Stretch marks, or striae graviae, are scars which appear on skin which has been over-stretched. Stretch marks occur in the dermis, or middle layer of the skin. This elastic layer is fortified with fibers known as collagen and elastins that allow the skin to stretch and snap back into shape. When this layer is continuously stretched over a long period of time, the elasticity can break down. In areas where these break downs occur, the skin tries to reinforce itself by increasing the amount of collagen. The result is the scars we call stretch marks. They usually emerge as purple or reddish marks that fade to shallow gray or white scars, although some people report that their stretch marks begin gray or white and change to purplish-red.
Over 50% of pregnant women get stretch marks during pregnancy, usually during the third trimester and sometimes earlier. It can be due to genetics, excessive weight gain in a short period or overly dry and stretching skin. They affect women of all ages, sizes and ethnic backgrounds. (They affect men, adolescents and non-pregnant women as well).
Does pregnancy really change a woman's skin care needs?TOP
Yes, in most cases it does. The shift in hormones means that many women find that their normal skin care regimen no longer works well, because their skin becomes oilier, drier or more sensitive while pregnant. In addition, the tremendous abdominal growth you experience during pregnancy (and, to a lesser extent, breast and hip enlargement, too) causes itching, and often leads to stretch marks. Over 50% of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, and pregnancy is one of the leading causes of stretch marks.
The Million Dollar question!!! Various theories exist on this subject, suggesting there is room for debate. Some health professionals believe that stretch marks are genetic; however, these same professionals often suggest that using the proper moisturizer and gently massaging vulnerable areas can relieve itching and nourish the skin and help prevent and fade existing stretch marks.
What results have you found with Tummy Butter and Bump Gloss?TOP
In random surveys of users, 92% of pregnant women using Spoiled Mamas Tummy Butter reported they did not get one lasting stretch mark, and claimed the butter was the only solution for their excessive itching.
82% of Tummy Butter users that treated already existing stretch marks experienced a significant improvement in an average of 8 weeks when used twice daily. The results included fading, blending and smoothing of existing scars and stretch marks by improving skin tone and texture.
What else can I do, besides caring for my skin, to help prevent stretch marks?TOP
There are several steps that you can take that may help prevent stretch marks. First, eat a healthy diet including all the protein, vitamins and fruits and vegetables essential to your health, to nourish both your baby and your skin.
Second, take prenatal vitamins as prescribed by your physician, and drink at least six to eight glasses of water daily, again to assure that your body has all the building blocks it needs or a healthy baby and for your health, as well. You need to not only hydrate your skin, but also keep your insides hydrated as well.
Third, monitor your weight gain and try not to exceed your doctor's recommendations for a steady, healthy weight gain appropriate for you. Always remember, you should never diet during pregnancy! Your baby needs a steady supply of calories and nutrients every day to support healthy growth and development, and it is absolutely necessary for you to gain weight during pregnancy. Last but not least, Exercise is key for a healthy body and healthy baby. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program.
YES and YES. Our products are all made with organic ingredients or wildcraft in origin, and contain no animal products. And cruelty free. Making them better for You, Your Family and Our Earth.
What makes Spoiled Mama products different from other products?TOP
Our products are all natural, created from either organic or wildcraft ingredients, with no animal products or animal testing. The herbs chosen for our formulas are known for their synergistic effects, and work together for maximum benefit for you and your growing body.
We have hand selected each ingredient for its ability to relax, nourish and rebuild skin tissue and collagen strands, and they have been used for centuries and across many cultures to help preserve, restore and beautify the skin. Our botanicals are steeped in oils also celebrated for their ability to promote healthy skin. Finally, the oil infusions are combined with cocoa butter, a traditional moisturizing favorite of pregnant women, which gives form to our botanical oils and makes our product easy to use. This detailed process uses only the finest natural ingredients from start to finish. Therefore we stand behind all Spoiled Mama Products.
Every ingredient in our salves, oils, scrubs and bath teas contribute to the therapeutic (and in some cases, aromatherapeutic) benefit, without the addition of:
Yes. All of our products use ingredients deemed safe for topical use during pregnancy and have been tested extensively without animal testing. Our baby products include only ingredients recognized for their safety on even the most delicate infant skin, and without the addition of nut oils.
If for any reason you are dissatisfied with one of our products, or if you develop any type of skin reaction to our products, simply discontinue use and return the product for a full refund.
What are your Holiday shipping hours and deadlines?TOP
Wednesday, November 25th (Day Before Thanksgiving)
Normal shipping day. Most order placed before 3pm (EST) will ship out same day. UPS Next Day Air packages shipped today will be delivered on Friday, November 28th. Keep in mind that UPS 2nd Day Air packages shipping today won't be delivered until Monday, November 30th unless you chose the Saturday delivery box.
Thursday, November 26th & Friday, November 27th -Closed-
Happy Thanksgiving Day! We are closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday from November 26th thru November 29th. No shipments or deliveries on Nov 27th.
Holiday Shipping Guide
Continental US Order Delivery Times Only*
Shipping Deadlines for the Holidays
Email and printable Gift Cards can be sent immediately, at any time.
