Stretch Marks: How to reduce them & what actually works?
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Time to read 4 min
Stretch marks — medically known as striae distensae — are linear scars that develop when the skin stretches beyond its capacity to adapt. They’re common across pregnancy, puberty, weight change, and hormonal shifts. Though not dangerous, they can be emotionally complex, especially when solutions often feel ineffective or overhyped.
We explore what’s happening beneath the skin, what’s clinically supported, and why a multi-oil formulation like Saya Argan Body Oil deserves consideration in any effective stretch mark care plan.
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks form when skin stretches faster than the body can produce enough collagen to support it. As the outer layer expands- often due to pregnancy, rapid weight gain, puberty, or muscle growth- the dermis (middle layer of skin) tears at a microscopic level. These tears scar as they heal, creating visible lines on the surface.
They often appear as jagged lines or ripples , and their colour can vary depending on both skin tone and the age of the mark.
Newer stretch marks tend to be red, pink, purple, or even dark brown. These are called striae rubrae , they reflect inflammation and blood flow beneath the surface.
Older stretch marks fade over time into silvery or white lines — referred to as striae albae — as inflammation settles and the tissue scars.
Stretch Marks Commonly Appear On:
Abdomen
Breasts
Hips
Thighs
Upper arms & lower back
Stretch marks can be isolated or widespread, fine or wide, and their appearance depends on how quickly the skin stretched.
Why Do Stretch Marks Happen?
Stretch marks form during periods of rapid physical change . The most common triggers include:
Pregnancy
Puberty
Sudden weight gain or loss
Muscle growth (e.g. from strength training)
Corticosteroid use
Endocrine conditions (e.g. PCOS, Cushing’s Syndrome)
Not everyone develops stretch marks, which often leads people to ask…
Is It Genetic?
Partially. Genetics can influence your skin’s elasticity, collagen structure, and hormone sensitivity — all of which affect how likely you are to develop stretch marks.
However, genetics are not destiny. Evidence suggests that topical support, skin hydration, and early care during high-risk periods can make a significant difference in severity and appearance.
What Actually Works to Reduce Stretch Marks
While there are plenty of creams that promise to erase stretch marks, only a few ingredients are backed by real results. One of the most consistently effective? Cold-pressed botanical oils — especially those rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
These oils don’t just sit on the surface. They help:
Keep the skin deeply hydrated
Improve elasticity (so it stretches without tearing)
Support the skin’s repair process
One of the most studied options is Argan Oil.
So What’s the Evidence?
A clinical study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging found that daily use of argan oil significantly improved skin elasticity and hydration over 60 days. The skin became visibly firmer, more supple, and better able to adapt to physical changes — key factors in reducing the likelihood of stretch marks forming or worsening.
This is why Saya Argan Body Oil uses cold-pressed Moroccan argan oil as its base — backed by science, not hype — along with other skin-supportive oils like rosehip, jojoba, and evening primrose.
Together, they help keep the skin strong, resilient, and visibly smoother over time
Why the Full Oil Blend Matters (Not Just Argan)
Saya Argan Body Oil isn’t a single-ingredient product. While cold-pressed argan oil is the star — clinically shown to improve skin elasticity — the formula includes a multi-oil blend , each chosen for its distinct functional benefits. Together, they address hydration, structural repair, and skin tone.
Key Oils in the Blend:
Argan Oil
Rich in linoleic acid, vitamin E & squalene. Supports elasticity, barrier function & healing.Jojoba Oil
Mimics skin’s natural sebum. Enhances absorption, seals in moisture & calms inflammation.Camellia Seed Oil
High in oleic acid. Softens texture, improves flexibility, and absorbs quickly.Rosehip Oil
Contains trans-retinoic acid, a vitamin A derivative. Known for reducing scars and improving skin tone.Macadamia Oil
Contains palmitoleic acid, supports mature or damaged skin, encourages regeneration.Evening Primrose Oil
Rich in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), which improves skin structure and reduces inflammation.
This multi-oil strategy is important. Stretch marks are a deep dermal concern — and it takes a coordinated approach to improve them. Barrier hydration alone isn’t enough. The skin needs lipid replenishment, antioxidant support, and elasticity repair — all of which this blend targets.
How to Use It
To see results, how you apply your product matters as much as what’s in it.
Step-by-step:
When to Start : Begin as early as possible in pregnancy, puberty, or body change. Prevention is easier than reversal.
Frequency : Apply 1–2 times daily.
Timing : Post-shower is ideal either when skin is warm and damp or on dry skin.
Method : Massage into targeted areas with firm, circular motion for 2–3 minutes. This improves microcirculation and helps actives absorb deeper into the dermis. Based on personal preference, you could also mix Argan Body Oil with Hand and Body Lotion.
How Long Before You See Results?
Skin takes time to regenerate. Stretch marks form in the dermis — deeper than most topical actives can reach immediately. However, consistent care shows results.
Typical timeline:
Weeks 2–4 : Skin feels more supple and deeply hydrated
Weeks 5–8 : Red or purple marks begin to fade in intensity
Weeks 9–12+ : Older marks may flatten and lighten; skin tone appears more even
What Doesn’t Work as Well as You Think
Cocoa Butter- A cult favorite, but there’s little evidence it improves skin elasticity or reduces stretch marks long-term.
Trentinoin- Can help fade early red or purple marks, but isn’t safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Firming Creams- Often give a temporary smoothing effect thanks to silicones, but don’t address deeper dermal repair.
Laser Therapy- Clinically effective for some, but costly, time-intensive, and not always suitable for all skin tones or stages of scarring.
While these treatments have their place, many fall short when it comes to accessibility, long-term results, or safety during key life stages like pregnancy. For most, a consistent, proven topical approach is a smarter first step — especially when started early.
Final Takeaway
Stretch marks are normal — but if you want to reduce their appearance, the most effective approach is consistent care with ingredients that support how the skin actually works.
Saya Argan Body Oil offers a smart, well-formulated solution using ingredients backed by both tradition and science. It’s fast-absorbing, pregnancy-safe, and designed to support elasticity, hydration, and long-term repair — without unnecessary fillers or heavy textures.
