Stretch marks may not pose a health risk, but they can have a profound emotional impact—especially during the postpartum period. A growing body of research is now exploring how natural remedies, like extra virgin olive oil, may help reduce their appearance.
What Are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks, or striae, are indented, discolored streaks that often appear on the abdomen, breasts, buttocks, hips, or upper arms. They occur when the skin stretches rapidly, typically during pregnancy, adolescence, or significant weight fluctuations.
In their early stages, stretch marks are often pink, red, blue, or even black, depending on skin tone and individual factors. Over time, these marks can fade but may not disappear completely. Though generally painless, they can lead to emotional distress, impacting body image and self-esteem.
A 2024 Study on Olive Oil and Postpartum Stretch Marks
In a 2024 study conducted by Nurwendah and colleagues, researchers investigated the effects of olive oil on postpartum stretch marks in 45 women receiving care at the Karang Mulya Community Health Center.
Participants were divided into three groups:
- A control group (no intervention)
- A group using a standard moisturizing cream
-
An experimental group applying olive oil topically
All participants were on postpartum day 6 at the start of the study. The intervention lasted for 14 days, during which the olive oil and cream were applied twice daily. Women with dermatologic conditions, endocrine disorders, or known sensitivities to the treatment materials were excluded.
Key Findings:
-
Olive Oil Group:
At baseline, participants had an average stretch mark severity score of 3.87 (SD = 1.407). After 14 days of applying olive oil twice daily, this dropped to 1.07 (SD = 0.799)—a 72.4% reduction in severity.
-
Moisturizer Group:
Starting with an average severity score of 4.6 (SD = 0.986), this group saw a modest reduction to 3.6—just a 21.7% improvement after twice-daily application.
-
Control Group:
No measurable change was observed.
Researchers believe the effectiveness of olive oil may stem from its unique composition—particularly its high levels of vitamin E, polyphenols, and squalene, which support skin repair and regeneration. While the study was small, the results are encouraging and warrant further research on olive oil’s role in dermatology.
Additionally, in a 2022 randomized controlled trial involving 156 first-time pregnant women, researchers found that applying olive oil twice daily from the third trimester until delivery significantly reduced both the severity and progression of stretch marks compared to no treatment. This suggests that consistent use of olive oil may offer protective benefits during a critical window of skin stretching.
How to Use Olive Oil in Your Beauty Routine
Olive oil isn’t just for the kitchen—it’s a versatile and natural addition to your skincare regimen. High-quality extra virgin olive oil delivers powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and skin-nourishing nutrients. Here are a few ways to incorporate it into your routine:
- Daily facial or body moisturizer
- Natural makeup remover
- Anti-aging night treatment
- Lip exfoliator (mixed with coarse sugar)
- Cuticle softener
- Hair conditioner or split-end treatment
- Scalp hydration treatment
- Shaving oil
- Moisturizing foot soak
-
Massage oil carrier with essential oils
For best results, always opt for a high-phenolic extra virgin olive oil, such as Kyoord, to ensure maximum skin benefits. And as with any new product, do a patch test to check for sensitivity.
