When should you start using stretch mark creams and oils?

Would you like to avoid stretch marks appearing on your bump, thighs, bottom, upper arms, hips, or breasts during pregnancy? It’s great that you’re already curious about the topic, because when it comes to stretch marks, prevention is always the best mindset. If they do appear, you can still fade them nicely over time - though they may never disappear completely.

If you’ve already noticed marks that look quite prominent - reddish and thicker - try not to worry. There’s still plenty you can do, and don’t forget that stretch marks typically fade to pale, finer lines later on, so they’ll become far less noticeable than they are now.

A woman’s body goes through countless changes during pregnancy, often reshaping the way we used to look. It’s important to know that after birth your body needs months to gently return towards its original state, so be patient and kind to yourself.

Your skin is transforming too; its structure changes as it prepares for pregnancy and birth. There are several symptoms you might notice - this article focuses on stretch marks.

Let’s not mix up stretch marks (striae) with cellulite. They look quite different, though both can appear on similar areas of the body during weight gain, hormonal changes, and pregnancy.

Cellulite is the bulging of fat cells, which creates dimples and a bumpy skin surface, while stretch marks are reddish or pearly-white lines on the skin. Cellulite can sometimes be cleared relatively quickly - for example, with targeted exercise - whereas stretch marks tend to remain to some extent.

Why do stretch marks appear?

Stretch marks form in a deeper layer of the skin (the dermis). Much like parched earth cracking after a long dry spell, skin can also crack when it’s overstretched. During growth spurts or weight gain, collagen fibres would need to expand very quickly; if they can’t keep up, the connective tissue tears.

These micro-tears show up as thin, elongated lines that run perpendicular to the direction of skin tension. At first, due to the blood vessels, they appear reddish, purplish or pink, then later turn pearly white. They don’t vanish on their own, not even with sunbathing. Even so, you can help them fade, and—better still—try to prevent them. Pregnancy is the time when prevention is most realistic: you can expect stretch marks on the tummy, hips, thighs and breasts, so it’s worth preparing your skin for stretching in good time.

When and in whom can stretch marks develop?

We most commonly think of them during pregnancy, and many of us will experience them then. However, they can appear with any weight gain, especially in women, as our connective tissues are looser. Men can get them too, though they’re usually less bothered by the lines.

Triggers can include:

• Pregnancy-related weight gain, especially in the 2nd–3rd trimesters

• Rapid weight gain or loss

• Adolescent growth spurts

• Increased muscle mass during bodybuilding

• Hormonal factors

• Connective tissue weakness

• Genetic factors

• Certain health conditions

A key question is whether stretch marks cause health problems. The good news is they are purely aesthetic. In some cases, though, they may be associated with underlying imbalances, for example hormonal changes.

Is prevention possible?

With stretch marks, the most common and sensible advice is to focus on prevention rather than only treating lines after they appear, if you have the chance to do so. In pregnancy, this is most feasible, because from the very start you’ve got time. The lines tend to form during more pronounced weight gain in the second and third trimesters. If you can keep skin supple, hydrated and nourished by then, you’ve done the best you can to prevent them.

Do you know the at-home options for stretch marks?

Use quality products at the right time!

From the beginning of pregnancy, care for your skin with a cream or oil that enhances elasticity. Be selective when choosing a product and read the ingredients carefully. Aim for the most natural formulations possible, natural oils and stretch-mark creams designed specifically for mums-to-be are ideal.

One of the most effective natural oils for preventing pregnancy stretch marks is unrefined, 100% almond oil. Most mums choose this classic, natural option for their bump.

Gentle care with this rich blend soothes inflammation, supports regeneration, hydrates, and boosts skin elasticity. Virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil absorbs quickly, is rich in fatty acids, hydrates beautifully, and helps prevent dryness and stretch marks.

Have you heard of rosehip oil? This excellent skin-care oil doesn’t leave a greasy feel, supports collagen and elastin production, improves skin texture, and helps fade stretch marks. You might also love shea butter, one of the most nourishing options; it regenerates, and blends well with other oils, such as almond oil. Grape seed oil is likewise a top natural choice.

If you’re not planning a baby, then avoiding rapid weight fluctuations is the most reliable way to steer clear of stretch marks. This is best supported by a conscious lifestyle: balanced nutrition, movement, and the use of quality oils.

Alongside the natural oils and creams listed above, there are countless other products you can use at home. For best results, apply oil after bathing or showering to still-damp skin, and massage in gently with circular motions. You can use them on their own or blended together—they can enhance each other’s effects for improved results. You’ll see how comforting it feels to pamper a tight or occasionally itchy bump with these wonderful helpers!

You can opt for professional treatments too

Creams and oils usually won’t erase stretch marks completely, but they can fade them effectively. If you’d like to go a step further and aim for even better results, consult a dermatologist or aesthetician about the treatments available today. Options include aromatherapy body wrapping, laser treatments, mesotherapy, and several other modern, well-established methods. They’re unlikely to be 100% effective either, but they can significantly improve the skin’s appearance.

Pregnancy leaves lasting changes on every mother’s body - reminders that we welcomed the most wonderful little being, carried them within, and kept them safe.

“The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. The true beauty of a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows.”
Audrey Hepburn

Sources:

NHS – Stretch marks. Page last reviewed: 30 April 2024.

American Academy of Dermatology – Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them.