During pregnancy, women often develop stretch marks (striae) - stripes of burgundy and pale pink colors on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and even on the chest. Their appearance is caused by the unpreparedness of the skin for hyperextension with an increase in the tummy and total body weight. Of course, it is easier to prevent stretch marks than to treat them later. But what to do if stretch marks have already appeared? Traditional medicine and hardware cosmetology will help in the fight against them. You can read more about how to remove stretch marks after childbirth here.
One of the ways to eliminate stretch marks is special creams for stretch marks after childbirth. They will prevent the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy and reduce or remove defects that have already appeared after childbirth. The selected product must meet certain requirements:
- composition: the cream must contain components that increase skin elasticity, for example, collagen and elastin;
- safety: the product should not adversely affect the body;
- manufacturer: it is desirable that the manufacturer of the cream is well-known and trusted.
Composition of creams
In order to get rid of stretch marks, you need to understand how they appear. Stretch marks occur when the inner layer of skin breaks. Such breaks are formed when there is a lack of collagen and elastin in the skin - substances that are responsible for elasticity. Therefore, these components should be the main components of the cream. In addition to increasing the ability to stretch, you need to take care of nourishing the skin and increasing its moisture content.
Thus, the optimal cream should contain:
- collagen and elastin to increase skin elasticity or stimulators of their production;
- nutrients to maintain natural moisture and elasticity of the skin: B vitamins, vitamin A (retinol), unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic, linolenic, oleic) in the form of various oils, seaweed;
- antioxidants to protect against negative environmental influences and stress: vitamin E, C in the form of wheat germ oil;
- regeneration activating substances;
- blood circulation stimulants.
How to choose the right cream for stretch marks?
When choosing a cream, you need to consider important nuances:
- the cream must be safe: it must be indicated on the tube or in the instructions that the product can be used during lactation;
- hypoallergenic: it is important that the composition does not cause allergies in mother and child (in the case of breastfeeding, the components of the cream can enter the baby’s body with breast milk);
- minimum smell and color: fragrances and dyes, of course, add attractiveness to the cream, but can cause allergies in the baby or the susceptible body of the mother;
- It is advisable to use a sample first: you need to check how the skin will react to the composition of the product, whether there will be allergies or other unwanted reactions.
How to use
The instructions for each product will indicate recommendations for use - how often to apply, what course of treatment, whether accompanying procedures are needed (peeling, etc.). For most products, the method of use is the same:
- the cream is applied with massage movements twice a day in a thin layer until completely absorbed onto problem areas (abdomen, thighs, buttocks, chest, and if necessary, forearms);
- period of use: within 2 – 3 months;
- Apply the product to clean skin (preferably after a shower or bath);
- If a caesarean section was performed, no cream is applied to the scar area until it has healed.
Cream rating
There is no universal remedy suitable for everyone. Although our skin has the same structure, it reacts to cream therapy differently for everyone. Therefore, the optimal remedy for yourself is selected individually, depending on the effect. The presented rating contains information about the action of each component so that you can get an idea of the effectiveness of the product.
Top 10 creams against stretch marks:
1. Cream “Mama Comfort”
The “Mama Comfort” line of products is designed specifically for pregnant and nursing mothers. The composition is specially designed for particularly sensitive skin during the postpartum period. The cream can also increase the elasticity of the skin of pregnant women. Price
Components:
- hyaluronic acid: regulates the water-fat balance, maintaining the optimal amount of fluid for the skin in the intercellular space;
- horse chestnut extract: blood circulation stimulator, enhances skin nutrition and regeneration;
- oil extract: rich in fatty acids to improve skin elasticity;
- innovative complex REGU-STRETCH for correcting the skin's ability to stretch.
2. Cream “9 months”
Like the “Mama Comfort” series, the “9 months” line is designed for expectant mothers and includes not only stretch mark cream, but also products for the care and protection of the skin of the whole body. This cream not only helps prevent, but also actively fights stretch marks that have already formed. Price
Components:
- soybean hydrolysates, elastin: supply the skin with the necessary substances to maintain its elasticity;
- antioxidants: echinacea extract, wheat germ oil to protect the skin from harmful effects and stress;
- grapefruit oil: stimulates blood circulation and also helps eliminate fat deposits and cellulite;
- complex of oils: supplies the skin with nutrients.
