Stretch marks are common and should be normalized. They typically occur after pregnancy, sudden weight changes, or rapid growth, and can appear anywhere on the body including the stomach, bottom, thighs, upper arms, and breasts. This type of scarring develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks may appear. 

The color of stretch marks range from purple and reddish-brown to white depending on how deep the mark is within the layers of your skin. The texture is also dependent on the depth of the mark, ranging from a slight ridge to a deeper indentation. Depending on the severity stretch marks can fade or even disappear over time. 

While they are nothing to be ashamed of, many of us would prefer to avoid them if possible. Because they are harder to treat than to prevent, we recommend prepping the skin for anticipated body changes with ingredients known fo support collagen and elastin synthesis. Such ingredients include hyaluronic acid, msm, zinc, copper, kakadu plum, sea buckthorn and avocado oil. These ingredients can be found in our REFRESH mist, RENEW serum, REPAIR face oil and SMOOTH Body Balm. 

To successfully prevent stretch marks during my pregnancy I used REFRESH head to toe and applied SMOOTH after bathing while my skin was still slightly damp. RENEW and REPAIR I reserved for my face, but should they have been necessary I would have used them to help treat scar tissue. 

Exfoliation, whether with ACTIVATE, SCRUB or a dry brush, may also help to reduce the appearance of existing stretch marks. In addition to resurfacing the superficial layers, exfoliation helps break down fluid retention and increases circulation and cellular turnover. More aggressive treatments include radio frequency, laser, chemical peels and ultrasound. The best and most gentle solution however is always prevention. And not only will regular applications of REFRESH and SMOOTH help keep your skin even in tone and texture, the generous act of self massage has immuno-modulating, musculoskeletal and psychological benefits.

-Jenna, Founder