How To Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
Stretch marks are one of the main problems faced by women during pregnancy. They are the result of the changes that occur in their body and seem impossible to avoid. But this is not entirely true, since there are some ways to prevent stretch marks, which arise from the rupture of the elastic fibers of the dermis.
First of all, it should be clarified that the appearance of these strips (or dermo-epidermal atrophies) is completely normal. They are part of the natural development of pregnancy. However, since in some women they can become very visible, in this article we will explain how to prevent stretch marks.
Why do stretch marks appear?
According to Elizabeth Font, author of the book Skin Care During Pregnancy and After Childbirth , stretch marks: “… affect a large number of pregnant women (75-95%) and are produced by two factors, one mechanical and one hormonal”. This expert states that mechanical factors are produced “by the increase of adipose and connective tissue”. The volume of the body increases and the skin tightens.
On the other hand, hormonal factors are linked to an increase in estrogen, which “produce a weakening of the collagen and elastin fibers, so that these supporting structures of the epidermis thin and sink”.
Tips to prevent stretch marks
A proper diet
Eating well is something that needs to be done before, during and after pregnancy. Skin care is essential and its condition, in addition to being largely related to genetics, is certainly influenced by the dietary routine you maintain. This is why it is important to include all the necessary nutrients so that the skin remains elastic and at the same time toned, thus avoiding the appearance of unsightly stretch marks.
Your nutrient intake will depend on the food you eat. By eating silicon-rich foods such as potatoes, beets, whole grains, spinach or chard, collagen production is naturally promoted. This element will contribute to maintaining the firmness of the skin. Likewise, foods rich in fatty acids such as avocados, nuts or coconut, for example, should not be overlooked.
It will be necessary to give ample space to foods with a high intake of vitamin C, which significantly improves the elasticity of the skin, but not only. In fact, it acts against the harmful effects of solar radiation, preventing the appearance of stretch marks and signs related to aging. Some of these foods are: lemon, strawberry, pepper or tomato.
Moisturizers
Applying creams may seem impractical for some women, but during pregnancy, these products are a great ally against stretch marks. The basic advice is to start using the creams long before the body begins to change, in order to deal with the problem early.
One way to keep your belly skin hydrated is to apply creams after a shower or when you are in a moment of relaxation. You will have to choose tested and safe products, perhaps following the advice of the specialist. Do not exceed the quantities to be applied: the goal is that creams and oils are completely absorbed by the skin cells.
These are some great products to avoid stretch marks: coconut oil, almond oil, argan oil or rosehip oil. The choice and effect of creams and oils will depend on each woman’s skin type, although all of these are very effective in terms of hydration.
Anti stretch marks massages
They are a very relaxing way to avoid these unsightly scars on the skin. They can be done with the same moisturizing oils or with a combination of olive oil and wheat germ oil, for example. These are the areas where you should focus the most, because that’s where stretch marks appear most frequently:
- Breast: put a little oil on your hands and massage gently, making rotational movements inwards until continuing towards the shoulders.
- Belly: also in this case, the movements must be light and delicate over the entire extension of the belly. Massage until the oil is completely absorbed.
- Hips and thighs: in this case you will have to follow a specific direction, from the bottom up, up to the hips. Apply the cream or oil several times and cover the entire extension of the buttocks and thighs with more pressure.
Stretch marks don’t have to become an obsession. This is a natural consequence of childbirth, common to all future mothers. As you have seen, it is possible to prevent stretch marks in a natural way. Follow a balanced diet and, from the first months, use creams and oils to moisturize and massage the delicate areas of your body.
