Oil for stretch marks during pregnancy: reviews, how to apply it

Every woman has encountered such a problem as stretch marks at least once during her life. These are small, winding lightning-like scars that appear during hormonal changes in the body. In a woman’s life, such a restructuring necessarily occurs at least twice – during adolescence and during pregnancy. Unfortunately, it is only possible to completely get rid of stretch marks through surgery, but no one is stopping you from using stretch mark oils at home in different combinations to prevent the appearance of new stretch marks and make existing ones less noticeable.

Does pregnancy oil help with stretch marks?

One of the main reasons that causes 85% of pregnant women to experience stretch marks is severe stretching of the skin due to weight gain or enlargement of certain body parts. For example, for many women, breast volume increases from the very beginning of pregnancy, and the stomach begins to grow in the second trimester. Most often, it is in these two parts of the body that cells do not have time to mature and divide at the required speed. Therefore, the skin receives microtraumas to individual fibers of the connective tissue and cicatricial skin changes occur, which are called stretch marks. They come in several types:

• longitudinal scar-like stripes of blue-burgundy color;
• small pink scars;
• thread-like white stripes.

Important! During sudden weight gain and loss, the stretch marks are positioned vertically. If the reason lies in hormonal disorders, the location of the stretch marks is horizontal.

Oils of plant origin are widely used in cosmetology for the prevention and elimination of stretch marks in pregnant women, since most of these products have no contraindications. At the same time, they contain a large amount of vitamins and microelements, which are so necessary to maintain the elasticity and firmness of the skin during pregnancy. Any base oil can be used as a stand-alone product or added to other cosmetic products intended for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks during pregnancy.

Beneficial properties of oils against stretch marks during pregnancy

The value of vegetable oils is determined by their composition, the amount of valuable elements, and the method of production. The most useful oil products are those obtained by cold pressing. For this procedure, various parts of plants are used: seeds, leaves, roots, fruits, flowers. This method preserves the maximum amount of nutrients that can have the most positive effect on stretch marks during pregnancy. For this reason, vegetable oils are widely used in the industrial production of cosmetics, as well as for preparing cosmetics at home.

Here are their main advantages:

1. The absence of various additives in the form of dyes, preservatives, flavors or their minimal amount, which does not in any way affect the quality of the product.
2. Can be used separately or in combination with each other or combined with other types of cosmetics. It is also important to use basic products in various variations: masks, compresses, creams, ointments, balms, wraps.
3. Almost all oil products are rich in vitamins, the most valuable for improving skin condition. Among them are antioxidant vitamins - A, D, E, K, B1, B2.
4. Among other biologically active components included in the composition, phospholipids, plant sterols, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids are of particular value. They are necessary to normalize metabolism, blood circulation, cell regeneration, renewal and nutrition.
5. The structure of oils is similar to sebum, so they easily penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the body.
6. Regular use of natural herbal composition for stretch marks will help the skin not only to establish collagen formation, but also to strengthen the skin framework and prevent further appearance of stretch marks.
7. Oils protect the skin from the negative effects of the environment, especially in conditions of environmental pollution. They also normalize metabolic processes and the functioning of the sebaceous glands.

If you promptly address the problem of eliminating stretch marks with the help of natural herbal remedies, then dealing with it will be much easier. Over time, stretch marks will become barely visible on the skin.

Therapeutic oil baths

If the areas affected by stretch marks are very large, healing baths can help.

To do this, take 60 g of bath salts, add 2 drops of neroli and lavender oils and 1 tbsp. l. wheat germ oils. The temperature of the water in the bath should be moderate and pleasant, and the duration of the procedure itself should not exceed 15 minutes.

What oils help with stretch marks during pregnancy?

There are several types of natural oils that differ in properties and processing methods.

Natural vegetable oils

Basic vegetable oils are obtained mainly from the fruit part of plant materials. For this purpose, fruit pulp, seeds, nuts, seeds and seed germs can be used. They do not have a pronounced odor and can be used in unlimited quantities.

Coconut oil is obtained from coconut meat by hot or cold pressing. For cosmetic procedures, the cold pressing method is most in demand, since this preserves the maximum amount of valuable substances. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, an element that has bactericidal, antimicrobial, and pronounced antiseptic properties. When used externally, the product accelerates skin healing, so it is especially useful for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks during pregnancy.

Olive oil is one of the best cosmetic remedies for stretch marks during pregnancy. Of particular value is the vitamin E included in its composition, which has regenerating and antioxidant properties. The product protects the skin from oxidation, promotes hydration, nutrition and smoothness. It also stimulates the production of collagen, an element responsible for skin elasticity.

