I love a multi-purpose beauty product. But never did I ever think this would apply to using something intended for pregnancy. Something I most very definitely am not. But then, I came across a Kardashian recommended koncotion, and well here we are. Here’s why I tried the belly oil that Kourt used during her pregnancy. Even though the only bump I was rocking was a pasta baby.
Belly oils and bumps
Belly oils are popular among pregnant women for several reasons. With pregnancy often bringing about changes in a woman’s body, including stretching of the skin on the belly as the baby grows, belly oils provide intense moisturisation. Helping to prevent dryness, itchiness and the appearance of stretch marks. This is because belly oils typically contain ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, almond oil and vitamin E. Which are believed to promote skin elasticity and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks.
Beyond this, belly oils are often a key component of self care. Highly required for those sacrificing sushi, soft cheese and serums like retinol for nine months. For many expectant mothers, applying belly oil can become a soothing ritual. Providing a moment of relaxation and self-care amidst the changes happening in their bodies. Massaging the belly with oil can also be a way for mothers to bond with their unborn baby. It’s a gentle and intimate gesture that can help mothers feel more connected to their pregnancy experience.
Beyond baby
So, given that I was not with child, what would possess me to consider adding a belly oil to my routine. Well, perhaps given the rising popularity of multi-purpose beauty products (okay. And a little bit of influence from one of the most beautiful women in the world) it might make a little more sense.
According to Lara Henderson, Mother of two and founder of Pure Mama (the very body oil that Kourtney Kardashian packed as an essential in her hospital bag), belly oils actually work well beyond the belly.
“Our belly oil has gained huge popularity outside of pregnancy with thousands of women using it to treat a range of common skin conditions and reporting back incredible results,” says Lara. “We have many reviews calling out the versatility of the product. Using it for body, face, nails, and hair.”
According to Lara, some of the non-knocked-up benefits of a belly oil include:
- Anti-ageing aid – improving fine lines, making skin feel plumper and younger.
- Skin feeling the softest its ever felt – “Skin like a dolphin” is how many customers describe it,” says Lara.
- Reduction and at times elimination of existing stretch marks and scaring from causes outside of pregnancy.
- Relief and reduction of skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema to name a few.
“Many women have said they have tried so many oils and notice our Belly Oil really sinks into the skin without leaving an oily film on top,” says Lara. “This might explain why we’ve sold out of this belly oil 4 times and women cant get enough of it!”
All about oils
Whilst Lara “absolutely acknowledges that stretch marks are not entirely preventable for everyone. And that genetics can play a role,” she does add, that “there are several things you can do to help reduce the severity of them. And the appearance of old ones, as well.”
One of these being the use of a potent combination of “all-natural, high-performance, high-concentrate botanicals. That are more commonly used in facial skincare than body care.” Which in her Pure Mama Blend include, rosehip, raspberry and avocado oil. All carrying powerful healing and preventative benefits, which Lara outlines below.
“Avocado oil is an antioxidant-rich source of essential fatty acids and proteins to deeply nourish and hydrate skin, she says. “While coconut oil which is a beautiful, light, fast-absorbing carrier oil is designed to deeply hydrate the skin and reinforce its defensive barrier.
“Rosehip oil contains phenols that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. And is rich in vitamins C and E, and fatty acids (omega 3, 6 and 9) to rejuvenate skin and to help even out skin tone.
“Raspberry seed oil has natural SPF properties, providing some level of protection against harmful UV rays. While it’s not a replacement for sunscreen, incorporating raspberry seed oil into a body oil blend can provide an added layer of protection against sun damage. While almond oil is rich in essential fatty and amino acids.
“Finally, we incorporate pomegranate seed oil which is rich in vitamin C and Punicic Acid (an omega-5 fatty acid that helps to prevent moisture loss) into our belly oil,” says Lara. “This antioxidant-rich oil deeply hydrates the skin and helps fight free radicals.”
Ultimately, the combination of these oils can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. The antioxidants and fatty acids in these oils support collagen production, which is essential for maintaining youthful-looking skin.
Practically a Kardashian
Having determined that this oil has set off on a slippery slope of securing my status as a reality-tv kween I ask Lara, exactly how she managed to get her Baby Mana products into some of the hottest bumps in Hollywood (which also included Sofia Grange).
“Ooooo, that’s top-secret stuff, she laughs. “But, what I can tell you is that is always starts with relationships. Our team works hard to foster connections in the community, with our customers, and with likeminded brands. We always find that these celebrities really aren’t as inaccessible as you might think. You just have to get creative, believe in your product, and make sure you don’t give up. Anything is possible!”
