Avoid the Dreaded Pregnancy Stretch Marks

 

It’s a sad fact that one of the first things many women think of when they realise they’re pregnant is “Oh no! I’ll get stretch marks!”. This preoccupation with the physical changes which are wrought on a body during pregnancy is only natural. Nobody particularly likes change and especially when it’s us doing the changing! Between 75% and 95% of women will develop stretch marks during pregnancy and because they are partly caused by hormonal changes in addition of course to the stretching of the skin, there is some inevitability involved in them. However there are certain tactics which you can try in order to minimize the risk of the dreaded pregnancy stretch marks as well as very advanced laser techniques designed specifically for the removal of stretch marks.

Preparation Is Key 

As soon as you find out that you’re pregnant take steps to protect your skin from the onset of stretch marks. There are many so-called “wonder creams” on the market which purport to protect you from stretch marks but the reality is that whilst important, moisturizer will only go so far in the battle. However that’s not an excuse not to apply some daily!

Creams, Oils & Lotions

As part of your daily routine incorporate good body lotions into your after bath care. Some people swear by cocoa butter whilst other advocate bio oil, baby oil or just plain emollient cream. Whichever you opt for, choose a natural formula where possible and massage your skin daily paying particular attention to your middle region…your stomach and abdomen, breasts, hips and thighs. These are the areas which are often most affected by the silvery lines we call stretch marks.

Healthy Diet

Watch your diet. That doesn’t mean go on a diet as it’s very important to consume enough nutrients for yourself as well as your growing baby but eat healthily and avoid junk food where possible. Stick to lean meat and fish, good fats such as avocados and oily fish in addition to plenty of fruit, salad and water. This kind of food will aid your body in flushing out toxins and it will also help you to keep your hormones in balance…and it is hormones which are mostly to blame for stretch marks!

Do remember that even if you see the signs of stretch marks forming, you won’t be stuck with them forever…and especially remember that stretch marks which are relatively new are much more noticeable than old ones. New or fresh stretch marks are often red or purplish in colour and can look very livid but after a year or so they change, fading to a barely-there silvery colour.

For many women however, these silvery lines are not something they want to live with and if you have stretch marks which are making you feel self conscious then don’t feel you have to live with it…you can seek laser treatment for stretch marks and many women find that the treatment is a revelation being both pain-free and affordable.