How to treat postpartum stretch marks?

Stretch marks, which start to form during pregnancy and become evident after childbirth, are common problems for most women. The enlarged abdomen and sudden weight gain during pregnancy cause the skin to stretch and result in its tearing. These tears initially appear in a pink or purplish shade, then turn reddish, and eventually may become white in color.

When stretch marks are treated while they are still pink, purple, or red, significant improvement can be observed. However, if left untreated for a longer period and their color turns white, the applied treatments have little positive effect. Unfortunately, dealing with stretch marks in skincare is one of those problems that becomes quite challenging once they're deeply entrenched.

Why do stretch marks occur after childbirth?

Stretch marks, commonly known as postpartum stretch marks, actually begin to manifest during pregnancy but can also appear with sudden weight loss or weight gain. During this period, the skin surface stretches, particularly due to sudden weight gain around the abdominal area. The collagen fibers in the stretched skin break, causing the appearance of these cracks on the skin. This situation can arise due to sudden weight gain or loss outside of pregnancy.

Where do stretch marks appear intensely?

Stretch marks most commonly appear on the abdomen but can also be observed on the hips, back, thighs, and breasts.

Are postpartum stretch marks permanent?

Postpartum stretch marks tend to persist in most women. If treated when they are initially forming and before turning white, significant improvement can be observed. However, if left untreated for a longer period and they turn white, they are very difficult to eliminate completely, and the treatments only reduce the appearance of the cracks.

Stretch marks occur in almost every body type, depending on genetic factors. However, they are more frequent in dry and dehydrated skin types, leading to more intense crack formations.

How can stretch marks be prevented?

While it's not possible to completely prevent them, steps can be taken to reduce their formation and quickly treat them once they appear. Proper skin care is necessary to avoid their occurrence:

Using body lotions containing vitamins A and E, specifically designed for pregnancy-related stretch marks, as well as moisturizers for pregnant skin.

Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can cause cracks both during this process and in the postpartum weight loss phase. Hence, avoiding unnecessary weight gain is essential.

Substances damaging the skin structure, such as cigarette use, increase the formation of cracks. Therefore, avoiding cigarette consumption during pregnancy and focusing on healthy nutrition and a vitamin-rich lifestyle are essential.

Increased water intake boosts skin moisture and elasticity. Consuming plenty of water contributes to maintaining proper skin condition and hydration.

Exercise enhances collagen production and speeds up blood circulation. Faster blood circulation allows certain minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus, necessary for the skin, to be absorbed more quickly. Pregnancy-appropriate exercises, walking, and swimming are recommended for these positive effects.

Cracks are more common in dry skin. Therefore, applying intensively moisturizing cream or oils after every shower can maximize hydration.

Vitamins and minerals found in natural oils protect and restore skin structure and prevent the formation of cracks.

Irregular eating habits lead to rapid and unhealthy weight gain and increase the appearance of stretch marks. Hence, balanced and regular nutrition is important.

When is it advisable to use stretch mark prevention creams?

Experiencing weight gain is not uncommon in the early stages of pregnancy. However, sudden weight gain may occur in subsequent periods, and taking precautions early on minimizes the formation of cracks. Therefore, it is recommended to use moisturizing cream or oil regularly until the 20th week. After the 20th week, it is advisable to pay more attention to the development of stretch marks. Thus, the strained skin is soothed, moisturized, and the occurrence of cracks is minimized, although unfortunately, some individuals have thinner skin and are prone to cracking. In these cases, it becomes very difficult to prevent their development.

Which plant-based oils are good for stretch marks?

Natural oils are used against postpartum stretch marks. These oils prevent the formation of cracks and reduce the appearance of existing ones. Good oils for postpartum stretch marks include:

1. Argan oil
2. Almond oil
3. Olive oil
4. Black seed oil
5. St. John's Wort oil
6. Melissa oil
7. Apricot oil
8. Sesame oil

These oils can be used in cures on their own or mixed with other oils. With regular use, the formation of cracks is minimized, and their appearance diminishes.