Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Oil

This is a product that promotes its ability to prevent these stretch marks. Being as they are very common with women during pregnancy, it is a product that is closely looked at by new Moms to be, and draws their attraction as the product is deemed to be safe to use during pregnancy.

Product Use

The main use of the product is for the prevention of stretch marks as well as dry and itchy skin that are common during pregnancy.
Product Ingredients
Omega 3,6 & 9 – omega fatty acids
Vitamin E from Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcus)

This is the extracted oil from the dried kernels of sweet almonds. It is well known for its ability to be quickly absorbed into the skin. It is also beneficial as carrier oil for the other product ingredients. It is rich in vitamin E.
Borage Oil (Barago Officinalis)

This is a fatty acid that is derived from the wildflower known as the starflower. It produces linoleic acid which is a fatty acid that our body requires, but is not able to produce and for health purposes. It must be obtained through our diet. For external use for skin conditions there have been substantial studies to support its benefits.
Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum Vulgare Oil)

This oil is rich in vitamin A,D, and E, and also many vitamins. It is also a sensitive oil that will break down quickly when exposed to certain adverse conditions such as extreme temperatures. One of the important features about this oil is that it has the ability to encourage new cell growth.

Rosehip Seed Oil (Rosa Moschata Seed Oil

This is fatty acid oil that is also high in Vitamin A (retinol) as well as Vitamin C. It is the oil that it is extracted from the seeds of a specific rosebush. It is a favored ingredient used to promote scar healing. It is known to increase collagen and elastin levels.
Scented with Gravida
This is a blend of 10 essential oils deemed to be safe for those that are pregnant and provides the pleasant scent that this product possesses.

Additional Ingredients
Tocopherol vitamin E
Used mostly for scent
Parfum (Fragrance)
Limonene
Linalool
Citral
Citronellol
Evernia Furfuracea
Benzyl Benzoate

Why It May Work

The ingredients that are rich in linoleic acid make this one of the most beneficial aspects of Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Oil. Plus, the addition of ingredients such as the wheatgerm oil that will help to stimulate new cell growth, and the rosehip oil that helps with collagen and elastin levels.

Why It May Not Work

Based on the majority of the ingredients being more as a preventative measure rather than a corrective measure, the product as promoted is beneficial towards using it before the stretch marks occur. There may be some limited benefit to using it as an aftermath when they have already occurred, with the presence of Rosehip oil which is also used in the promotion of scar healing.

Pros and Cons

Pros
Along with the superior ingredients mentioned, what is just as important is what is not in this product, which is petrolatum and sodium laureth sulfate, as well as colorants and paraben.

Cons

Those allergic to nuts may have a problem because of the almond oil. For people with wheat or gluten allergies caution may need to be exercised because of the wheatgerm oil. Then there are many essential oils that could be an issue with those that have allergies. Most significant may be the Benzyl Benzoate which is being used as a fragrance source, and one which may not be approved by the Rexpan panel which is the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials, because of the risk of sensitization. Also another factor is the use of Parfum which is a loose term, and could mean a large collection of chemical ingredients utilized to scent the product.

 
Summary:

Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Oil is promoted by its manufacturers for the prevention of stretch marks in pregnant women. They have promoted an honest assessment of what the product is best used for. There are many other reasons for stretch marks besides pregnancy which include obesity, the use of some prescriptive medications, and some diseases. As a preventative it certainly would be worth using as once these striae occur they are far more difficult to try and get rid of.
Aside from the risk of allergies I personally would recommend the use of the product, as an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Using topical treatments like this means that you must also have realistic expectations as well. Although the skin does absorb to a certain measure what is applied to it, there is a limit of how many layers of skin a product can actually benefit. Using a product that is rich in quality ingredients such as this are naturally going to be more effective at penetration, but again there is a limit. These are the types of issues that you must consider when you want to use a cosmetic product for a specific reason. By focusing on all of the aspects of the product it gives you the opportunity to make an informed decision.

