Puberty, pregnancy and any drastic change in weight can sometimes, unfortunately, result in the scarring of our skin. Stretch marks, those pink (and sometimes purple) streaks, eventually heal in the form of white lines.

Although we can’t get rid of them completely, or prove the effectiveness of all those creams on the market, we’re offering a few suggestions on how the minimize the damage. All you need is to improve skin’s elasticity, by way of optimal hydration. We’ve got four allies, right here…

 

The formula presented here targets facial wrinkles, as well as stretch marks on the body. Why? Because, after many skin studies, the U.S. brand came to the conclusion that these two conditions require the exact same treatment: stimulate collagen and repair the skin barrier. Upon testing it out, this lightweight and non-sticky formula visibly improved the appearance of our skin. No wonder a tube is sold every 1.6 minutes around the world!

 

 



 

Rich in essential oils and plant extracts, it only makes sense that this gem will smell divinely of nature. Rose, immortelle, chamomile and lemongrass come together to smooth the skin and diminish the appearance of stretch marks. But there's more: traces of Cucurbita pepo, a plant species which includes squash, linger to prevent the onset of new stretch marks. However, while the gel texture may be refreshing for some, it may seem a bit sticky to others.

 

The oil envelops the skin, leaving behind a satiny feel.  What is behind this softness? Rose oil and essential fatty acids that have the power to improve skin’s elasticity! Thus, it directly targets stretch marks, both existing and emerging. Also, this moisturizing and antioxidant-rich formula nourishes our skin as it ages. Simply apply in the morning and evening, and you’ll see: you’ll be hooked!

 

 

This skincare find, the first creation of the luxe French brand now popular the world over, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The dry oil first appeared on pharmacy shelves in the early ‘90s, and was a fast success, thanks to its effectiveness in treating stretch mark. Great for the body, as well as the face and hair, it has a memorable scent of rose and orange blossom. Two decades later, around the world, a bottle is now sold every six seconds!

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi Purpose Care, $45 (100mL) at The Bay and select pharmacies.

Did you know? Other than rapid weight loss and gain, high levels of cortisol in the body also promote the appearance of stretch marks. Also known as the stress hormone, it affects the production of collagen, which heals the skin. Pregnancy, certain diseases and exercise also promote an overproduction of cortisol. So, for beauty’s sake, simply take it easy!