Scars and stretch marks – nearly every woman has them, and many endeavour to diminish them. But which product is the right one for the job?
The BEAUTYDIRECTORY team has recently been trialling products that double as scarring solutions; read on to hear our thoughts.
Bio-Oil – Zoë
What it is: a specialist skincare oil designed to help improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
My experience:
This product is so amazing I have been bathing in it. Literally.
I have been adding Bio Oil to any baths I take, or applying it to damp skin after the shower, and not only does my skin feel luxuriously soft but I have genuinely noticed a reduced appearance of stretch marks and old scars. I do believe patience is key for this product but I can’t wait to continue to use Bio Oil over the upcoming months as it has shown to improve the appearance of scars in 92% of subjects after eight weeks (!) – not a long time in the scheme of things; plus, it’s the perfect product to start using if you’re worried about any stretch marks or scars in the lead up to bikini season (something I am less than thrilled about).
Paula’s Choice Clinical Scar Reducing Serum – Tiarne
What it is: A healing serum that reduces the appearance of scars, surgical wounds, burns, cuts and scrapes.
My experience: I have really enjoyed using this product! While it feels slightly thick at first, it easily absorbs into the skin, leaving it feeling super silky and soft all day long. I have a bit of scarring from old pimples so I was excited to try this out, and so far I have been very impressed with the results! I’ve found that it’s reduced a bit of redness and inflammation, as well as evened out my skin tone. It also helps prevent and reduce the inflammation of scars on newly healed wounds. I am excited to continue trying this out!
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks – Tash
What it is: A body lotion enriched with collagen, elastic, argan oil and shea butter to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
My experience: I have recently noticed some stretch marks around my lower body so was keen to try the Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks when it landed on my desk. After applying, the skin felt instantly hydrated and felt more comfortable. I have definitely noticed a visible improvement in the overall area, my skin tone looks more even and my skin feels more supple.
BIODERMA Cicabio Pommade – Jamie
What it is: A soothing ointment designed to assist skin during its various stages of epidermal reconstruction and repair major skin damage such as peeling, laser treatment, dry skin and scarring.
My experience: The Pommade has a thick consistency however it glides on easily and melts into the skin nicely. It leaves a protective layer on the skin so it is perfect for both day and night time application. I focused this product on some shaving scars on my legs that I have acquired over the years and I am impressed! My scars have faded in colour already and the pommade felt so silky on my skin. This product is now a part of my daily skin care routine!
Environ A, C & E Body Oil – Jess
What it is: A body oil with a high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants designed to give the skin a healthy appearance.
My experience: I love a good quality, hydrating body oil – and that’s exactly what this one is. I have a lot of stretch marks over my hips and thighs and have tried many body oils in the pursuit of getting rid of them. While I've come to the conclusion they’ll never fully be gone, regularly using this body oil has slightly diminished their appearance. The main benefit of this oil is the amazing hydration it gives. Especially in this time of year where my skin is still dry from winter but it's warm enough to wear shorts and skirts again, this oil has been great in getting my skin back in shape.
Alpha-H Vitamin A 0.5%b – Emily
What it is: Alpha-H Vitamin A 0.5% is an antioxidant skin renewal treatment that utilises the exfoliating benefits of Vitamin A in a hydrating serum.
My experience: I have used this serum every evening for a few weeks now and can already see a difference in the texture of my skin. I find it is best applied to freshly cleansed and slightly damp skin.
I tend to get hormonal breakouts around my chin area which has left some scarring over the years. After a week of using the Alpha-H Vitamin A 0.5% I have noticed a huge reduction in the appearance of my scars. I’m so impressed with the results so far! This will definitely be a go-to in my nighttime skincare routine.