A few months ago I took a good, long look at my body. As the mother of two active toddlers, I often feel a little older than my 33 years, but I never thought I looked older. After getting out of the shower and going through my “nightly beauty routine,” I noticed I seemed to be covered in stretch marks. There were quite a few on my tummy and belly, from carrying my children, some on my arms and breasts, from a little weight gain, and some on my thighs, from, well, I am not sure why there are stretch marks on my thighs.

I made an appointment with my doctor, who told me the medical community refers to stretch marks as “striae” and that they are caused by pregnancy, growing taller, rapid weight gain or weight loss, and in some cases, genetics. She recommended an expensive cream and I immediately purchased her recommendation.

I used her recommended cream for over two weeks and saw no results. My stretch marks were not lighter nor were they disappearing. In fact, I was sure more had come to join the pack. Then, a friend told me she was using Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream. She told me this stretch mark cream was specially formulated with shea butter, Vitamins E and C, and that it contained professionally formulated collage repair systems as well as skin tighteners.

Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream not only lightens and reduces current stretch marks, it works to prevent new ones from appearing. In only 15 days, the special shea butter formulation causes the skin to feel softer and more supple. Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream provides 12-hour moisture, so it can be used during the day or at night while sleeping. Unlike other creams on the market, it does not have to be reapplied every two or four hours. Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream can be applied in the morning after a shower, while getting dressed, and then again at night before bed.

Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream is not just for women. Men often end up with stretch marks. Those who have grown taller or gained or lost weight can end up with stretch marks, but even those men who have always been physically fit may notice stretch marks that appear from lifting weights. My husband is often at the gym and on closer inspection, we noticed he had stretch marks hidden under his arms, radiating from his shoulders. Because Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream has no “girly” odor, my husband was willing to use it, especially when he noticed how my stretch marks were either fading or completely disappearing.

The first time I tried Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream, I decided to try it on the newer stretch marks. I had some that seemed almost purple in color as well as many that appeared to be a shimmery, silver color. The purple ones were so ugly, it was getting to the point where I was embarrassed to wear short sleeves. With bathing suit season approaching, I was considering hiding my tummy area in a one piece, but after looking at my upper thigh area, I was debating as to whether I even wanted to go to the pool or beach. I knew swimming and going to the beach were things my children enjoyed and things my family had always enjoyed together, so I needed to do something about these hideous stretch marks.

For three weeks I used Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream on all my stretch marks twice a day. I was expecting the Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream to be oily since it contains all the different vitamins and the shea butter, but instead it was very light. It almost had the consistency of very lightly whipped cream. I noticed within four days that some of my lighter stretch marks seemed to be gone. I thought I must be mistaken and put small Sharpie marks next to some of the lighter stretch marks. Three days later, they were gone. I got up the nerve to take a good long look at the deep purple ones and noticed they seemed to be lighter and not nearly as deep.

Every day for three weeks, I noticed old stretch marks becoming somewhat reduced, and newer ones lightning. Not only that, I noticed no new stretch marks at all. Even some scars I had on my arms were fading. That certainly grabbed my attention, so I began slathering the Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream on my body each morning and night. It never stained any of my clothing and it made my skin feel so soft. My husband told me my skin felt as if it were softer than the skin of my children. Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream is so affordable, I could use it on my legs and my feet without worrying about the cost. Scars I have had on my legs since childhood are lighter and much less noticeable and my feet feel soft and look pretty.

I have been impressed with Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream that I have been recommending it to everyone I see or know that has a problem with stretch marks. My sister and my mother are both using it now and they have noticed a huge difference in the amount of stretch marks on their body. My mother said for the first time in 30 years, she would be wearing a two-piece bathing suit this summer. I have already planned two vacations to the beach and have bought not one, but two bikinis, in addition to some cute sandals. I also plan to be sure I have plenty of Intensive Concentrate Stretch Mark Cream and that I pack it while on my vacations.

Stretch marks can be a result of rapid weight gain (or loss), pregnancy and even going through a growth spurt. As a result of all of this, lines will appear that are often pink or red and sometimes grooved to the touch. They are more often found on the hips, stomach, and breasts but can be on other parts of the body, too.

The topical cream goes deep into the tissues to stimulate the body’s cells to produce more collagen. This collagen will improve the elasticity of the skin and therefore shrink the lines of the stretch marks and reduce the color.

The ingredients in the cream take some time to build up into the skin cells. This is why constant application needs to be done. The ingredients will sink down deep into the skin’s various layers. As they enter the cells, the cells begin to activate the collagen production. The more collagen produced, the more the skin cells regain their elasticity. Look at it like a balloon. Without air in it, it’s shriveled. Add air and it’s now smooth. The same principle is applied for your skin, which is why your stretch marks are uneven to the touch. The collagen will smooth those lines out so that they look as good as new. You’ll now be able to sport a bathing suit in the summer without feeling self conscious about those stretch marks.

Clinique has an enormous line of skincare products, including their new Clinique CX Stretch Mark Cream. Clinique’s customer base is so significant because they put out a quality product that does what it says it will do. While there aren’t very many reviews available for the Clinique CX stretch mark cream yet, it’s inevitably a good product as the name seems to bring a certain expectation to the skincare market. Just like their anti-aging cream and moisturizers, people buy the cream because it works.

The Clinique cream is fragrance-free, which is a nice change from some of the creams on the market. When you’re applying a cream to get rid of a physical blemish, you don’t want to smell medicinal. The goal of a cream should be to do the job without everyone knowing that there’s something going on. This cream does just that. If you were hoping for a great smelling product that gives you a dual purpose, you won’t find it here. You can make up for it with a little spritz of perfume, though.

The fragrance-free cream is great for people with allergies, too. Added fragrances are what often cause skin breakouts. When you’re trying to correct a problem, the last thing you want is another problem to deal with. If you find that you often have breakouts to fragrances, the Clinique cream is one of the few stretch mark creams on the market that don’t have added fragrances.

Many stretch mark creams use steroids which can cause burning and peeling. This may be fine for the marks that are old and deep, but if you are looking for something less aggressive, the Clinique CX stretch mark cream will be it. It’s got a built-in moisturizer inside the cream so as you massage the cream into the trouble zones, you’ll leave your skin feeling soft. As a result, though, the cream will only treat the newer stretch marks. If you’ve had stretch marks for years, the cream may do a little bit but probably won’t be strong enough to make a significant impact.

There is the saying that you get what you pay for. Clinique CX is not the cheapest stretch mark cream on the market. There are lots of products on the market for a fraction of the cost. It is much like the rest of the skincare products on the market. If you’re happy with the quality you get out of Clinique products, then you’ll be happy with this one, too. Many people feel that the quality of the cream’s ingredients are much more superior to the other brands available. This is user specific so it’s going to depend upon your budget.

The recognized brand of Clinique gives the product a one-up on the competition. The name has been backed by health magazines and celebrities for years. When you go into a department store, you can easily spot a Clinique counter. All of these people can’t possibly endorse the products and spend the money on the products if they don’t work, right? When you’re looking for a stretch mark cream that has history behind the line, you’ll find that Clinique is one of the few that can say this. Other creams are made by manufacturers that only make stretch mark creams so there’s no comparison to other products.

The cream will only work if you use it. The cream has directions on the side of the bottle but you need to follow them to see the results. If you only put the cream on once a week and still have stretch marks, it’s not the cream’s fault – it’s yours. The cream is designed to be applied two to three times a day, every day, for a month. At the end of the month you will notice a difference in the appearance of your stretch marks.

Some creams are hard to find. You may read about them but when it comes time to locating the cream, you’ll be waiting for weeks for the shipment to come in or the store to stock it because it’s not a common product. Clinique already has a following so their products are readily available. This means that you can get your Clinique CX cream online or at your local Clinique counter with ease, getting rid of your stretch marks now instead of later

You can encourage the lightening of stretch marks by using specially formulated creams or lotions. Elastin3 Advanced Stretch Mark Therapy is one of the most effective types of stretch mark creams available. It is made by Robelyn Labs and comes in a convenient 8 ounce tube. This unique cream was given the highest ratings by the Skin Care Buyers Guide for its ability to not only reduce existing striae but to prevent future marks from forming.

