WHAT ARE STRETCH MARKS?
Stretch marks, or striae, form when the skin stretches faster than it can keep up with. This rapid stretching can cause tiny tears in the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in thin lines or marks that are often red, purple, or silvery-white in colour. Common areas include the belly, hips, breasts, and thighs.
Did you know? When stretch marks are purple, red, or pink they are considered young. These are the blood vessels underneath the skin showing through the tears in the dermis. At this point, the stretch marks have not yet matured which typically takes between 6-12 months. After this, they will start to go silver, white, or translucent and can be a lot harder to treat.
While genetics can play a role, there are ways to care for your skin during pregnancy to help it stay hydrated, nourished, and resilient.
CAN YOU PREVENT STRETCH MARKS?
While it’s not possible to guarantee that stretch marks won’t appear, consistent care can make a big difference. Supporting your skin’s elasticity and moisture levels gives it the best chance to stretch more comfortably and recover well.
KEEP SKIN HYDRATED
Hydration starts from within. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your skin soft and supple, while eating a nutrient-rich diet can promote healthy skin. Focus on foods that are high in:
+ Vitamin C: Helps with collagen production, found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens.
+ Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and spinach.
+ Zinc: Supports healing and repair, found in pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and whole grains.
MOISTURISE DAILY
Moisturising is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support your skin during pregnancy. Massage a nourishing product like our Stretch Mark Oil into areas prone to stretch marks—your belly, hips, thighs, and breasts. This luxurious oil deeply hydrates, improves elasticity, and helps your skin stretch more comfortably.
Make it a daily ritual by massaging the oil in circular motions. Not only does this hydrate, but it also boosts circulation, which is essential for healthy skin.
EXFOLIATE GENTLY
Regular exfoliation can help your skin absorb moisture better by removing dead skin cells. Use a gentle, pregnancy-safe scrub like the Bump Scrub 2–3 times a week to reveal soft, smooth skin and promote cell renewal. Exfoliating also gives your skin that beautiful, healthy glow.
STAY ACTIVE
Safe, low-impact exercises during pregnancy—such as walking, yoga, or swimming—can improve blood flow and keep your skin healthy. Staying active also helps manage weight gain, which reduces additional stress on the skin. Always consult your doctor or midwife before starting any new exercise routine.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, so it’s important to protect it from environmental stressors like UV rays. Wear SPF when you’re outside and opt for lightweight, protective clothing to prevent skin damage. This will also help prevent discolouration in areas with stretch marks.
CELEBRATE YOUR BODY
Stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy for many women, representing your body’s incredible ability to grow and nurture life. While it’s empowering to care for your skin, it’s just as important to embrace the changes your body goes through on this journey.
10 FACTS YOU’LL WANT TO KNOW.
1. Stretch marks form when the skin stretches or shrinks too quickly, causing the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin to tear. This often happens during pregnancy, growth spurts, weight fluctuations, or muscle building.
2. Up to 90% of pregnant women develop stretch marks, particularly during their third trimester when the baby grows rapidly, putting pressure on the skin.
3. Stretch marks can occur in anyone, not just during pregnancy. Puberty, rapid weight gain or loss, and even genetics can make stretch marks a reality for men and women alike.
4. Hormones, especially during pregnancy, increase skin sensitivity and reduce collagen production, making skin more prone to developing stretch marks.
5. If your family members experienced stretch marks, you’re more likely to develop them too. Skin tone also influences how visible they are. On lighter skin, they may appear red or purple, while on darker skin, they may look lighter or silvery.
6. Hydrated, nourished skin is more elastic and better equipped to handle stretching. Drinking water and eating foods high in collagen-supporting vitamins (like Vitamin C and Zinc) can reduce the likelihood of severe stretch marks.
7. Stretch marks fade naturally over time. While they may appear red, purple, or dark brown initially, they often lighten to a pale, silvery tone as they heal.
8. Stretch marks are technically scars that form in the dermis layer of the skin, which is why they can’t be removed entirely. Skincare and treatments focus on improving their appearance, not erasing them.
9. Consistent moisturising with a product designed to support elasticity (like our Stretch Mark Oil) can reduce the severity and appearance of stretch marks. Hydrated skin is less likely to tear during rapid stretching.
10. Stretch marks are a natural part of life for many people and shouldn’t be seen as a flaw. They’re a beautiful reminder of your body’s strength, growth, and adaptability.
Want to learn more about pregnancy skincare? Explore our full range of pregnancy-safe products and discover how to keep your skin feeling amazing during every stage of motherhood.