3. Mustella double action cream
The dual action of the product ensures the prevention and correction of stretch marks. Effectively fights existing stretch marks and prevents the appearance of new ones. Price
Components:
- elastoregulator, arabinogalactan, and lupeol substances specially developed by Mustella provide increased elasticity;
- Japanese sophora, a complex of trace elements responsible for regeneration;
- Shea butter and avocado peptides have a nourishing effect.
4. Pregnacare cream
Cream for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks (striae) that occur during and after pregnancy. The components of this product not only eliminate existing stretch marks, but also actively fight new defects, since they contain a stimulator of elastin production. Price
Compound:
- aloe vera, panthenol nourish the skin;
- allantoin, evening primrose oil promotes regeneration;
- vitamin E, calendula extract, soy glycine act as antioxidants;
- Lemon oil stops the breakdown of collagen and elastin and stimulates their production.
5. Cream from Avent
A popular anti-stretch mark cream in Europe.
Contains natural oils rich in minerals, vitamins and amino acids, plant extracts, including extracts of sea plants and algae. The light, citrus-based scent contains notes of lemon and grapefruit, known for their ability to ease symptoms of nausea during pregnancy. All Philips Avent cosmetics have undergone strict dermatological testing.
The special formula of Avent cream helps relieve fatigue and increase skin elasticity, preventing the appearance of stretch marks. This nourishing, non-greasy massage cream helps improve skin elasticity, moisturizes and softens it. Hypoallergenic. Price
Active components:
- shea seed oil has a softening effect;
- extract of sea plants and algae increases skin elasticity;
- Papaya and sweet almond oil (purified of potentially allergenic free proteins) relieve congestion and promote fluid removal.
6. Cream for stretch marks “Vichy”
Reduces the risk of stretch marks. Helps improve skin elasticity and significantly reduce existing stretch marks. Price
Components of the cream for stretch marks after childbirth "Vichy":
- Vichy thermal water: stimulates skin regeneration;
- glycerin: retains skin moisture, preventing loss of elasticity;
- bassia oil: activates collagen synthesis and metabolic processes in skin cells.
7. Phytolastil gel or ampoules from Lierac
The French manufacturer says the product is 85% effective against all types of stretch marks – both “old” and “new”. The basis of the current complex is extract of horsetail, ivy and mantle. These substances contain flavonoids, which stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Price
Apply morning and evening with light massaging movements to problem areas for 8 weeks. The course can be extended. The result depends on the care with which you use this product. Do not under any circumstances interrupt the course you have started.
8. Clarins Stretch Mark Control Cream
The product is developed on the basis of plant components that help eliminate skin defects and provide skin nutrition. Price
Components:
- centella asiatica, crowberry berries activate the processes of regeneration and production of collagen and elastin;
- oil extract nourishes the skin.
9. Cream "Solaris" Dr. Nona
The product was created not only to eliminate stretch marks, it is also used for many skin diseases (from scars, burns, stretch marks, for healing tattoos and any skin damage). Bio-organomineral complex, plant wax emulsion, sunflower oil extract, avocado, jojoba, aloe, orange, thyme, rosemary extracts give the effect of rejuvenation and regeneration of the skin, saturate it with the necessary substances to increase elasticity and retain moisture. Application: apply a thin layer to damp skin. Price
10. Intensive Anti-Stretch Marks Cream from Collistar
The action of the product is based on blocking elastase, an enzyme that breaks down elastin. This effect is possible thanks to a complex of 4 amino acids. The cream also contains hyaluronic acid and silk proteins, thanks to which active regeneration and preservation of fluid in the intercellular space occurs. Price
More creams: Clarins, Biotherm, Ives Roche, Oriflame, Venus, Green Mama, Roc, Eveline...
P.S. Cream No. 11 “Mangosteen”
- Relieves stretch marks;
- Returns elasticity to the skin;
- Tightens the skin;
- Restores the integrity of the skin at the cellular level;
- Moisturizes, nourishes and tones;
- Prevents the appearance of stretch marks;
- Does not cause irritation or allergies;
- Has an anti-inflammatory effect.
You can find out more about the cream on this page.
And here you can find out how Anastasia removed stretch marks after pregnancy:
Hello girls)) I didn’t think that the problem of stretch marks would affect me too, and I’ll also write about it))) But there’s nowhere to go, so I’m writing here: how I got rid of stretch marks after pregnancy. I will be very glad if my method helps you too... read more
Anti-stretch mark cream will be optimally used after childbirth in combination with a good nutrition for the skin: walnuts, fish, low-fat dairy products, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, dried apricots.
