For many of you, summer means long, lazy days in the sun. Warm weather, a dip in the water, a little more skin on show, and the pure pleasure of basking under the sun. But do your stretch marks love the sun as much as you do?
Effects of UV rays on the skin
Solar radiation is made up of different types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and the lesser-known UVC. The latter are largely blocked by the ozone layer. But what about the other two?
In small doses, they are essential to the body, as they help synthesise vitamin D, which is necessary for the proper calcification of the human skeleton. Under medical supervision, UV rays can also be beneficial for certain skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema). And of course, sunlight is a natural mood booster – admit it, you always feel more upbeat in summer!
However, in high doses, UV rays can be harmful to the skin. While UVB rays attack the epidermis and cause painful superficial burns – yes, that’s what sunburn is! – UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage:
- Premature skin ageing
- Loss of elasticity
- Localised overproduction of melanin, leading to dark spots
Ultimately, frequent and prolonged sun exposure can lead to irreversible damage: melanoma, a form of skin cancer that is becoming increasingly common. Aggravating factors include genetics and fair skin. It bears repeating: when it comes to UV rays, avoid overexposure and always protect your skin!
Effects of sun on stretch marks
Sun exposure does not cause stretch marks. This is a common misconception. Stretch marks are the result of sudden, intense stretching of the skin, caused by:
- Growth during puberty
- Pregnancy
- Rapid muscle gain from physical activity
- Weight gain (for any reason)
- A medical condition (such as Cushing’s syndrome, for example) or medication (corticosteroids, hormonal treatment)
Under the strain, the collagen fibres in the dermis break down irreversibly. The skin “marks”: fine streaks appear on the stomach, chest, hips, thighs, and also the arms, calves, and lower back.
Red stretch marks
When they first appear, stretch marks are usually red or purplish in colour. At this stage, it is strongly advised to avoid any sun exposure. The skin, dealing with significant inflammation and weakened at a deep level, needs care, not a dose of UV rays. Much like scars – though stretch marks are not scars – fresh stretch marks are at risk of discolouring in the sun… and turning darker.
White stretch marks
Once stretch marks have settled, they take on a pearly white hue. The skin can then be exposed to the sun, provided it is properly protected. Because yes, it remains fragile – especially in the areas where stretch marks have developed, where the skin is less elastic and thinner. What’s more, sun exposure can make your stretch marks appear even more prominent. The reason? Melanin. A tan, which is first and foremost a defence response from your skin, results from a temporary increase in melanin levels (skin pigmentation). But beneath your stretch marks, there is no melanin. Your stretch marks won’t tan, while the rest of your skin takes on a beautiful golden glow. Aesthetically, the contrast between bronzed skin and white streaks can be difficult to embrace…
Tips for enjoying the sun with stretch marks
Protect your skin
We say it time and again: you must protect your skin!
- First of all, avoid prolonged sun exposure and stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day. Save your tanning session for after 5 pm!
- Apply a sunscreen cream, spray or lotion from the very start of your exposure, and reapply every hour and/or after each swim. Choose the product that suits you best in terms of SPF and texture. Pay extra attention to areas affected by stretch marks to ensure they are well protected.
- Don’t hesitate to wear a hat, a t-shirt and/or use a parasol.
- Protect your skin from the inside too, by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and lycopene. Add some colour to your plate!
Treat your stretch marks properly
When it comes to caring for your stretch marks, don’t wait for summer! Look after your skin all year round, especially if you have stretch marks. Our Anti-Stretch Mark Pack is here for exactly that! It contains:
- A scrub, to prepare your skin to receive moisturising and restorative treatments
- An anti-stretch mark cream enriched with cocoa butter and macadamia oil
- A massage oil combining the benefits of sesame, jojoba, avocado and soya, to be used with a handy, easy-to-use slimming tool
A soothing, comforting and gentle routine, suitable even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