Argan oil is a plant product obtained from the argan fruit. It is rich in essential fatty acids, tocopherols, carotene, squalene, and high molecular weight proteins. All these elements play a huge role in the regenerating and healing properties of the oil. When applied to the skin, the product does not tighten the skin and does not cause a greasy film effect. At the same time, one of the main qualities is the lifting effect.

Almond oil is obtained from the sweet almond fruit by cold pressing or liquid extraction. The concentrated product is rich in vitamins, minerals, organic acids, polyunsaturated fats, and phytosterols. For medicinal purposes, the product is used in the treatment of burns, diaper rash, prickly heat, bedsores, and herpes. Such healing properties make it possible to use it for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Sea buckthorn oil is obtained by liquid extraction of sea buckthorn seeds. It is rich in vitamin K, sterols, phospholipids, as well as acids - oleic, linoleic, stearic, palmitic. The oil is an effective remedy in the treatment of various skin diseases - eczema, burns, cervical erosion. It has a wound-healing effect, especially in cases of skin damage accompanied by a lack of vitamins and valuable microelements in the body. Such problems include stretch marks that occur during pregnancy.

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the nuts of the evergreen Simmondsia plant. For cosmetic purposes, it is extracted by cold pressing. The product contains amino acids whose composition is most similar to collagen. It helps improve skin elasticity and firmness, balance sebum production, and provide skin hydration throughout the day.

Today, basic vegetable oils can be purchased at any pharmacy or specialty store. Many women create special mixtures for massage against stretch marks by combining various cosmetic products.

Essential oils

Unlike base products, essential oils are more concentrated cosmetic products. They are obtained from stems, leaves, flowers, tree bark, and other parts of plants that have a pronounced aroma.

Important! Esters have a common feature: they are poorly soluble in water and at the same time soluble in other vegetable oils.

• Orange oil, among other citrus fruits, contains the highest ratio of organic acids, which most effectively improve blood circulation, reduce stretch marks, and make the skin smoother. Orange extract can also be used for other purposes, for example, as aromatherapy for depression, headaches, and colds.
• Juniper oil is obtained from the ripe berries of the plant of the same name. The product contains valuable organic acids, microelements aluminum, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper. It promotes wound healing, activates lymph flow in areas of fat stagnation, perfectly tones and smoothes the skin with stretch marks.
• Lavender oil has long been valued for its healing, anesthetic, and soothing properties. In cosmetology, it is used to solve problems with damaged skin, for example, with purulent wounds, acne, fungal diseases, various dislocations and bruises. When applied to the skin, it increases blood circulation, relieves swelling, eliminates itching and flaking.
• Rose oil is valued for its effective properties in caring for skin that has lost firmness and elasticity. With regular use, you can improve the skin of your face and body, reduce the size and number of stretch marks, and also have a preventive effect on skin prone to stretch marks during pregnancy. Rose extract is also recommended for use in the presence of other scars and scars.
• Rosemary oil is a top note oil, meaning it quickly evaporates from the surface of the skin and has an immediate, pronounced effect on the nervous system. The oil stimulates blood circulation and metabolic processes in the body, relieves pain, tones, and disinfects the skin. Within a few weeks after use, you will notice that the skin has become softer and velvety, and stretch marks are less noticeable.

The concentration of all essential oils without exception is quite high, so they have a pronounced aroma and effect.

Important! Esters cannot be applied to the skin in their pure form during pregnancy, as they can cause burns or irritation.

Cosmetic oils

Among pharmaceutical products you can find a wide range of oils based on natural ingredients, which are intended specifically for women during pregnancy, since the skin during this period needs special care.

• Weleda stretch mark oil is suitable for sensitive, dry and allergy-prone skin during pregnancy. The composition includes almond oil, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, and arnica flower extract. Together, these components have a noticeable effect when used regularly throughout pregnancy, as well as after childbirth.
• Mustela body oil (9 months) is made on the basis of avocado, sunflower, cocoa and pomegranate seed oils, vitamin E. The product does not leave marks on clothes, is well absorbed, and has a neutral smell. Its main purpose is the prevention and treatment of stretch marks at the initial stage. An additional bonus is a convenient bottle with a spray, which allows you to use the oil product more economically.
• Bio-Oil oil for stretch marks is a cosmetic product for expert skin care. It helps reduce the appearance of new and old scars, reduces the likelihood of new stretch marks appearing during pregnancy, helps even out skin tone and fights age-related changes. The safety of the oil has been proven by numerous clinical studies.
• Bella Mama Oil from the Israeli brand Baby Teva stops the process of stretch marks appearing during pregnancy and after childbirth, and is also suitable for sudden changes in height, weight, and during intense physical activity. The cosmetic product contains lemon, tangerine, grape seed, rose and petitgrain oils. The effectiveness of the product during pregnancy increases if it is applied after water procedures with light massaging movements.

