Stretch marks can affect our self esteem and how we feel in our skin. While they can be difficult to eliminate completely, there are many tried-and-true methods to reduce their appearance. Read on, and we’ll tell you what they are, why they appear, and how to slow them down.
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are visible marks on the skin which appear as fine lines. They are typically a different colour to your skin tone.
What causes stretch marks?
These stretch marks typically appear when the skin has to expand quickly. The causes of stretch marks include puberty, pregnancy, weight gain or even an increase in muscle mass. They occur when the collagen and elastin fibres, found in the middle layer of the skin or dermis, break.
When the skin stretches quickly and these fibres can't keep up, small injuries form on the dermis which gives the appearance of stretch marks.
What types of stretch marks are there?
There are two main kinds: red stretch marks and white stretch marks.
New "fresh" stretch marks are typically red or purple. This is due to inflammation. Over time, these colours fade towards lighter shades and white.
Beyond the colour, we can define stretch marks in other ways. Striae gravidarum are the marks which occur during pregnancy, and it is also common for stretch marks to appear during puberty or weight fluctuations.
Here are 4 tips to get rid of stretch marks!
1. Use a moisturising cream every day
Skin hydration is essential when it comes to maintaining skin softness and flexibility, which can, in turn, help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Hydrated skin is less likely to develop stretch marks and is better able to repair itself, naturally.
bodyshock® essential cream
Make sure your moisturising cream is high quality and specifically formulated for use on stretch marks, such as our bodyshock® essential cream. This cream for the body combines plant extracts which work to hydrate your skin and support its regeneration, helping to visibly slow down the appearance of stretch marks and prevent new ones from forming. Liposomal oils and shea butter contain antioxidants and nourish your skin, maximising the efficiency of the ingredients.
2. Drink lots of water
While topical products can hydrate your skin, we cannot overstate the importance of hydration from within. Drinking enough water is key to keeping your skin hydrated and supports its regeneration.
3. Don't forget to exfoliate your skin
Exfoliating is another powerful tool in the reduction and prevention of stretch marks. Exfoliating your skin regularly removes dead skin cells from the surface and stimulates its cellular regeneration. This, in turn, helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Choose a gentle exfoliator and apply it in circular motions to massage the affected areas. We recommend exfoliating once or twice each week.
Use a soft bristle brush in circular motions on damp skin to stimulate blood flow and improve the skin's regeneration. This method can help to improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.
4. Professional treatments for your stretch marks
If you're looking for a professional stretch mark treatment, we recommend that you consult a medical aesthetician. Some of the treatments that work for stretch marks removal include:
- Topical body treatments with actives which are specifically designed for the treatment of stretch marks. bodyshock® is a protocol which is 100% customised and uses formulas which act in synergy for the best results against stretch marks. This treatment blends 10 in-centre sessions with daily actions, adapted to each individual and their needs, to carry out in the comfort of your own home. This achieves maximum results.
Before and after results with bodyshock®: reduction of stretch marks
Before
- Laser: Laser treatments, such as fractional co² laser treatments, work to stimulate collagen production and can significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks.
- Microdermoabrasion is a non-invasive procedure which exfoliates the superficial upper skin layer, helping to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It is less agressive than stretch mark laser removal so it's a great option for most people.
Contact our professionals and let the experts guide you.
In summary, you may feel insecure about your stretch marks and their appearance, but there are many methods available to reduce their visibility.
Consistency is key when it comes to stretch marks and it can take time for their appearance to improve. So be patient, and follow our tips to take good care of your skin.
Always consult a healthcare professional who can offer personalised advice.
