum application on hot summer days. Massaging the itchy area lightly with a towel soaked in warm water before vacuuming, then drying the skin thoroughly with a dry towel, and finally applying a hairdryer to completely dry the skin can help. Massage stimulates blood flow to the nerve endings causing itching, thus stopping skin irritation.
Consistently follow your skincare routine and monitor your skin condition. If you notice any changes or issues, contact your treatment provider.