How to Reduce the Appearance of Stretchmarks

Stretchmarks affect many people, and although they are harmless, they can be a cause for cosmetic concern. When the skin stretches, the supporting tissues can be damaged. This, in turn, can lead to the development of stretchmarks, which often present as thin, red or purple lines. The good news is that stretchmarks often fade with time, and there are certain ingredients that can speed up this fading process and minimise their appearance.

Stay hydrated

One of the best things you can do for your skin is to keep it hydrated. When the skin retains moisture, the appearance of stretchmarks is more likely to fade over time. Some hydrating ingredients include cocoa butter, shea butter, argan oil and coconut oil. Choose a body lotion that contains these ingredients and apply generously once or twice a day, ideally after a bath or shower.
 
Try: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Cream for Stretch Marks and Dawn Stretch Marks Repair Body Cream with Vitamin E and Argan Oil.

Exfoliate often


You may find it helpful to add regular exfoliation to your routine. By scrubbing your skin and removing dead skin cells, you’ll boost your blood circulation and reduce the appearance of stretchmarks. You can use a homemade sugar scrub for this, or go for a store-bought scrub that contains other beneficial ingredients. Scrub your skin for a few minutes between one and three times every week.
 
Try: Sorbet Rejuvenating Body Scrub 

Choose nourishing ingredients 


Certain ingredients can enhance the condition of the skin, making it appear smoother and more youthful. When used in skincare, vitamin A is known as a retinoid. Retinoids have many uses, and are popular for their ability to reduce some of the visible signs of ageing. Studies suggest that vitamin A may be helpful in making stretchmarks appear less noticeable. The ingredient also boosts skin elasticity, improving overall texture. 

Aloe vera is another naturally nourishing ingredient. The plant’s leaves store water, as well as plenty of nutrients, which aid the healing process, repair damaged skin and help to fade scars and stretchmarks. The ingredient is most often found in gels, which can be applied directly to the skin. 



Try: Dermastine Body Lotion with Vitamin A; Happy Event Antenatal Soap, which contains vitamins A and E; and Clicks Aloe Vera Skin Gel. 

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