Hello girls! Today I will tell you how I managed to get in shape, lose 20 kilograms, and finally get rid of the terrible complexes of fat people. I hope you find the information useful!
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Unfortunately, not a single woman in labor is immune from the appearance of unaesthetic stretch marks - striae. The fact is that stretch marks appear due to strong stretching of one of the skin layers, causing them to tear and lose elasticity. The result is red or light pink scars, which most often form after childbirth on the belly, thighs or breasts of the new mother. However, fortunately, you can fight stretch marks. And a special stretch mark cream will help us with this, which is actually intended to solve this problem. In today's publication, we will familiarize ourselves with the basic rules for choosing a cream for stretch marks and tell you how to use it to achieve the best result.
Let's start with the fact that it is recommended to use cream for stretch marks even before childbirth, that is, during pregnancy, in order to prevent the formation of stretch marks. From 2-3 months of pregnancy, it is recommended to use anti-stretch mark cream daily so that your skin does not lose its firmness and elasticity. However, in addition to stretch mark cream, it is very important to nourish your skin from the inside. Vitamins E, A and C, fish, protein products and water will help you with this, without which, as you know: “it’s neither here nor there.” In other words, a balanced diet and taking vitamins during pregnancy and after childbirth will help get your skin in order much faster than using a cream, but you shouldn’t neglect this cosmetic product either. Therefore, let's figure out how to choose the right anti-stretch mark cream and what components should be included in its composition.
How to choose a quality anti-stretch mark cream?
Let's start with the fact that a high-quality anti-stretch mark cream cannot cost a penny and be sold in markets or subway kiosks. Therefore, in order to achieve maximum effect, you will have to pay a decent amount. And this is perhaps the only drawback of the stretch mark cream. Well, as for cheap counterfeits and dubious anti-stretch mark products from little-known manufacturers, be extremely careful here: in addition to zero results, you can develop allergies or dermatitis. After all, there is no guarantee that such a cream for stretch marks contains truly natural ingredients. Therefore, we recommend that you purchase anti-stretch mark cream from trusted stores or pharmacies.
Expectation and birth of a child is the brightest and happiest time for a woman. However, the appearance of such delicate problems as birth marks on certain parts of the body worries many modern mothers. Cosmetic industry gurus offer women the best products for the natural beauty of their skin while taking care of their unborn baby!
Popular "cheats"
Let's start the review by announcing the brands of creams that have become widely known, but are not worthy of a presence in our rating for objective reasons. So, THEY DIDN'T GET INTO THE TOP:
Avon stretch mark cream is a useless purchase, judging by the numerous reviews from disappointed customers. Coupled with an extensive allergic rash, its use leaves only negative impressions. The second competitor from “Rock” was ahead of the competitor in terms of quality, but its use during breastfeeding and childbearing is strictly prohibited by the manufacturer itself, apparently due to its unacceptable “harmfulness”...
Avent - the best-rated anti-stretch mark cream from America
Approximate price: 680 rubles for a tube of 200 ml
What stands out: relieves itching that periodically occurs as a result of stretching of the abdominal skin
Why in the ranking: algae, almonds and exotic lacuta in the composition - everything for skin elasticity. The effective formula is safe during breastfeeding
Our rating: 10/10 for a proven American brand
Customer reviews:
“...on the 5th month of use after giving birth, my haircuts smoothed out almost completely, they became shallow and the color changed to flesh-colored (otherwise they were purple). I liked this cream. »
“...it’s so fragrant! Not at all greasy, I used it under my clothes throughout my pregnancy. The result is that not a single stretch mark appeared on my body. »
Venus is the best fitness cream in the rating
Approximate price: 730 rubles for a tube of 150 ml
What stands out: has a lifting effect
Why in the ranking: Loaded with soy and vitamin E, the cream combats skin breaks and sagging. It tightens the contours so that many mothers note a significant increase in skin elasticity compared to its “pre-pregnancy” state!
Our rating: 9/10. A tangible result comes no earlier than six months of intensive use; for a long wait we steal 1 point from “Venus”
Customer reviews about Venus stretch mark cream:
“...on the tummy and chest the skin became elastic, but stretch marks never appeared)) But I used Venus throughout my pregnancy and after that too...”
