What are stretch marks...
Also known as striae are caused when the skin overstretches and tears deep fibres. This results in scar tissue which in turn shows up as discolouration and pigmented lines across the skin, whether it’s on the breasts, stomach, hips or upper thighs. This can happen during pregnancy, fluctuations in weight (gain or weight loss) and is something that many of us deal with. Though certain conditions and medications have been known to contribute to them, stretch marks are often a cosmetic concern rather than a health concern that affects both women and men of all ages and stages of life.
The Essential oil and vitamin remedy
Yes stretch marks can fade naturally over time, both carrier and essential oils can be effective in treating and minimizing their appearance, by nourishing and strengthening the skin. Studies have shown that organic oils including almond, grapeseed, lavender oil can be effective treatments due to their high content of vitamins, from A to E.
Vitamin A - when derived from animal sources is known as retinol, which stimulates the production of collagen.
Vitamin C - also known as ascorbic acid, is key to the production of collagen, a protein that aids in the growth of cells and blood vessels and gives skin its firmness and strength.
Vitamin D - the great antioxidant that nourishes cell growth. Sufficient vitamin D can boost elasticity, stimulate collagen and even reduce lines and dark spots on the skin.
Vitamin E- a natural antioxidant that protects and repairs the skin, vitamin E neutralizes the effect of free radicals and other collagen-damaging substances on the skin. It also moisturizes and revitalizes the skin, which in turn can minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
It’s no wonder then that our recommendations for natural stretch mark combaters are loaded with all of the above vitamins.
1. Organic Rosehip Oil
Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A to even out skin tone, whilst fading marks and redness, Rosehip Oil is a powerful skin regenerator, whilst also supporting the skin to maintain a healthy production of collagen to support the promotion of skin cell turnover to rebuild a healthy skin surface.
2. Topical Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant which means it can prevent oxidation and any damaging effects to the skin. This oil can provide protection due to this ability and also its anti-inflammatory properties. This will help your skin hold on to moisture by making the skin's barrier firmer and better equipped for building new and healthy skin cells.
3. Organic Unrefined Shea Butter
Organic Shea butter plays an important part of a healthy skin regime and is particularly effective for treating stretch marks. With a high concentration of fatty acids and vitamins A, E and F, it promotes the natural elasticity of the skin. Organic Shea butter can easily help improve the appearance of scars, discolouration and other skin conditions.
4. Fushi’s Really Good Stretch Mark oil
As its name suggests, our very own blend of sweet almond oil, African Baobab oil and triple strength Tulsi oil amongst others puts up a good fight against stretch marks. Mimicking the properties of omega 3, Vitamin D and E, this blend of essential oils will help restore skin elasticity, strengthen and renew damage caused by blemishes and weight gain. With regular use it will also ultimately reduce the appearance of stretch marks. African Baobab oil contains high amounts of vitamin C and is often credited for being a rich source of antioxidants. Frequently referred to as holy basil oil, Tulsi oil has powerful purifying properties known to give the skin a luminous glow.
5. DIY concoction
If find yourself in the mood for mixing, create your own stretch mark prevention oil by adding a few drops of the following organic essential oils; lavender, rosehip, geranium, jojoba oil diluted with a few drops of organic almond oil carrier oil. Lavender essential oil can work miracles in repairing damaged skin tissues, renewing skin cells, and controlling sebum which is why it makes a great skin tonic. Rosehip oil too is especially high in Vitamin A and D it can help delay the premature aging of the skin such as pigmentation. While Vitamin A is essential for cell growth and D for general skin health, it is also rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids and a source of retinoic acid, which is why it has been credited for evening out the skin tone. And finally the reigning king of versatility, jojoba oil is so deeply moisturizing and penetrative, it contains fatty acids that are essential for regeneration. Because organic essential oils cannot be used undiluted, we recommend using a few drops of organic almond oil as it is so easily absorbed and has a host of skin conditioning properties . Apply the mixture liberally twice per day to the affected areas.
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