THIS week's contributor is Michelle Vogrinec, mum of three, creator of GAIA Natural Baby, MD of GAIA Skin Natural Australia - The reality is a stretchmark is a form of scarring. During pregnancy the body is affected by changes in hormone levels and skin is stretched by the growth of the baby and in preparation for breastfeeding. When dealing with stretchmarks prevention is better than cure. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!
Skin becomes more pliable and better able to stretch when it's well hydrated.
At first, stretchmarks may show up as reddish or purplish lines that may appear indented and have a different texture from the surrounding skin. Fortunately stretchmarks often turn lighter with daily massaging with a hydrating cream or body oil.
Many natural oils, especially pure essential oils, contain moisturising essential fatty acids, skin healing and collagen regenerating minerals and enzymes, and natural antioxidants to repair damaged skin.
Look out for products containing oils such as: Rosehip, Jojoba, Wheat Germ Oil, Cocoa Butter, Aloe Vera, Shea butter and Vitamin E
Pure Essential Oils such as: Lavender, Frankincense, Mandarin/ Tangerine, Neroli and Patchouli have also been shown to aid in reducing the appearance of stretchmarks.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 11 Sep 17
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 11 Sep 17