My Go-To Stretch Mark Oil (That Actually Works!)

The truth is, I was fully prepared to get stretch marks during my pregnancy. In fact, I had long before embraced that these tiger stripes would become another reminder of the amazing capabilities of my body during such an incredible time of change. It was as a teenager I’d experienced them for the first time; first a deep purple that seemed to cover my hips, thighs and breasts, until over the years they transformed into a shade of silvery white that I’d not only learn to accept, but love.

And yet, with a proven genetic disposition for developing stretch marks, at 38 weeks pregnant there’s not one to be seen. You see, at the very beginning of my first trimester I was already committed to applying oils and moisturisers head-to-toe, a habit that would soon become a twice daily tradition. Never before have I ever been so dedicated to a body care routine like I am my skincare. While I was certain stretch marks would be a very normal part of my journey, I was also ready to give my body a fighting chance at reducing their severity.

Introducing the one and only, Weleda Stretch Mark Massage Oil. Every time I mention Weleda over on the ‘Gram, I also welcome in a myriad of comments and messages raving about their truly incredible their products, whether it’s the legendary Skin Food cream that has been a staple in my beauty drawer for goodness knows how long or the Calendula Baby range that parents swear by for their children (proof is in my inbox).

Photography: Brad Jarman
In collaboration with: Weleda

It’s probably no surprise that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the Weleda Stretch Mark Oil in my body care regime given that it’s 100% certified natural and organic, its formula is vegan, dermatologically tested and recommended by midwives, and it’s free from any nasties like synthetic fragrance, colours, preservatives, etc. All in all though, it comes down to my experience; it does what it says it will, which is preventing stretch marks, and visibly increasing skin elasticity and smoothness. Plus, it’s a dream to apply with its pump glass bottle and luxuriously rich formula (so much so that I’ve packed a bottle in my hospital bag). You’ll need a little patience when it comes to skin absorption (and this is just my experience based on the fact that I layer it on like no tomorrow), but I can confirm it doesn’t leave a mark on clothing or bedding, and it feels incredible on the skin even after a whole day or night. Heck, it was just last week a midwife commented on how hydrated my belly felt. Not even kidding.

Goodness knows I may still get them yet as my body will continue to change dramatically over the coming final days of my pregnancy and, perhaps even more so, during the ‘fourth trimester’ after the birth, but I’m determined to love them and continue in my mission of nourishing my body regardless.