When using cosmetic oils against stretch marks during pregnancy, you should remember that only regularity of procedures will produce the desired effect and ensure smooth and elastic skin in the future.

Which body oil for stretch marks during pregnancy is best to choose?

The choice of cosmetics for stretch marks during pregnancy should be approached as responsibly as when taking medications. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the following points:

1. Compound. It should be studied first. Vegetable, essential or special cosmetic oils should contain only natural ingredients. The presence of an additional complex of vitamins and minerals is allowed. If a woman purchases a cosmetic product in its pure form, she should choose an oil obtained by cold pressing (base) or steam distillation (essential).
2. Possibility of using oil during pregnancy. First of all, you should remember that using ethers in their pure form is prohibited, as they can provoke anaphylactic shock or miscarriage. It is allowed to use esters only as an additive to cosmetic products intended to prevent or combat stretch marks during pregnancy
3. Price. Many women are stopped by the cost of the product. Since the method of obtaining oil is quite expensive, that’s why many natural remedies are quite expensive. But, as many reviews show, purchasing expensive natural oils is worth it. When used regularly, they effectively act as preventatives and also reduce the number and size of stretch marks during pregnancy.

Numerous reviews, as well as a dermatologist or cosmetologist, will help you choose the right oil against stretch marks during pregnancy and use it correctly at home. If your skin is not sensitive and not prone to allergies, you can purchase any oil you like at the beginning of pregnancy and actively use it as a massage product, as well as as an additive for cream or other basic cosmetic oil.

Causes of stretch marks

There are several reasons why expectant mothers develop stretch marks. These include.

1. Genetic predisposition causing the problem.
2. A change in the ratio of hormones after conception, which causes increased levels of progesterone and estrogen in the blood. Hormonal changes cause increased sensitivity of the epidermis to various influences.
3. Mothers do not actively produce collagen and elastin, and these substances are responsible for the ability of the skin to stretch. Therefore, during pregnancy, girls have to use olive oil for the hated stretch marks.
4. Often the tension process occurs very quickly, the skin simply does not have time to react to it.
5. Even the most elastic skin has a stretch limit. Therefore, in areas where it is especially strong, ruptures usually appear.

During pregnancy, the skin needs to be treated with care. There are many remedies for stretch marks: olive oil, coconut oil, Weleda products, etc. But the most important thing is regular use. One time won't do any good. Also find out whether it is dangerous for pregnant women to fly and at what month you can find out the sex of the child.

How to properly use oils for stretch marks during pregnancy

Although oils are of natural origin, there are certain rules that must be followed:

1. Before purchasing, you should study the instructions and become familiar with the indications and contraindications.
2. Since the period of bearing a child may have more contraindications than usual, it is advisable to consult your doctor or cosmetologist about the use of oil.
3. It is best to apply the product after water procedures, when the pores are open and more actively absorb the product.
4. Rub with light massaging movements directly onto the areas of stretch marks or where they are expected to appear.
5. Esters cannot be applied in their pure form. They can be added in small quantities in accordance with the mask recipe or manufacturer's recommendations.

It is better to start using oil before pregnancy or from the very first days. This way you can prevent or stop the process of stretch marks appearing at the earliest stages during pregnancy.

Contraindications for use

When choosing a base vegetable oil, you should always focus on the characteristics of your skin. If she is prone to oiliness and acne, you should avoid oil-based cosmetic products with a high percentage of natural fat. These products include coconut, peach, flaxseed and cocoa butter. Basic oil products have no contraindications for use and are always safe when applied to the skin. To avoid side effects, you should pay attention to the production time, smell and consistency.

The main contraindication for the use of essential oils is individual intolerance. Therapeutic and preventive measures for pregnant women can only be prescribed by a specialist, having assessed all possible risks. All warnings are associated with the presence of ketones and phenols in most essential oil products. When used uncontrolled, these substances negatively affect the gestating fetus, nervous system, liver and kidneys.

What is prohibited

An important condition when choosing any oil product is the acceptability and safety of its use during pregnancy. The product used should not cause allergic reactions. Some oil extracts (for example, argan) can only be used from the second gestational trimester. Artificial drugs with chemical additives can have a negative effect on the pregnant woman and the fetus, so such products should be avoided. And some natural remedies can provoke bleeding or increased uterine tone, even interruption of gestation.

That is why pregnant women are contraindicated from using such oil extracts, extracts and squeezes based on plants such as juniper and cedar, oregano and cinnamon, thyme and nutmeg, ginger and mint, wormwood or parsley. Thyme and rosemary, basil and sage, chamomile or fennel are also contraindicated. But even among the permitted products there are those that can cause a reaction of individual intolerance or hypersensitivity of an allergic nature. Therefore, you should first conduct a sensitivity test and consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist.