SingaporeMotherhood | Lifestyle
December 2021
9 Must-haves to Reduce Stretch Marks while Soothing and Pampering your Pregnant Belly
Up to 90 per cent of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, and while we’re proud of our “tiger stripes” and “stretchies” (thank you, Chrissy Teigen) we don’t need them to dominate every pregnancy and skin conversation we have. Furthermore, there are women who feel uncomfortable about theirs and would prefer these to be gone, or reduced. No judgement; we’re good with that too. That’s why we’ve found these stretch marks treatments that can help keep your belly skin pampered and soothed as you stretch and grow to accommodate your little one. P/S: these work for anyone who has stretch marks, not just pregnant or previously pregnant women.
(See also: Pregnant? Use this Pregnancy Checklist to Plan for the next 9 months)
1. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural)
Someone you know has probably used (and is still using) the original version of this — their hero product, the Skincare Oil, ““the world’s leading scar and stretch mark product” — which has been a staple for mums and pregnant women for over 30 years. This new Skincare Oil (Natural) brings even more to the table, with a 100% natural formulation that is clinically proven to help improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. It’s also highly effective for uneven skin tone, ageing and dehydrated skin, so you can use it for life! What’s more, its safe for all skin types, and for including lactating women, as well as children above three years of age.
$20.50 at Shopee
2. & 3. Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil
An oldie but a goodie, this firming body oil has been one of Clarins’ best-sellers for pregnant women since 1965. It uses 100% pure plant extracts including rosemary, geranium and mint to help firm, tone and improve elasticity, while hazelnut oil locks in moisture and keeps skin satin-smooth. Clarins also has a Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert but the Tonic Body Treatment Oil remains a top favourite of many mums and mums-to-be. It also smells divine, by the way!
$95 at Clarins.
(See also: Hands-free Breast Pumps for every Breastfeeding Mum)
4. Earth Mama Organics Belly Oil
Light and easily absorbed, this cruelty-free Belly Oil uses a proprietary blend of herb-infused oils like organic calendula, organic jojoba oil, organic borage oil and orange blossom pure essential oil to soften expanding skin and encourage elasticity. Massage generously to moisturise your growing skin after a shower or a bath on your belly, hips, thighs, and breasts (yes, it’s okay to do that!).
$31.90 at Storkbaby.
5. & 6. Evereden Mama Must-Have Duo
Luxurious and nourishing, this winning duo works together to help prevent and reduce stretch marks throughout pregnancy and beyond. Use the Nourishing Stretch Mark Cream first, then follow up with the Gold Belly Serum. The latter target stressed skin and has been proven to reduce stretch marks by 62 per cent in eight weeks. Dermatologist tested and formulated, this is safe on sensitive skins as well. It’s only available online, but ships to Singapore in nine to 12 working days.
USD73 at Evereden.
7. Mustela Fragrance-Free Stretch Marks Cream
Maracuja oil is the key active ingredient in this velvety cream that helps reinforce skin elasticity, keeping it soft and supple. Apply throughout pregnancy and beyond to help prevent and limit the appearance of stretch marks, while soothing the tightness and discomfort of your stretched belly skin with tingling sensations. This vegan cream formulated from 96 per cent naturally derived ingredients is also breastfeeding friendly so you can use it postpartum as well.
(See also: 10 Postnatal Massage services to help you Heal and Slim down after giving Birth)
8. Stratamark Gel
Silicone gels like Stratamark are said to be more effective than creams when it comes to stretch mark treatment. We’ve not tried this, but in clinical studies participated by over 500 pregnant women who used it, 81.8 per cent did not develop stretch marks. An encouraging statistic, no? What’s more, the gel contains no alcohol, fragrances, or parabens so pregnant mothers, breastfeeding mothers, and people with sensitive skin can safely use it. Long term, it can also help soften and flatten stretch marks and reduce discolouration, while relieving itchiness and discomfort.
$79.90 at Aurigamart.
:: Extra! :: 9. Evereden Soothing Belly Mask
You know that sheet masks can do for your face. What about your belly? Spread this over your blossoming belly and let it drench your skin with its blend of concentrated serum, organic oils, and collagen. It’s available in two sizes to hydrate, soothe, and treat your body trimester by trimester. This cooling and refreshing treat is perfect for an evening of prenatal self-care and pampering, we reckon.
USD11 at Evereden.
Prices are accurate at time of publishing
Featured image: Ignacio Campo on Unsplash
(See also: What is postnatal confinement at Kai Suites like? A mum who stayed there tells us (review))
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