There’s a lot of controversy as to why we get pregnancy stretch marks. Factors such as genetics, dry skin or the natural stretching of the skin that comes with a growing belly can all play a part. However, there are ways to decrease their appearance and make them more manageable.
These pinkish, embedded marks begin to form on the stomach, breasts and hip areas for most women in the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy. Because stretch marks develop in nine out of ten pregnancies, the sooner you start a skincare routine that increases elasticity and hydration, the better chance you have at cutting down on the appearance of your stretch marks.
During pregnancy, collagen and elastin, the fibers that keep the skin taut, begin to stretch at a fast pace due to the growing baby and body. Keeping your body hydrated and using products that provide the skin with much-needed hydration, vitamins and collagen support are good ways to encourage healthier, stronger skin.
But remember, this is not an all or nothing science! Taking the best care of your skin cannot guarantee that stretch marks won’t appear. And if you do get stretch marks, it’s ok! You are building a human life inside of you and stretch marks do not make you any less beautiful.
Disclosure: Thank you for reading and sharing my content! The suggested products are ones that my family and I would also use, but I may collect a small commission on purchases made through some of the affiliate links on this page.
Tips for Decreasing Stretch Marks in Pregnancy
1. Hydrate from the Inside
Water plays a vital role in your skin’s health. It filters out toxins and promotes proper organ function. Staying fully hydrated during pregnancy helps maintain amniotic fluid levels and decreases the likelihood of painful kidney stones. It also supports the overall health of you and your growing baby.
Staying hydrated provides better skin elasticity, which helps produce more “strength” to the tissue. Without proper hydration, skin stretches more easily, thus causing stretch marks.
Hydrated skin is more resilient (has more bounce-back) thanks to a naturally occurring substance called hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid holds water and makes your skin more vibrant, strong and less apt to stretch. Without adequate water, the skin doesn’t stay hydrated and its defense against stretch marks is lowered.
Drinking water won’t completely prevent stretch marks, because nothing can, but it does produce a better atmosphere for healthier skin during pregnancy.
Remember, drinking water (in general) is very important, but even more so for an expectant mother. Doctors generally recommend consuming half of your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 140 pounds, you should drink a minimum of 70 ounces of water each day. If you exercise or sweat a lot, you need to consume more.
Grab a water bottle, keep it with you at all times and keep it full. Water amounts vary from person-to-person, so chat with your physician for clarity on what amount of hydration is right for you.
2. Gold Clover (Bump Magic) Lotion
The Gold Clover line contains several different lotions, but I’m using “Bump Magic,” as the ingredients are safe for baby. I started using this product at the beginning of my pregnancy and I love knowing it supports the cells of my skin by adding hydration. This smooth lotion contains ingredients such as beef tallow mixed with vitamin E, organic EVOO and essential oils like frankincense and wild orange.
How does beef tallow benefit your skin?
Fatty acids are the building blocks of skin cells, which make them an important component for skin repair and regeneration. The structure of our cell membranes consists of approximately 50% saturated fats. This is very similar to the percentage of saturated fatty acids found in beef tallow.
Beef tallow has a dry, waxy texture and an appearance similar to coconut oil. This type of healthy fat is rich in vitamin E, and makes an effective natural moisturizer since it doesn’t clog pores. It also helps maintain skin moisture, prevents skin from flaking and can help fight off free radicals and inflammation.
(Note: You can make your own skin product by purchasing hollow at a local farmers market. If you plan on making your own, make sure you are purchasing grass-fed, organic beef tallow.)
3. True Botanicals “Calm” Pure Radiance Oil from the Pregnancy Line
I’ve used the skincare line True Botanicals for a while now. I love knowing I’m protecting my skin with a product that’s free of harmful chemicals. Thankfully, True Botanicals also has a pregnancy line, so I can continue using their products during my pregnancy.
I’m currently using the “calm” line. This product helps reduce redness and increase the “plump” in your skin by adding hydration. The relaxing smell is naturally scented with chamomile and neroli, making it a nice addition to a nightly routine.
Grapeseed Oil
“Calm” also contains grapeseed oil—one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants. Grapeseed oil can help fight free radicals and reduce the signs of aging. Another interesting ingredient in this product is Helichrysum, a plant from the daisy family, and an age-old remedy for irritated skin.
A healthy and effective skincare routine during pregnancy is possible. Choosing organic and natural ingredients support the health of your skin and your baby’s safety.
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