Stretch marks are one of the most common, and least welcome additions to any pregnant and postpartum body. It’s very natural for new moms to develop stretch marks after having their baby. In fact, over 80% of pregnant women and new moms worldwide get stretch marks on their bodies. While some moms welcome them, others hope to find ways to reduce their occurrence or visibility.
What are stretch marks, really?
Stretch marks commonly develop during pregnancy and remain after giving birth. These narrow streak lines are often pink, red, purple, or brown, depending on your skin complexion. For pregnant women, stretch marks often appear in the tummy area, upper thighs, and breast area as your pregnancy advances. You may notice that they change colors as hormonal changes occur in your body.
Getting stretch marks can depend on your skin’s elasticity. Non-pregnant women and men find that they appear during weight gain, too. One of the early sign you can look for early in pregnancy is itchy skin and skin irritation.
Remedies
If you are a new mom looking for stretch marks remedies, we got you covered. We have listed various techniques and stretch mark remedies you can try:
If you’re pregnant or nursing: shea butter
We recommend: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula
$5.99 on Amazon
For pregnant and nursing mamas, natural is the way to go. Look for products that are paraben-free and made of organic materials like shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E. These nutrients will make your skin feel soft and reduce the appearance of stretch marks in many women. Remember, though, everyone is different. Continue using this kind of product after you have your baby and while you’re still nursing.
After pregnancy/nursing: retinol cream & gels
We Recommend: NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream
$15.99 on Amazon
Retinol is a subtype of retinoid, which is a derivative of Vitamin A that works by boosting and rebuilding the collagen production in your skin. However, new moms must be wary of using retinol creams or gels in their stretch marks because they are not recommended for pregnant women or women who are nursing. Stick to the natural remedies until it’s safe to use a retinol product.
A little more invasive approach: microneedling
Micro-needling is leaning more on the invasive side of stretch mark remedies. The process of micro-needling treatment involves hand-help tools with various needle sizes. The goal is to stimulate collagen production by activating the skin. According to experts, micro-needling offers less skin pigmentation for women of color.
The most expensive route: laser and light therapies
The most expensive route to stretch mark treatment is the laser and light treatment options. Both treatment options show visible results in just a few sessions. But note that they are more on the expensive side. These treatments work by stimulating collagen production or promoting better elasticity for your skin. Consult your doctor to find the best kind of laser or light treatment for your stretch marks.
Wrapping it up
There is no shame in getting the right treatment for your body, or in choosing NOT to treat your stretch marks. Stretch marks are as natural for new mothers as they are common for adolescents going through puberty. That is why there are so many options to help lighten or fade them – and even more scientific treatments will definitely come in the future.
