Stretch marks are small streaks visible on the skin's surface, initially appearing in shades of red to purple. Over time, they lighten to become white and pearlescent. Although they fade over time, they never completely disappear. Whether in men or women, they typically appear on the chest, stomach, arms, buttocks, and thighs, and can have various causes. Here's a focus on the routine to adopt for their treatment.
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Stretch Marks: What Routine Should You Adopt?
Summary
- Stretch Marks: How to Recognize Them?
- How to prevent the appearance of stretch marks?
- What routine should be adopted against stretch marks?
Published June 23, 2021,
updated on February 23, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
7 min read
Stretch Marks: How to Recognize Them?
Stretch marks appear as parallel and linear streaks resembling scars, or as thin striations. They are often due to significant skin stretching. Initially, they are purplish and gradually turn white after a few years (about 2 years). Indeed, over time, they tend to lighten. There are two types of stretch marks: those referred to as "inflammatory" or "immature" which are red or purplish, and those referred to as "mature" or "classic" which turn pearly white.
How to prevent the appearance of stretch marks?
Once established, stretch marks are difficult, if not impossible, to eliminate. This is why the best way to avoid them is through prevention. Primarily, to prevent their occurrence, it is necessary to reduce risk factors such as significant weight gain and loss, or the un-prescribed application of cortisol cream. It is also recommended to monitor your diet, and frequently perform knuckle-and-roll massages to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibers, which would have a guaranteed preventive effect. Similarly, daily hydration of the skin, particularly in high-risk areas, is important, especially during periods prone to the appearance of stretch marks, such as during pregnancy. This not only strengthens the skin's protective barrier but also promotes the action of epidermal cells contributing to skin elasticity. Moreover, the epidermis should be nourished daily to maintain its elasticity and resist potential stretching. Furthermore, limit sun exposure as it can cause dehydration that may reduce skin elasticity, weaken it, and promote the appearance of stretch marks. It is also advisable to avoid prolonged baths, as they increase the risk of stretch marks and promote skin sagging.
What routine should be adopted against stretch marks?
Stretch marks are the result of the dermis tearing due to excessive skin stretching. These skin lesions can manifest in various forms and colors. In the inflammatory stage, it is possible to slow their appearance. However, once they have healed, only a simple fading of the marks is possible. Therefore, to avoid the discomfort and aesthetic inconvenience caused by stretch marks, it is preferable to prevent them. It is then appropriate to opt for a range of care aimed at nourishing, hydrating, and stimulating cellular renewal.
To prevent or even reduce stretch marks, and to enhance the skin's flexibility and elasticity, you can adopt the following routine:
The stretch mark gel-to-oil with baobab oil:
This treatment helps to reduce the appearance of skin marks and makes the skin supple and elastic. It is composed ofBaobab oil which is healing (INCI name: "Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil"), Maracuja oil (INCI name: "Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil") which is regenerating, and nourishing Shea Olein (INCI name: "Butyrospermum Parkii Oil"). Under the effect of massage, it transforms into an oil that quickly penetrates the skin without leaving a greasy finish. The stretch mark treatment is recommended for the prevention of all types of stretch marks, whether they are related to weight gain or loss, skin tissue stretching, or hormonal changes. Simply apply it to clean, dry skin, focusing on the affected areas. Massage slowly until the gel is absorbed. It should be applied 1 to 2 times per day. Additionally, it is suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
The invigorating body scrub with green coffee macerate:
This exfoliating treatment is suitable for all skin types. It helps to remove dead cells and deeply embedded impurities from the skin surface for better penetration of the active ingredients in the stretch mark gel and also to enhance the skin's regenerative capacity. Moreover, it helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Thanks to its rich and fluid texture, the toning body scrub helps to nourish, firm, drain, tone, and soothe the skin. It contains numerous active ingredients, such as the green coffee macerate (INCI name: "Coffea Arabica Seed Extract"), the Javanese lemongrass essential oil (INCI name: "Cymbopogon Winterianus Herb Oil"), the Atlas cedar essential oil (INCI name: "Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil") and the apricot kernel powder (INCI name: "Prunus Armeniaca Seed Powder"). It should be applied 1 to 2 times a week for best effects.
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