Elastin3 Advanced Stretch Mark Therapy cream is the ideal choice for improving the look of your stretch marks. Whether your scars are old or new, the cream is strong enough to diminish their appearance. Elastin3 contains AH3 which is an amino peptide sold under the trade name Argireline. AH3 is able to penetrate deep into the dermis of the skin. The dermis is the middle skin layer that holds the skin’s shape and is where stretch marks form.

The amino peptide formula of Elastin3 makes it one of the most effective and revolutionary products on the market. The overstretching of the dermis can cause the connective fibers within the dermis to break. Because AH3 can reach deep inside the dermis, it penetrates into the depths of the fibers to improve their elasticity. The proteins in the amino acid-based formula of Elastin3 are essential to strengthening the living cells in skin.

While skin is generally elastic and resilient, stretching of the dermis fibers can cause collagen production to cease. Collagen is a protein that keeps the connective tissue in skin strong. As you get older, the amount of collagen you produce lessens. Elastin3 cream has hydrolyzed collagen which breaks down for easy absorption. The collagen soaks into the lowest layers of the epidermis and fills in the ridges caused by the skin stretching.

Not only does Elastin3 contain protein-rich collagen, it is composed of powdered elastin in concentrated form. The high concentration of this substance makes Elastin3 ten times more powerful than other elastin-based creams on the market. Your skin needs elastin in order to stretch without forming scars. Elastin3 provides enough of this ingredient to keep the skin supple and resilient.

Another essential skin-protecting ingredient in Elastin3 is soy. Many of the most effective skin-revitalizing creams contain soy. It is a necessary component for keeping skin healthy and youthful. Elastin3 uses soy in extract form. It is combined with other essential ingredients that work together to balance out the moisture in the skin cells. This creates a more even tone on the skin’s surface.

Elastin3 Advanced Stretch Mark Therapy uses the most valuable skin-rejuvenating nutrients to improve the look of your skin. You can see results within one month. When it is massaged into the skin daily, the cream goes to work quickly. The best results require application two to three times each day. For pregnant women, beginning use of this cream at the start of pregnancy will prevent marks from forming.

Men and women will see results from using Elastin3. If you’ve gained weight in a short period of time, the cream will repair any damage done to your skin. Bodybuilders who see marks forming along muscle-filled zones will benefit from the cream as well. If you repeatedly use steroid ointments or creams, you may develop stretch marks. Elastin3 will reduce the marks that form and prevent new ones from developing.

The Elastin3 formula is ideal for people of all ages and skin types. It is safe for pregnant and nursing women as well. If you are breastfeeding, the makers of Elastin3 recommend that you do not use the cream where your baby will be nursing. The product is not greasy and has a nice, creamy consistency. It absorbs quickly, so you do not have to worry about it soaking into your clothing.

This advanced therapy cream is fairly costly, however, it lasts a long time. One 8 ounce bottle can last approximately four months. You pay the extra amount for a quality name brand. Many other products on the market may be less expensive, but they require twice as much use to see results. The Elastin3 cream is the perfect consistency, so none of it gets wasted as you apply it to your skin.

Elastin3 uses products that are highly advanced. The combination of amino acids, elastin, collagen and soy make this cream a cosmetic miracle. It is effective in decreasing the depth of the striae as well as shrinking the length of the scar. The result is smoother, natural-looking, supple skin. Whether you have stretch marks on your legs, stomach, or arms, this cream will give you the youthful appearance you are seeking.

The makers of Elastin3 Advanced Stretch Mark Therapy do not test their product on animals. This is an added bonus for the environmentally-conscious. The cream is also mild and does not cause breakouts. It has a pleasant, calming smell, so you can apply it before you go out. In addition to working on repairing stretch marks, it acts as a moisturizing agent for your skin. It keeps skin soft and hydrated which improves its overall appearance.

