People around the world have been searching for centuries for the perfect solution to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Today, more and more people are embracing their scars and stretch marks, particularly with regard to bodily acceptance and the beauty of creating a human life during pregnancy. However, regardless of how they were formed, many women (and men) prefer to minimise their appearance. Body creams and oil for scars in Australia are the most popular options to reduce their appearance.
What Causes Scars & Stretch Marks?
Scars are caused during the healing process following damage to your skin. In order to repair itself, the skin grows new tissue (scar tissue) to close the wound. The main component of scar tissue is collagen, the same protein that comprises your nose. Scars can be caused from surgery, acne or chicken pox, burns, or any other trauma to the skin.
Stretch marks are a form of scars that are caused when the skin stretches to accommodate a growing body or body part. They frequently occur during pregnancy. How severe the stretch marks appear depends heavily on genetics – some women do not get them at all. Severity also depends on how much the skin is stretched and the amount of cortisol in your body. The presence of the stress hormone cortisol is known to weaken the elastic fibres in your skin.
How Can I Reduce the Appearance of My Scars & Stretch Marks?
Many components of lotions, potions, and oils contribute in unique ways in the reduction and treatment of scars. Look for an oil or cream that includes many of the following ingredients in order to maximise its effectiveness:
- Vitamin E aids in hydration of the skin and protects the skin from free radicals, which can cause blemishes and premature ageing.
- Vitamin A increases the skin’s elasticity, which improves the tone and texture of the area surrounding the scar.
- Lavender oil is a natural antiseptic that aids in getting rid of bacteria while still being very gentle on the skin.
- Rosemary oil is also a mild antiseptic that soothes and conditions the skin.
- Chamomile oil is an anti-inflammatory, reducing the redness and inflammation around the scar.
- Calendula oil also acts as an anti-inflammatory. It gently soothes and conditions sensitive skin.
Oils vs. Creams
There are a number of products on the market designed to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Most of these are lotions or creams, but oils are quickly rising in popularity. So, which is better?
There is one clear advantage that oils have over creams when it comes to the treatment of scars. That is, creams are likely to oxidise much more quickly than their oil counterparts since they contain a lot of water. The oxygen molecules in the water allow a degradation of the essential oils and vitamins in the cream, which prevents them from doing the job they’re meant to do!
Oil for scars and stretch marks can be found in your local pharmacy or over the internet. There are many different types of body and face oils that don’t leave you feeling greasy, either. If you want the best option for treating scars and stretch marks, oils are the way to go.