One of the many things that women's bodies have to go through, especially when they are pregnant is the appearance of stretch marks. Stretch marks are a type of scar developed when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The rapid change causes the collagen and elastin (the proteins that maintain both elasticity and firmness) to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks appear. They usually aren't a sign that anything is wrong with your health.
Anyone can get stretch marks, there is no gender-specific. If you develop stretch marks, you're most likely to get them during these times:
- Growth spurt during puberty
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Weight training with rapid muscle growth
When the stretch marks first appear, they seem to be in red, purple, pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown, depending on your skin colour. They may also feel slightly raised and can be itchy.
Over time, the colour fades and become less visible. Faded stretch marks normally seem lighter in colour than the skin around them and a tad bit shiny, like a scar.
And just like scars, stretch marks are here to stay. BUT, fret not! There are remedies to make them less noticeable. They come in different types - oils, creams, and butters.
1. Earth Mama Belly Oil
Earth Mama’s Belly Oil consists of a luxe blend of organic calendula, organic jojoba oil, organic borage oil and orange blossom pure essential oil that help moisturize and comfort your beautifully growing (and often uncomfortable) belly — along with your hips, breasts and thighs. The formula is lightweight and easily absorbable, so you won't feel sticky. It also helps nourish and encourage skin's natural elasticity and the natural, delicate scent won't irk occasional morning sickness. It’s moisturizing for after shower or bath, and great news – you can use it even you’re not pregnant!
2. Mustela Maternite Stretch Marks Cream
This Mustela Maternity Stretch Marks Cream is a cream with 3 in 1 action that allows acting against the stretch marks that appear during pregnancy. Its unique formula contains 96% of natural ingredients of shea butter, avocado oil, glycerin, cocoa, jojoba, maracuja polyphenols, and hamamelis extracts. It moisturises durably, reinforces the elasticity of the skin and soothes the sensation of itching. Applying the cream in the morning and evening on the belly, hips, thighs, and breasts and feel your skin supple and soft!
3. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Tummy Butter for Stretch Marks
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Tummy Butter helps visibly improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Pure cocoa butter and shea butter, natural oils such as argan and almond oils, collagen, elastin, and lutein keep skin moisturized and supple for 48 hours allowing the skin to stretch more easily. It is widely recommended for stretch marks during and after pregnancy and also weight fluctuation. It is also suitable for sensitive skin.
While there are many anti-stretch marks remedies in the market, it is important to note that no one product works for everyone. And if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do consult with your doctor before using any stretch marks products. Some products may contain retinol that is harmful to your baby. Do check the label!
If you want to try one of these products, be sure to:
- use the product on early stretch marks
- massage the product into your stretch marks
- apply the product every day for weeks
Click here for our range of anti-stretch mark products!