“...the consistency of the cream is great, it’s perfect for prevention! Helped me..."
Mama Donna - the best-rated Italian cream for stretch marks
Approximate price: 550 rubles for a tube of 200 ml
What stands out: ensures complete safety for the fetus - does not affect the inner layers of the skin
Why in the ranking: wheat, rice bran oils, E and PP vitamins superficially moisturize the skin, preventing tissue stretching
Our rating:10/10. The popular cream from the Chicco brand is approved by tens of thousands of Russian mothers
Customer reviews:
“... any cream, of course, is not a panacea for such a misfortune, but most of my stretch marks “went away” after a 3-month course of “Mama Donna” ...”
“...I recommend it, girls! First he helped my friend, then he helped me too - not a single stretch mark..."
Lierac phytolastil is a good gel for the prevention of stretch marks
Approximate price: 1570 rubles for a tube of 200 ml
What stands out: has an anti-cellulite effect
Why in the ranking: plant flavonoids increase cellular vitality, relieving the skin of stretch marks and scars. Fights both characteristic age-related skin changes and defects caused by hormonal changes
Our rating: 8/10. The gel leaves marks on clothes, which makes it difficult to use, and it is more suitable for prevention, but not for actively combating existing stretch marks
Customer reviews:
“...the elasticity of the skin really increases, I smeared this gel on my tummy and now I don’t know what stretch marks are. »
“...very expensive, but this is the only cream, gel that really copes with the problem of stretch marks. I am pleased…"
Contractubex is the best-rated gel for stretch marks and postpartum scars from Germany
Approximate price: 580 rubles for a 20-gram tube
What stands out: Not only local application of the gel is effective, but also warm baths with the addition of Contractubex
Why in the ranking: allantoin, Luca Serae extract and sodium heparin are not absorbed into the blood, which means the drug is absolutely safe for the fetus and the expectant mother. These same components regenerate skin processes at the cellular level, which helps to “tighten” even old stretch marks.
Our rating: 10/10. A German manufacturer has created a universal product that specifically combats skin imperfections and problems of young mothers
Customer reviews:
"…Wow! I didn’t even think about contractubex, BUT the effect is stunning. My old stretch marks literally disappeared after using this miracle cream...”
“...I get all the products from Merz I really like it, and “Kontraktubeks” helped me overcome the hated postpartum “scars” on the belly, sides and chest – 5+. »
Eveline is the best rated fat burning serum
Approximate price: 215 rubles for a tube of 200 ml
What stands out: returns natural tone to the skin
Why in the ranking: caffeine, fat-burning ginger, retinol and a complex of related vitamins, included in the list of active ingredients, not only remove stretch marks, but also “break” excess fat cells, moisturize thanks to kelp extract
Our rating: 10/10. Primary results in the form of elastic skin and changes in the color of stretch marks are noticeable after a week of use - the serum deserves the highest score for its lightning-fast action!
Customer reviews:
“... stretch marks fade from its use, but you need to apply it for at least a couple of months, less - you won’t notice the effect...”
“...this serum has an amazing smell, the price is reasonable, the result is not quick, but, in my opinion, it is a good alternative to surgery...”
Sanosan - the best eco-cream against stretch marks in the rating
Approximate price: 360 rubles for a tube of 100 ml
What stands out: the authoritative OKO-TEST gave this cream the highest quality score
Why in the ranking: wheat protein, olive oil and environmental friendliness of the product make it highly effective and, most importantly, safe. Saturates cells with vitamins, gives elasticity
Our rating: 10/10. German quality at a ridiculous price? This is Sanosan
Customer reviews:
“...greasy and the smell is not so great, but the result is pleasing. I have been using Sanosan since I was 5 months old. pregnancy and after the birth of my daughter - everything is ok, not a single stretch mark..."
“...I liked the dense texture of the cream, it absorbs well, it didn’t completely remove old stretch marks, but made them invisible, generally ok...”
Which stretch mark cream is best to buy??
The choice of a drug to prevent the appearance of stretch marks and “smooth them out” is based on three factors characterizing the cream:
- Efficiency
- Safety
- Skin care
Depending on her personal wishes, a young mother will be able to choose the best anti-stretch mark cream for herself at the best price, which will respond to individual requests. And the proposed rating only helps to navigate the variety of innovative cosmetics.