Elastin3 Advanced Stretch Mark Therapy does what the company claims it does. It reduces the appearance of stretch marks and prevents new marks from forming. The cream firms the skin, repairs the scar tissue, and improves the texture of the skin. By using this product, you will see a tighter skin surface. Your skin will be healthier, look younger, and feel smoother than ever. Elastin3 is a superior product that works.

Millions of individuals suffer from unsightly stretch mark scars on their arms, legs, stomachs, and thighs, and such marks can leave an individual with reduced self confidence or self esteem. It is for this reason that many such individuals search for a remedy which will reduce the appearance of these troublesome scars. While there are no miracle products that eliminate such marks permanently, some people find significant relief from products such as Bio Oil. Bio Oil is manufactured by Union-Swiss, a South African company located in Cape Town.

Ingredients of Bio Oil

There are multiple ingredients in this formula, however, Bio Oil’s main ingredients are Purcellin and mineral oil, vitamins E and A, and additional oils such as chamomile, rosemary, lavender, calendula, and mineral oil. Of all its ingredients, most dermatologists regard vitamin E as the most effective, as this is a vitamin that assists the body’s natural ability to heal scars and make them less obvious.

Cost

Bio Oil can be purchased from a variety of websites for approximately $10.00. This price provides customers with a two ounce bottle which will last about one month if used twice daily, as the label instructs.

Effectiveness

The product claims to improve an uneven skin tone, diminish the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and that it is a non greasy product that absorbs quickly and produces fast results with regard to the fading of stretch marks. Other claims include its effectiveness with regard to the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and that it is a high performance skin moisturizer which can reduce the signs of aging.

Some individuals who have used Bio Oil state that they found the product to be an effective remedy with regard to fading the appearance of stretch marks and other types of scars. However, many people expressed negative thoughts about the product’s ability to reduce the signs of aging or decrease the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, many customers stated that with regular use, they felt a decrease in the depth of their stretch marks and other scars. Most customers also stated that they liked the scent and texture of the oil and found that it absorbed quite well if kept away from clothing until dry.

On the flip side, there were a number of individuals who, after using the product religiously for several months, stated that there was no evidence of any change in the condition of their skin. This included results concerning the appearance of aging signs such as wrinkles, as well as the results of the product’s effectiveness with regard to stretch marks and scars. Most Bio Oil users had favorable things to say with regard to the moisturizing effect of the product, however, the majority of dermatologists state that mineral oil–the main active ingredient in Bio-Oil–has a very moisturizing effect regardless of the product in which it is found. Additionally, certain studies that were conducted in the past point to the fact that mineral oil may be harmful if used long-term, and a number of companies state it should not be used for cosmetic purposes. Its use has been banned in countries such as Europe, however, dermatologists and other experts offer split opinions with regard to the aforementioned studies. However, as with other beauty products, Bio Oil must meet the rigid requirements with regard to purity that are set by the United States Food and Drug Administration–FDA–as well as other, internationally accepted standards for cosmetic products.

Summary

Since reviews for this product are comprised of an equal mix of positive and negative statements, the only way by which individuals can determine if this product will prove beneficial is to try it for the appropriate length of time recommended by the manufacturer, and see for themselves whether or not positive results are achieved.

Dermology’s cream contains a variety of active ingredients, so if one ingredient doesn’t help your skin, another might. The active ingredients include squalene oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3, DL-Pentathol, aloe vera extract, and grapefruit seed extract. Although squalene has been harvested from sharks in the past, the substance found in this cream actually comes from olive oil. Squalene is very similar to the oils that are naturally found in your skin, and it is often used to reduce scar tissue. Vitamin E is another important ingredient in any stretch mark cream, this powerful antioxidant is required for your body to repair itself. Vitamin E increases skin elasticity and allows your body to compensate for major changes without forming stretch marks in the first place. Unlike many so-called “miracle ingredients,” vitamin E has been studied thoroughly by the medical community, and it has proved effective many times. Vitamin A Palmitate hasn’t been studied so thoroughly yet, but it has definitely been linked to healthy skin cells and proper cellular growth.

