talkhealth forums

Our guest visitor, Caroline, asks:

I had my son 8 months ago, during my pregnancy I was religious about using anti-stretch mark oils. I took care to eat healthily and kept up with a fitness regime. Despite all this, I still developed really bad stretch marks which have not faded at all since giving birth. I feel like I've tried everything at this point and it's really having an effect on my self-esteem and confidence. Is there anything else I should be trying or talking to my GP about?

Hello Caroline,

Whether your stretch marks are pink/purple or a slivery white, skin camouflage can offer some help.The colour can certainly be minimised, however the linear appearance will remain and be visible.The whole area would require a cover cream application rather than covering each individual stria.

There are many benefits to applying skin camouflage products and whilst the camouflage application may be limited for stretch marks the fact that you can go swimming and exercise and it stays on, may be helpful.

If you decide to try skin camouflage, I suggest a private appointment with tuition would be the best way forward.

Best wishes,

I agree with the previous reply in that Skin Camouflage is the best option. There is not much evidence to support the use of lasers in this case.

Hi Caroline
I am sorry to hear you are feeling so upset about your stretch marks, due to pregnancy; lots of women feel exactly the same - but is it often something that people just don't talk about. They are so common and it just seems that some women are more susceptible to stretch marks, than others. Over time, they will fade, so I am sure they will look much better as time goes one, actual resolution of scarring can take up to two years but you will be left with a silvery/white resolution, which again amy fade slowly over time. I would advise that you keep massaging with your oil, as daily massage will help with scar resolution. I hope this helps.
Julie

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear that you're still finding stretch marks are a problems 11 years after you gave birth. By moisturising your skin regularly you have obviously done your best to help the marks to fade - unfortunately there isn't much more you can do.

My best advice would be to change your attitude towards your stretch marks. Rather than worrying about them, focus on camouflaging them as best you can and then forget about them and get on with your life.

I'm assuming your post-pregnancy stretch marks have affected the usual areas - i.e. the tummy, bottom, thighs and breasts - so these areas are usually hidden under clothing - except of course if you go somewhere like the swimming baths, the gym, or the beach. My advice in those situations would be to hide your stretch marks as best you can e.g. wear flattering swim/gym wear that covers as many of your problem areas as possible and then use camouflage make-up where needed, as recommended in the previous posts. Then focus on enjoying yourself!

Remember, lots of women have stretch marks (me included!) - so please don't let them get you down - instead view them as a sign that you've successfully given birth!

If you'd like help with using camouflage make-up, Changing Faces has trained, volunteer Skin Camouflage Practitioners who find the best shade to match your skin tone and then teach you how to apply it, all for free https://www.changingfaces.org.uk/skin-camouflage

The British Association of Skin Camouflage also offers advice and consultations on applying skin camouflage make-up This service may be available on the NHS in your area - ask your GP. If not you would have to pay a fee - however one consultation is usually enough.
http://www.skin-camouflage.net/index.ph ... tions.html

I hope this helps!

Wendy

Good morning,

I agree, you could seek help with your GP and ask if they would consider a NHS skin camouflage referral for stretch marks, otherwise private practitioners will certainly be able to help.

Kind regards,