How to choose the right anti-stretch mark oil?
Several criteria come into play when choosing an anti-stretch mark oil. They are based as much on objective data as on purely personal preferences.
The composition
This is certainly the first criterion to take into account in your choice, especially if you are a pregnant woman wishing to find a 100% safe product for your child and yourself. An anti-stretch mark oil must, by definition, be made , if possible extracted by cold pressing (preservation of the intrinsic properties of the oil), or even organic.
However, some containmineral oils, i.e. ingredients derived from petrochemicals – for example, paraffin, petroleum jelly or petrolatum. Although no risk associated with the use of these oils in cosmetics has been demonstrated, it should be borne in mind that these components are made from saturated hydrocarbons. Of course, they have qualities: occlusive character to maintain the hydration of the skin, oily texture to soften the epidermis. But the accumulation effect in the body related to the daily application of cosmetics rich in mineral oils invites caution.
In addition, some stretch mark oils contain Adjuvants, preservatives and fragrances , which are all possible sources of undesirable allergies, especially during pregnancy.
Finally, be aware that essential oils, sometimes contained in anti-stretch mark oils, are not dangerous to health, but are not harmless in the event of pregnancy. Their very powerful active ingredients can have effects on the development of the fetus (transdermal route).
Also, to choose your anti-stretch mark oil with full knowledge of the facts, it is better to look at its composition; some sites help you with this, such as INCI Beauty.
The texture
The second criterion to take into account is more personal, and concerns the texture of the anti-stretch mark oil. Indeed, some oils will be more oily and/or thicker than others. Ditto for the speed of penetration, which differs from one oil to another. This is also the case for the touch, which will be more or less dry. For information:
- Anti-stretch mark oils made with coconut, hemp, shea olein, rosehip, safflower or babassu oil will soak into the skin fairly quickly.
- Anti-stretch mark oils made from inca inchi, jojoba, macadamia, hazelnut, grape seed or sesame oil will have a dry feel, with rapid penetration.
- Stretch mark oils prepared with marula, argan, wheat germ, avocado, or calophyllum oil will have a richer, oilier texture.
The best option, moreover, remains the mixture of vegetable oils: an anti-stretch mark oil composed of a unique alloy of different oils benefits from the different properties of each, for increased effectiveness and optimal texture during daily use. .
How effective are stretch mark oils?
The Skinnaturally produces a fatty substance, via the sebaceous glands: sebum. It acts as a natural barrier to protect the skin from drying out by blocking the loss of water through sweat. Sebum andsweatshirt constitute the Hydrolipidic Filmof the skin. In certain contexts, including pregnancy, sebaceous production tends to decrease. However, skin dryness is a factor favoring stretch marks.
The application of an anti-stretch mark oil therefore makes it possible to:
- Limit dehydration and dryness of the skin, restoring the balance of the hydrolipidic film.
- Prevent the appearance of stretch marks, maintaining good elasticity and skin resistance.
- Attenuate the cracked appearance of stretch marks , by nourishing the dermis and stimulating the production of elastic fibers (positive effect on cellular cement).
- Calm the subcutaneous inflammation caused by the appearance of stretch marks.
How to properly use your anti-stretch mark oil?
Prior exfoliation
Before using its anti-stretch mark oil, it is advisable to exfoliate your skin. However, some precautions should be taken.
Exfoliation should not be practiced every day, otherwise it will irritate the skin and exacerbate the phenomenon of stretch marks. Also, it is recommended to carry out a body scrub twice a week.
In addition, it is better to choose a gentle exfoliant. You have different options:
- Choose a natural solution, and practice a scrub based on Epsom salt, sugar or coffee grounds.
- Opt for the cosmetic solution, carefully choosing a commercially purchased scrub, and paying attention to its composition (choose a product with small grains, which will be much gentler on your skin).
- Prefer the manual option, and exfoliate with a horsehair glove, konjac sponge, or dry brushing.
The main benefits of exfoliation prior to the application of an anti-stretch mark oil are:
- Boost microcirculation and optimize the effects of the oil
- To rid the skin of its dead cells and to promote the penetration of natural active ingredients
- Stimulate the lower layers of the epidermis and boost the production of collagen and elastin
Regularity
For it to be effective, the application of your anti-stretch mark oil must be daily. It is the regularity that makes all its effectiveness. If used as a hobby, the skin will not be nourished enough and the softening, nourishing and regenerating effects of the anti-stretch mark oil will not be exploited to their full potential. A basic rule, which also applies to all body care.
Stimulating massage
The application of your anti-stretch mark oil should possibly be accompanied by a massage of the affected area. Indeed, invigorating circular movements can boost circulation, by stimulating the subcutaneous blood network. The cellular cement of the skin, thus better nourished and oxygenated, will be more inclined to produce new elastic fibers. They are essential for the healing and regeneration of the skin.
Compliance with Terms of Use
Finally, to properly use your anti-stretch mark oil, it is important to respect the conditions of use of the product, provided by the manufacturer.
- Often anti-stretch mark oils are applied to clean and dry skin.
- Beforehand, it is advisable to test the formulation of the anti-stretch mark oil on the crease of the elbow, to check its tolerance to the product.
- If you know you are allergic to one of the components, it is better to avoid applying the product to the rest of the body.
- If you notice any adverse effect, such as rash, itching or unpleasant sensation, it is better to stop using the stretch mark oil in question.
- It is better to avoid using your anti-stretch mark oil on skin with lesions, wounds, skin conditions, sunburn.
- Contact with eyes and mucous membranes is not recommended and should be rinsed thoroughly.
- Apply your anti-stretch mark oil only to the areas mentioned by the manufacturer’s laboratory.
- If you are pregnant, check that the composition of your anti-stretch mark oil is 100% compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding, i.e. free of allergens and endocrine disruptors. The application could have harmful consequences for your baby’s health, if the composition of the product is not “clean”.