Your skin can normally produce vitamin D3 by itself. Your body then uses this substance to produce vitamin E and keep your skin healthy and happy. Unfortunately, many adults do not get enough sun exposure to produce a healthy amount of D3, and their skin suffers for it. However, creams like Dermology stretch mark cream can apply the vitamin straight to your skin. DL-Pentathol is another vitamin substance that helps boost skin cell activity and allow your skin to repair itself.

Nobody likes to slather their skin with chemicals. Dermology stretch mark cream uses natural ingredients that are safe, gentle, and effective. The aloe vera plant has been used for centuries to help improve the health of the skin. Aloe helps increase skin elasticity, allowing your body to bounce back after a big stretch like pregnancy. Grapefruit seed extract has similar properties, and it can’t hurt to have both in the cream. One of the inactive ingredients is glycerin, another moisturizing substance that can help reduce and prevent scarring.

The downside to anything natural is that “natural” does not mean “harmless” or “good for everybody.” Just like every natural ingredient will not work for every person, some natural ingredients are harmful to some people. The biggest complaint about the Dermology stretch mark cream is the allergic reactions that some people have. If you have had reactions to moisturizing creams or soaps in the past, you will probably want to test the Dermology cream on the inside of your wrist or elbow before using it on a large area of your body. If you do end up with an itchy rash, try to isolate the ingredient that caused it so you can avoid that in the future.

If you’ve got big, bold, deep stretch marks already, don’t count on having flawless skin just from using a cream. Dermology stretch mark cream is good, but it’s not that good. Those marks aren’t going to disappear without surgery, microdermabrasion, or fractional laser resurfacing. However, most creams are going to be way cheaper and more convenient. You’ll still get results, but don’t expect miracles.

I think Dermology has found a winning combination of effective ingredients here. The best time to use it is obviously before you develop stretch marks. Remember that most women end up with stretch marks after pregnancy, between 75% and 90% of us will get them. Fortunately doctors have been studying and testing different ways to remove them for years. Dermology has created a cream based on science, and it really can prevent stretch marks. If you’ve already got them, the cream can make them fade gradually as your skin repairs itself.

The stretch mark cream promises regardless of the stretch mark color or age it fade the stretch mark. Avon’s treatment uses patented Trilaser technology to help stimulate collagen to correct the appearance of the stretch marks. It also claims to boost elastin to help prevent new stretch marks from occurring. The product includes ingredients like Butea to help fade and lighten stretch marks. Customers are instructed to apply the cream once in the morning and evening on to the stretch mark areas: thighs, hips, buttocks and arms. Within two weeks users should begin to see a change. But, does this cream really work?

PROS of Avon Stretch Cream

Stretch marks can occur at any time or any age. Once the skin stretches beyond its limit, the skin breaks down and the marks can be seen through the upper layer of the skin called the epidermis (stretch marks form underneath the upper layer of the skin). To determine whether or not Avon Stretch Mark Smoother cream works, examination needs to start with the ingredients.

The ingredients in the Avon stretch cream is water, extracts of hydrolyzed ulva lactuca, isopropyl palmitate, dimthicone, macrocystis, pyrifera extract, glycerin, steareth-2, magnesium sillicate, propanol, carbomer, aminomethyl, fragrance, methylparaben, and propylparaben. The blend of these chemicals and natural products give major benefits such as thickness – so it is easier to use, a non-pungent fragrance, within economical reach, and shows results in about 2 to 3 weeks. Overall users rate this product as a 4.5 over 5.

CONS of Avon Stretch Cream

Nonetheless, some users do not rate the product as high on the scale. While the product works well in lighting stretch marks, it does not work well on marks 10 to 15 years old. If you have very old stretch marks you will do better using a cream made of natural ingredients. For older stretch marks try products containing Shea Butter, Licorice extract, Aloe Vera, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract and Palmitolyl Tetrapeptide-7. These ingredients have wonderful healing and moisturizing properties.

