The Best Products to Prevent Stretch Marks While Pregnant

Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation for the future. For many women, it is also a time to worry and fret about the appearance of stretch marks. Americanpregnancy.org reports that approximately 90 percent of pregnant women develop stretch marks at some point during their pregnancy. Genetically, you are more prone to develop these dreaded marks if someone in your family has them. Many products on the market tout the ability to prevent stretch marks. None of these products are scientifically guaranteed though they may help with the appearance of stretch marks.

  1. Cocoa Butter

    • Cocoa butter has been used for generations as a natural skin moisturizer, as well as a stretch mark preventer. Massaging cocoa butter into your skin aids in maintaining its moisture and elasticity. The massaging action also increases circulation to that area. Cocoa butter contains antioxidants which nourish the skin. Following delivery, it may be continuously used to prevent stretch marks from occurring from rapid weight loss. It is also useful in promoting healing after stretch marks form.

      Purchase cocoa butter without added chemicals for the safety of you and your baby. Palmer's Cocoa Butter is a good choice because it contains additional essential oils that are also beneficial in stretch mark prevention. Cocoa butter should be used at least twice daily throughout the pregnancy for best results. This product is inexpensive, widely available and has a very pleasant scent.

    Belly Balm by Bioskincare

    • Stretch marks are caused by the rapid stretching of skin. Collagen separates in the skin forming small tears; the scar tissue which builds up in these areas creates the stretch marks. Belly Balm by Bioskincare contains tissue regenerating properties which have been effective in preventing and treating stretch marks, as well as healing certain types of scars and skin disorders.

      The active ingredient in Belly Balm by Bioskincare is snail serum from a simple garden snail. The snail is the only creature on earth that secretes a serum which moisturizes, protects, repairs and regenerates its own skin. Belly Balm is applied topically to the belly daily throughout the second and third trimesters. It may be used after delivery to aid in skin healing. Bioskincare products are not widely available in stores, though online ordering is an option. It is also expensive at nearly $70 per bottle.

    Additional Tips

    • Stretch marks may also be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet, adequate hydration and gaining only the recommended 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy. Results for various creams and products will vary between women. If a strong genetic predisposition to stretch marks exists, nothing may prevent their occurrence. Twelve months after delivery, stretch marks typically fade in color matching your skin tone, though the texture will likely never return to normal. Consult with your dermatologist for more extensive methods of stretch mark removal such as laser treatments or prescription creams.

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