Stretch marks (striae gravidarum) occur when the lower layer of the skin (dermis) stretches rapidly and the collagen and elastin fibers are put under stress. Stretch marks are perhaps the most demonized body change we encounter – and completely unnecessarily. Studies show that stretch marks develop in about 50–90% of pregnant people, making them a completely natural and very common phenomenon. They tell a story of the body's incredible ability to transform and make space for new life.
Why do stretch marks appear?
According to research, three main factors contribute to the formation of stretch marks:
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Genetics: Genetic makeup largely determines the natural structure of the skin, the strength of connective tissue, and elasticity.
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Hormones: Elevated levels of cortisol, relaxin, and estrogen weaken the bonds of elastic fibers in connective tissue, making the skin more susceptible to stretching.
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Mechanical stretching: Rapid changes in body size place subcutaneous tissues under strong tension.
The two stages of stretch marks
Stretch marks develop in two different stages, and their treatment should be approached accordingly:
Red phase (Striae rubrae): The initial stage of scars, when they often appear as reddish, purple, or slightly raised lines. The color is due to dilated blood vessels visible through the thinned skin. At this stage, the skin often feels the most itchy and tight – and this is when the skin benefits most from soothing hydration and massage.
Pale phase (Striae albae): Over time, the scars mature, blood vessels recede, and connective tissue tightens. The scars fade, become pale or silvery, and settle as part of the skin's natural surface.
How to support the skin during stretching?
While stretch marks cannot – and do not need to – be completely prevented, skin elasticity and well-being can be significantly supported both externally and internally. Stretching skin can be dry, itchy, and tight, and proper care brings immediate relief.
1. External treatment and quality vegetable oils
Moisturized and nourished skin stretches better. Cold-pressed vegetable oils in natural cosmetics support the skin's own protective barrier (skin barrier) and prevent moisture evaporation:
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Almond oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis): Rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid, which soften the skin and strengthen its elasticity.
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Rosehip oil (Rosa canina): Contains essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) and natural vitamin A precursors, which support skin cell renewal and softening of scar tissue.
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Arnica (Arnica montana): Known for its sesquiterpene lactones, which have skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Arnica is widely used in scar tissue treatment products (please note that arnica should always be used on intact skin or on a completely healed scar).
2. Internal support
The skin's dermis also needs building blocks from within. Sufficient water intake keeps tissues hydrated, and the vitamin C and zinc found in a varied diet act as essential cofactors in the body's own collagen synthesis.
The power of massage: Combine treatment product and touch
According to research evidence, simply applying cream is not enough for the best results; rather, a combination of regular massage and vegetable oil stimulates skin fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen and elastin) and improves skin microcirculation.
Tip for your routine: Take a gentle moment for yourself in the evenings. Dispense oil and massage it with circular, calm movements onto the skin of your abdomen, thighs, and breasts.
Yummy Mummy Beauty Oil together with Yummy Mummy Beauty Cream provides deep hydration, nutrients, and relief for tight skin. After childbirth, the same products are excellent for supporting recovery and, for example, gentle scar massage and rehabilitation of a completely healed C-section scar.
Gentleness in body image
It is important to remember that the skin changes individually during pregnancy. The number or visibility of stretch marks does not say anything about how well you have taken care of yourself – it is largely about biology and genetics.
Many notice their body image becoming more forgiving and gentle after childbirth. Stretch marks are not flaws, but signs of the body's strength and the tremendous work it has done. Regular skincare and nourishing oils are not just for skin elasticity, but they offer a valuable, conscious moment of pausing with your changing body.
Sources and further reading:
Farahnik, B. et al. (2017). Striae Gravidarum: Risk Factors, Prevention, and Management. International Journal of Dermatology, 56(8), 837–848.
Korgavkar, K., & Wang, F. (2015). Stretch marks during pregnancy: a review of topical prevention. British Journal of Dermatology, 172(3), 606–615.
Timur Taşhan, S., & Kafkasli, A. (2012). The effect of bitter almond oil and massaging on striae gravidarum in primiparae. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 21(11‐12), 1571–1576.
Ud-Din, S. et al. (2016). Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 30(2), 211–222.