By knowing what these ingredients are and what function they serve in reducing stretch marks, the savvy consumer can ensure that whatever cream is purchased, the essential ingredients needed to reduce stretch marks will be included.

First, it is important to understand how stretch marks form in order to understand how stretch mark creams can help. The skin is composed of three layers, the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. The dermis, or middle layer, is responsible for providing elasticity and structure to the skin. When this layer is damaged due to rapid expansion of the skin, such as that which occurs in pregnancy, the collagen fibers that compose this layer become stretched and damaged.

This damage results in the characteristic appearance of stretch marks, which appear reddened initially, then gradually fade to a white or a silvery appearance over time. Most research has found that stretch marks are more easily treated in the initial stages, when stretch marks are reddish or purplish in color.

Creams that are designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks target stretch marks in several ways. Some stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin, two components of the dermis which are damaged by stretching. Some add moisture to the skin, allowing it to grow and expand more easily without being damaged. Some ingredients, such as vitamins and minerals, support the health of skin at the cellular level.
What ingredients are essential in a good stretch mark cream? The following can be considered the “who’s who” of stretch mark cream ingredients:
Aloe vera- aloe vera has long been known for its healing properties. Often used in healing mild skin conditions such as sun burns, aloe is also a wonderful moisturizer. Use daily to prevent stretch marks.

Cocoa butter- cocoa butter has natural healing properties and is an effective moisturizer. Cocoa also has antioxidant properties. Cocoa butter has been used extensively in the treatment of many skin conditions, including stretch marks.

Glycolic acid- glycolic acid is a fruit acid which comes from sugar cane. In high concentrations, glycolic acid can be harmful, so concentrations of less than 10% are often used in skin creams. Glycolic acid may be less than effective at these levels. Higher concentrations of glycolic acid are used by dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons.
Retinyl- retinyl palmitate can readily be converted to retinoic acid, which stimulates new cell growth. Topical retinoic acid can cause photosensitivity and skin irritation, therefore this form of retinoic acid is safer to use.

Shea butter- a solid fatty oil, shea butter contains stearic and oleic and is one of the best emollients around. It is incorporated into many skin care creams for this reason. It may be helpful in preventing stretch marks from forming by allowing the skin to stretch more easily.
Vitamins- vitamins C, D and E all play an important role in skin health, stimulating collagen and elastin to grow. Most stretch mark creams will contain at least one of these.
It can be confusing choosing a stretch mark cream. As long as the cream you choose contains some of these ingredients, it will likely be helpful. Just remember, no cream is guaranteed to rid you of stretch marks completely, but the use of creams designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks may do just that.

Abdominoplasty is the only current surgical procedure that removes stretch marks; however, abdominoplasty is not designed solely for the removal of stretch marks. Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a procedure performed to improve the size and shape of the abdomen for persons who have recently lost a lot of weight, such as women who have recently given birth or people who have lost a large amount of weight due to weight loss surgery or dieting. Abdominoplasty is considered a major surgical procedure and should not be considered solely for the removal of stretch marks. The fact that stretch marks are removed during the procedure is an extra benefit of the procedure, but should not be the lone reason for having this type of surgery. If, however, you also want to contour your abdomen in addition to removing stretch marks, then abdominoplasty may be right for you.
What is abdominoplasty? A tummy tuck removes excess skin and/or fat. Weakened or separated abdominal muscles can also be restored, creating an abdomen that is much firmer and smoother. In the course of removing excess skin, stretch marks can also be excised.
Who is a good candidate for abdominoplasty? Persons considering a tummy tuck should be in good general health. Prior to having the procedure done, the surgical candidate will meet with the surgeon to discuss the procedure. At this time, the candidate’s health history, including any health problems and prior surgeries will be discussed. Expectations for the outcome of the surgery will also be discussed.

