Prevent stretch marks during pregnancy..possible?

Everyone emotes about the “JOY” of motherhood, of being a creator of a miracle, of having a living being inside you and nurturing it and protecting it till it is ready to come out into the world.

But no one emotes about the “PAIN” of motherhood lest people think less of you for not loving every single moment of it. No one talks about the sleepless nights, swollen feet, morning sickness, back pains, panic attacks, or hating the way your body changes and feeling bad when you breakdown and cry because you feel like you can’t carry it anymore.

One of the hardest changes of motherhood is that which happens to the body. Many mothers are not able to return back to the bodies that they had before the pregnancies. Even if they do manage to achieve it after hard work, pregnancy does leave a mark on you in some form or the other. It may be changes in body metabolism, scar from c-section, vaginal change, change in the shape of breast etc. One of the very noticeable changes is stretch marks The long and narrow streaks or stripes from when the skin is stretched too rapidly are stretch marks. Quite simply, the skin is unable to keep up with the fast pace of stretching. These normally appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, butt and thighs and can sometimes feel itchy and sore.

Stretch marks range in color from angry red to dark purple when young to silver lines when they mature. Stretch marks do turn lighter over time and can even appear non-existent. It is estimated that 50 to 90 percent of women develop stretch marks before delivery.

While some women may accept them with pride as a sign of motherhood, most women struggle with accepting these classic souvenirs of maternity.

 

 

Stretch Marks Lotion, Stretch Marks Oil, Stretch Marks Cream

We understand that while using natural ingredients may be the best solution, sometimes it’s not the easiest solution. Whether you are working women juggling both home and work or a homemaker, taking out time for one self especially when you are just getting used to being a mother can be difficult. Opt for a Stretch Mark Lotion, oil or cream which may be easier to use as you can just leave it in and they shouldn’t stain clothes. However do look for natural ingredients in the products which should be the active ingredient of the product.

However remember whether natural remedy or otherwise, these will only work with regular use. So be consistent in applying the products on your stretch marks.

 

 

Can stretch marks be prevented?

As much as we would like to say that yes, they can be prevented, truth be told, it’s hard to stop them from appearing. Many brands claim to be able to prevent or erase stretch marks but don’t be taken in by them. Though there are some options for trying to prevent them but there is no sure shot formula to avoid them.

Chances also are that if your parents had stretch marks, you are more likely to have them to as the code is in the genes.

 

Hydrate

Dry skin develops more stretch marks than soft skin. Drinking Plenty of Water keeps the skin hydrated and soft and elastic. Water is the elixir to internal and external health.

 

Moisturize Moisturize Moisturize

Just as water is important to hydrate from within, topically hydrating your skin is equally important. So take time to rub in the moisturizer. It can be a fun and relaxing activity for you and your partner.

 

Gain weight slowly

Rapid weight gains it the main reason for stretch marks. While it’s important to gain weight during pregnancy, it needs to be done in a controlled manner. Work with your gynecologist to ensure that the weight gain is gradual, giving your skin a chance to adjust to the stretch.

 

Nutrient Rich Diet for Skin Health

Skin health may get a good boost by consuming a nutrient rich diet like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Zinc, Protein, Omega-3 etc. Eating unprocessed food in various colors ensures that you are getting a variety of nutrients. It’s always a good idea to run this past your gynecologist/dietician.

 

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is filled to the brim with enzymes, nutrients and vitamins. It binds moisture to the skin and encourages the production of collagen. Both these improve the skin’s elasticity and heal stretch marks. Whether store bought or naturally obtained, it’s simple to use this gel as you can apply it and don’t need to bother about washing it or staining your clothes.

 

Reducing the visibility of stretch marks

Stretch marks cannot or may not be completely obliterated, but they do fade over a period of time. You can hasten the journey by utilizing some of the options below, which are gentle on the skin. Early Treatment of Stretch Mark vs mature stretch mark is more effective.

 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil encourages collagen production. It is anti-inflammatory and is easily absorbed into the skin. Coconut oil speeds up collagen production.  It should be gently but thoroughly rubbed into the skin and you can just leave it in as it’s a natural ingredient.

 

Turmeric

The anti-inflammatory property of turmeric works on calming the skin. Due to its antiseptic properties, turmeric is known to reduce scarring and heal and kind of wounds faster. Mix turmeric with coconut oil and apply it on the stretch marks and leave for a while. Wipe clean with a warm damp cloth and moisturize immediately afterwards.

 

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has natural “bleach” properties and this property can be used to Diminish The Stretch Marks. Do be mindful that lemon juice can stain your fabrics and countertops. You can soak a cotton ball in lemon juice and apply it on your skin for up to 10 mins and wipe clean with a damp cloth.

 

Egg Whites

The amino acids and protein in the egg can help to regenerate the stretched out skin. Use the egg whites and whisk it till foamy. Apply this on the skin and let it dry. Rinse off and moisturize.

 

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid has a unique capability to bind and retain water in the skin. The early use of HA on stretch marks can make them less noticeable.

 

Argan Oil

Argan oil makes the skin supple and less inflamed as it contains Vitamin E, Vitamin A, fatty acids and other nutrients. It can be used to diminish the Stretch Marks After Pregnancy with regular use.

 

 

Other Options

 One can opt for laser therapy which stimulates the growth of collagen or elastin, Dermabrasion which removes dead skin and encourages skin to produce collagen over a period of time; creams with retinoid as active ingredient (Do not use this if you are breastfeeding. It should only be used after checking with your dermatologist). However these treatments can be expensive.