How to stop stretch marks during pregnancy is a common question we get asked. Growing a human is an incredible journey that transforms a woman’s body in miraculous ways, albeit sometimes confronting and of course many moms-to-be are concerned about the appearance of stretch marks. These little lines can pop up as your skin stretches and grows, and they can sometimes cause stress.
Stretch marks are a natural part of your work growing a tiny human being. They are also sometimes inevitable based on your skin type. Rather than looking to stop stretch marks, here at The Mama Style we’ve tried adjusting our perspectives on how they come to be in the first place: marks are a beautiful sign of your hard work and your body’s adjustment to growing and nurturing life inside you.
While it can be impossible to fully stop stretch marks, there are some things you can add to your self-care routine to reduce the appearance of stretch marks while also ensuring you have a much more comfortable pregnancy while also using this time with your body to give it the loving massage and care it deserves.
Belly oil
Adding belly oil to your skincare routine can make a big difference here for both function and self care. Firstly, it nourishes the skin and keeps it supple. It’s also wonderful to rub into your growing belly, smells fabulous and feels luxurious. What a winning combination!
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The Magic of Belly Oil
1. Hydration is Key
During pregnancy, your skin undergoes significant stretching, which can lead to dryness and irritation. Belly oil is specially formulated to provide intense hydration, helping to keep your skin supple and elastic. Ingredients like almond oil, coconut oil, and shea butter penetrate deep into the skin, ensuring it stays moisturized and less prone to tearing.
2. Boosts Skin Elasticity
Belly oil is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that nourish the skin and improve its elasticity. This means your skin can stretch more easily without breaking, reducing the likelihood of stretch marks forming.
3. Reduces Itchiness
As your belly grows, the skin can become itchy due to stretching. Applying belly oil can soothe this itchiness, providing much-needed relief and preventing you from scratching, which can exacerbate the appearance of stretch marks.
4. Promotes Collagen Production
Many belly oils contain ingredients that stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that keeps your skin firm and elastic. By boosting collagen levels, belly oil helps your skin maintain its structure and bounce back after stretching.
Miso Jung, Founder & Creative Director of Soon Maternity says, “After suffering from stretch marks and tight skin through my own pregnancies, I felt the need to design a belly oil specifically to support and nurture mothers-to-be, helping them embrace their motherhood journey. Our powerful all-natural belly oil contains MARINE BAMBOO®, an algae sustainably sourced from the ocean. Rich in firming and protective properties that deeply hydrate and nourish the skin while boosting elasticity, it has a fresh and light scent with natural essential oils and has been created to be your daily retreat.“
Additional tips for a healthy and strong pregnancy body
While belly oil is a fantastic tool in your skincare arsenal, there are other steps you can take to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining your skin’s elasticity. Hydrated skin is more resilient and less likely to develop stretch marks. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin (and your body) well-hydrated.
Owala Freesip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle With Straw Marshmallow
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, and silica can support skin health and elasticity. Incorporate foods like citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens into your meals to nourish your skin from the inside out.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which can help keep your skin healthy and resilient. Activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options for expectant mothers.
4. Use a Stretch Mark Cream
In addition to belly oil, consider using a specialized stretch mark cream to try and stop stretch marks. These creams are formulated with ingredients that target stretch marks and can be used alongside belly oil for added protection.
5. Avoid Rapid Weight Gain
While weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, try to maintain a steady and gradual increase. Rapid weight gain can put additional strain on your skin, making it more likely to develop stretch marks. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines for healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
6. Gently Massage Your Belly
Massaging your belly with belly oil can improve blood flow and encourage the absorption of nourishing ingredients. Use gentle, circular motions to massage the oil into your skin, making it a relaxing part of your daily routine.
7. Wear pregnancy support garments
Pregnancy leggings and compression socks may not have you looking like a Victoria’s Secret model but they pay more dividends than you think. Support garments can increase blood flow, help reduce pelvic pain and even minimise varicose veins. Postpartum, you need recovery garments to help speed up recovery.
SRC Pregnancy Leggings – Over The Bump
SRC Recovery Short – Mini
Embrace Your Journey
While it’s not always possible to completely stop stretch marks, it’s important to remember that they are a natural part of pregnancy for many women. Embracing your body’s changes with love and care is vital. Belly oil and these additional tips can help minimize stretch marks, but they are also a reminder of the incredible journey your body is undergoing to bring new life into the world.