Any surgical candidate should know that abdominoplasty will not restore the abdominal contour completely or perfectly, and a realistic expectation of results is an important detail to consider. Anyone who has lost a large amount of weight may be a candidate for the procedure; however, women who are planning on having more children may want to consider putting off abdominoplasty until they have completed their family.
What needs to be done prior to surgery? Before having an abdominoplasty, you may have to have blood drawn. You may also be asked to stop taking any medications that may cause bleeding, such as aspirin. You will be counseled to stop smoking. You will need to inform your surgeon of any medications you are taking, including vitamins and supplements. You will be asked to sign a consent for surgery.

You will also be informed of the care required following surgery, what to expect in the first few days, and when to call the surgeon in the event you should suffer a complication. You will need to plan ahead if your abdominoplasty is being performed on an outpatient basis, as you will require someone to drive you home

If this sounds like you, you are not alone. Many women (60-90%, according to some studies) develop stretch marks at some point in their pregnancy. If you are Caucasian, you are more likely to develop them, and if your mother and sisters also have them, you are also more likely to get them. Your skin type may also play a role in the development of stretch marks. Other factors, such as weight gain, diet and age, have also been implicated as risk factors for stretch marks, called striae by health professionals.

What causes stretch marks? Stretch marks are caused by a stretching force on the skin (such as that which occurs when the abdomen rapidly expands to accommodate a growing fetus) resulting in damage to the dermis, the middle layer of your skin. This layer provides support and structure to your skin so that damage to this layer results in the characteristic reddish or purplish discoloration of stretch marks. Over time, these marks or lines fade to a whitish or silvery color. Although they will fade naturally, they never totally disappear.

What can be done about stretch marks after you have given birth? Most studies agree that treating stretch marks as early as possible after their development is the key to their successful removal. Most stretch marks will not go away completely (think of them as badges of honor for surviving pregnancy and childbirth), but treatment may improve their appearance greatly. The following are some treatments that are anecdotally successful in reducing stretch marks; a few have some scientific basis to back them:

• Oils- some oils, such as wheat germ oil, are a popular remedy for stretch marks. One study found that, when used in the early phase after the development of stretch marks, wheat germ oil was helpful in fading them.

• Glycolic acid- an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA), glycolic acid has been used as a chemical peel by dermatologists. It is thought to work by stimulating collagen production. It is available in some over-the-counter formulations and is also available in higher strengths from a dermatologist. More than one treatment is required, and treatments may be expensive.

• Vitamin C- vitamin C is also thought to stimulate the formation of collagen. You may choose to take an oral supplement (the suggested amount is 500 mg a day), or you may buy it as a topical formulation. It is sometimes used with glycolic acid to potentiate each of their effects.

• Retinoids- retinoids belong to the vitamin A family. There are several commercial preparations of vitamin A to treat stretch marks, including Retin-A, Retinol and Tretinoin. None of these products can be used if you are pregnant or nursing. How do they work? They are thought to boost elastin and collagen formation and should be used during the early phase of stretch mark development.

• Laser treatments- various types of lasers have been used to attempt to remove stretch marks. Many firmly believe in their power to reduce the appearance of both old and new stretch marks, but be prepared: it may take several sessions to achieve the results you want, and laser therapy can be very expensive. You may be expected to pay up to $1,000.00 per session.

• Surgery- the only surgery that is guaranteed to remove stretch marks actually removes the affected skin. This type of surgery, called abdominoplasty, is often done to remove both excess fat and loose skin, sculpting the abdomen to achieve a more pleasing visual effect. It may be done under a local or general anesthetic and is not without risk. If you are choosing this route to rid yourself of stretch marks, it is important to research your surgeon and to be aware of both the risks and benefits. This surgery will not be covered under any insurance plans as it is considered to be cosmetic surgery, done only for aesthetic reasons.
Although most women will develop stretch marks during pregnancy, there are treatments available that can help fade stretch marks, although they may not get rid of them completely. Treating stretch marks soon after they appear, when they are still new, is recommended. Once they have faded to a white or silvery color they will be much more difficult to treat. If you are concerned about your stretch marks, you may want to ask your physician about any products he or she recommends. If you are nursing, you will want to keep in mind that some products cannot be used while nursing.