Avoiding and reducing stretch marks

Embrace your baby bump and all of the changes it brings.

Stretch marks are a very difficult pregnancy symptom to avoid and they never disappear 100%. That doesn’t mean you have to worry about them, we think it’s best to embrace them. There are also several steps you can take to both avoid and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Avoid stretch marks by:

• Gaining weight slowly and never more than the recommended amount.
• Maintain a healthy pregnancy diet. This will help you manage your weight gain.
• Moisturise your skin. There is no scientific evidence to support the claims that certian creams and oils actually work, however they certainly don’t hurt and they keep your skin from becoming dry and itchy, which is the first sign of stretch marks.
• Massage your skin when moisturising. This stimulates collagen production in your skin.
• Keep hydrated. This helps your skin’s elasticity.
• Don’t attempt rapid weight loss postpartum. Rapid weight loss is just as bad as rapid weight gain, so remember to lose the baby weight gradually.

Reduce stretch marks by:

• Acting quickly. Stretch marks are easier to reduce when they first appear, so speak to your healthcare provider to find out what creams do work and are safe during pregnancy.
• Once you have given birth, try an over-the-counter cream. Zengers Stretchmarks is highly recommended by many mothers, however double-check with your doctor that it is safe if you are breastfeeding.
• Visit your dermatologist. This is an expensive option, but your dermatologist may be able to prescribe effective creams, give you glycolic acid injections or even suggest laser treatment if you’re stretch marks are really bothering you.

Remember, stretch marks are a normal part of many pregnancies and are completely natural. If you experience stretch marks, our best recommendation is to embrace your new body, because it is even more gorgeous than before!

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