Will Lotion Prevent Stretch Marks ?

Topical use of olive oil, lemon juice, barmon, cocoa butter and other lotions or creams all have been advocated as a preventive measure or working post treatment. Studies show that their effectiveness in still in debate.

Also the exact cause of striae is uncertain. Studies have shown stretch marks tend to be more extensive in heavier or obese women. Thus the conclusion that watching your weight can be beneficial might seem logical. But regulating your body weight and overall volume will not ensure you will not develop striae.

What we do know is that regular massage is beneficial to the skin. Although it might aid in prevention and improvement of stretch marks this isn't sure either.

Research has shown there are a few lotions that have shown efficacy. One of them is a cream containing Centella asiatica extract, Gotu Kola, alpha tocopherol vitamin E) and collagen-elastin hydrolysates was associated with less women developing stretch marks. Source: PubMed.gov

The brand name of this lotion is Trofolastin. The Trofolastin anti stretch mark lotion is developed and marketed in Spain by Novartis, and is recommended by many Spanish nurses and physicians.

"A daily application of Trofolastin can significantly reduce the likelihood of susceptible women developing stretchmarks during pregnancy".

The bad news is that Trofolastin is unavailable in the US or Australia.

Other research shows vitamin A (Topical Tretinoin, Retinoic Acid) improves early stretch marks. A very popular lotion containing both vitamin A and E as well as Aloe Vera and grapeseed oil is Revitol. You can find more information on this natural product here: Stretch Mark Prevention