Holiday (Arrival Date)
GROUND Shipping*
Three day Select*
Second Day Air*
Next Day Air**
Chanukah (December 12th)
12/03/09
12/07/09
12/08/09
12/09/09
Christmas/Kwanzaa (December 25th& 26th)
12/15/09
12/18/09
12/21/09
12/22/09
Christmas Week-New Years *12/25-1/4/2010*
CLOSED
TILL 1/3/10
CLOSED
TILL 1/3/10
CLOSED
TILL 1/3/10
CLOSED
TILL 1/3/10
All orders need to be completed before 3pm (EST) to meet the above dates.
Important note:
*All orders are scheduled to ship the FOLLOWING BUSINESS DAY upon credit card approval & product availability. Please understand that we are very busy this time of year and we cannot make any exceptions to process your order faster or go beyond the deadline dates, we appreciate your understanding. We cannot be responsible for orders that do not arrive on time due to shipping delays- You must consider that the carrier may run into weather problems this time of year. For International Orders (Including Canada), USPS shipping outside the continental U.S., we cannot guarantee delivery times.
**Next Day Air shipments are only available by calling Customer Service. All Next Day Air orders must be called in before 2pm EST. Product availability will determine if this service can be offered. Call Customer Service for details 1-877-657-7645.
Below is a map that shows the number of UPS delivery days once it leaves our processing center in San Francisco. An e-mail confirmation will be sent once your order ships. Please add 2-3 days to the transit times below for order processing. Upgraded shipping will only expedite travel time, not processing time. If you are unsure of delivery times, please call our toll free customer service number at 877.657.7645.
Yes, at The Spoiled Mama, we hand pack each order with tender love and care for our Expectant Mama. We understand that pregnancy can bring many changes to your new mama body and if you feel that you need to return or would like to exchange any of our products please contact us for instructions on how to complete your return at: requestinfo@thespoiledmama.com or call us at 877.OK.SPOIL.
All returns must
be postmarked within 14 days of receipt. In order to receive a full refund, the outer seal (shrink wrap) must still be intact. If the items you are returning are used and have been opened, we will offer you store credit for the cost of the item minus shipping. Items which are unopened must include an explanation of reason for returning product and have a return authorization number.
Please contact our customer care office for a Return Authorization Number. Shipping charges are not covered.
All returned packages must::
A tracking number from the shipper (insurance is optional in the event of damages in transit)
In original containers & received within two weeks after the returning shipping date.
We cannot be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items in transit. Insurance is highly recommended!
**Please wrap all oil based products in a sealed bag to prevent leaks upon shipment**
All UNOPENED items in NEW condition may be returned within 14 days of receipt for a full refund of the item's purchased price. Due to our products containing all natural and organic ingredients we will not be able to accept any returns after 14 days. We want to maintain the integrity of each and every one of our products.
Due to our products containing all natural and organic ingredients we will not be able to accept any returns after 14 days.
If your product is damaged, please contact customer service immediately at 1-877-657-7645.
Absolutely!!!! That is why we have the Spoiled Daddy and Spoiled Baby line. Dads love our Scrubs, after shower oils and cremes. And body builders use our butters and oils for their anti-stretch mark action, which effectively prevents and repairs stretch marks.
Adolescents, who often get stretch marks during a growth spurt, use it to prevent and repair stretch marks also.
In addition, our butters, oils ,cremes and salves can be used not only for moisturizing but also treats minor burns, eczema, psoriasis, cuts, scrapes, bruises, dry skin, crow's feet, windburn, sunburn, and much more (see the next question.)
Do Sav-vy Mama Salve and Tummy Butter work for other ailments and skin conditions, beyond stretch marks?TOP
Yes, they do! It's moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties make it an excellent treatment for eczema for people of all ages, as well as other dry and itchy skin conditions. Use it in the winter to soften and protect cuticles; on elbows and knees, on rough dry feet or anywhere skin is dry.
Our salve and is also excellent for scars, rashes, psoriasis, sunburn, windburn, cuts, bruises, hemorrhoids, minor burns and as a facial and body moisturizer. Also, can be used for crow's feet and wrinkles and other common skin complaints. The rich, emollient oils and natural herbal extracts have been specially combined to safely soften and rebuild skin tissue all over your body, for a healthy and youthful glow.
Why are there little white dots in my Nipstick?
The little white dots/flecks are from the shea butter that is in our Nipstick. When Shea Butter has a change in temperature; warm to cold it changes the texture of it, however, it does not change its effectiveness. When it comes into contact with your skin it will quickly melt on contact and become a soft consistency again. This is common with most products that are organic and all natural and do not contain harmful preservatives. Our Nipstick is safe for you and your babe(s) and does not need to be rinsed off prior to nursing.
The information about the use of herbs and essential oils contained in this site is not meant to be a substitute for persons seeking the advice of a qualified health care provider. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness. Always consult your health care provider about the use of herbs and essential oils, especially during pregnancy, when nursing a baby or with children.