Mask Stretch Marks

Q: I would like to know if getting a tan (using the tanning lotion) will hide the little flaws & stretch marks on my lower half of the body from having my baby?

A: According to the experts on using sunless tanners properly, older stretch marks will often be masked by the use of sunless tanning lotions and sprays. Newer stretch marks will not. You must remember that stretch marks are scars and the newer scars aren’t able to absorb the sunless tanning agents that help to blend discoloration.

You will also want to make sure that you use a good exfoliant before you apply the sunless tanning product to an area with stretch marks. This will help to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and ensure even absorption.

You will likely have better results in covering and masking stretch marks if you use a sunless tanner that contains a bronzing agent as well – a cosmetic that lightly tints the skin’s surface.

As an option (or in conjunction) if you still have problems with the stretch marks’ visibility due to the shiny nature of the marks, you may want to use a small amount of a matte finish foundation or pressed powder on the area of the stretch marks. This won’t be a useful solution for outdoor wear or at the beach or pool, but for an event in a revealing garment, it can make for a smooth look.

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Photo: Tcsaba/Shutterstock

See also:

Do self-tanning creams really work?

I have stretch marks on my thighs. How do I get rid of them?