Although pregnancy is a very exciting and rewarding time, it also brings with it many physical changes and emotional ups and downs. It's completely normal: a new life is about to arrive.
If you're one of those people who has had, has, or fears the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy, keep reading: we'll explain why they appear, how to treat them, and the best anti-stretch mark creams and oils to take care of them.
Why do stretch marks appear during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, stretch marks are common due to hormonal changes and skin stretching. As the abdomen and breasts expand to accommodate the growing baby, the skin stretches and may experience small tears in the deeper layers. These tears appear as red, pink, or purple lines and are known as stretch marks.
In addition to hormonal changes and skin stretching, factors such as genetic predisposition , rapid weight gain , and lack of skin elasticity can also influence the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy.
It's important to understand that stretch marks don't pose a health risk and usually fade over time, although they may not disappear completely.
Keeping your skin hydrated and achieving a gradual, healthy weight gain during pregnancy can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. But beyond this, we have other tips.
Tips to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy
Here are some tips that can help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy:
- Hydration: Keep your skin well hydrated by regularly applying moisturizing creams or oils. Look for products that contain ingredients like vitamin E, calendula oil, rosehip oil, or almond oil, which can help improve skin elasticity. You can use our Firming Body Oil , a nourishing concentrate based on cold-pressed, organically grown argan oil and frankincense and mandarin essential oils. This oil revitalizes, increases firmness and elasticity, and softens stretch marks. It has antioxidant and toning properties, improves sagging skin, and gives skin a firmer, smoother appearance.
- Increase your weight gradually: A gradual and healthy weight gain can help minimize excessive tension on your skin. Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate weight gain for you during pregnancy.
- Balanced diet : A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is important for maintaining skin health. Make sure you consume enough vitamins C and E, zinc, and protein, as these nutrients are important for maintaining skin elasticity and health.
- Keep your skin supple: Gently massage in circular motions on areas prone to stretch marks, such as your abdomen, breasts, and hips. This can help improve blood circulation and keep your skin supple.
- Avoid scratching: Scratching can irritate your skin and worsen the appearance of stretch marks. If you experience itching, try applying a soothing cream or an organic oil, like our calendula body oil, which is highly emollient and soothing, softening and soothing the inflamed areas. You can also consult your doctor for other recommendations.
- Regular exercise: Staying active during pregnancy can help maintain overall skin health. Consult a skin specialist to learn about the best exercises for you during pregnancy.
Remember that stretch marks are common and every body is different. Even if you follow these tips, you can't guarantee complete prevention of stretch marks. If stretch marks do appear, remember that they usually fade and become less visible over time.
The best anti-stretch mark creams and oils for pregnancy
There are several creams and oils recommended to help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy, as we've seen before. Below are some of the most popular and effective ingredients:
- Rosehip Oil : Known for its regenerative and nourishing properties, rosehip oil can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- Cocoa butter : Cocoa butter is known for its ability to deeply nourish the skin and improve its elasticity. It's a common ingredient in many stretch mark creams and butters.
- Almond oil : Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and can help improve skin elasticity. It is widely used to prevent and treat stretch marks during pregnancy.
- Grapeseed Oil : This oil is light and easily absorbed into the skin. It's known for its moisturizing properties and its ability to strengthen skin structure.
- Calendula oil : Calendula has the ability to nourish the skin, thanks to its high content of essential fatty acids and natural antioxidants.
It's also very effective at reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes, as well as soothing irritated and sensitive skin. It can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Even so, each person is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's always important to read product labels to avoid using toxic ingredients during pregnancy. Our body oils and calendula body cream are perfect for use throughout pregnancy. They contain a very high percentage of active ingredients, and all their ingredients are designed to deeply nourish, maintain skin elasticity, and prevent stretch marks.
We recommend reading the post in which we discussed ingredients to avoid in your cosmetics, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
