What are stretch marks? Google says "streaks or stripes on the skin, especially on the abdomen, caused by distension of the skin from obesity or during pregnancy."
I think every woman is worried about getting stretch marks. Truth is, there is only so much you can do because stretch marks are genetic. If your mama had them, chances are you will get them too. I did not get any stretch marks until I was well into my third trimester. I started getting them around week 32.
Below are some products I used throughout my entire pregnancy to prevent major stretch marks. You will find a variety as I kept switching them up based on my moods and my sensitivity to their scents.
Vaseline. Yup, this most affordable jar of petroleum jelly sure is thick and oily, but it locked in the moisture best after a shower. Get a big jar of Vaseline - you will use it even after giving birth. I'm using this now with my second pregnancy.
Mustela - Double Action Stretch Mark Cream and Bust Cream. I liked these at first, but after a while I didn't like the scent anymore. However, I liked that the bust cream is very light on your skin.
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks. Gone old school. Smells great and does its job moisturizing your growing belly.
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Tummy Butter. I used this in the mornings after my shower and I am still using this product postpartum.
Bonal Stretch Mark Prevention Cream. This is definitely a secret weapon! This cream is on the pricier side and I had to order it from Switzerland. It worked wonders for many friends I know. I used this throughout my first pregnancy and am currently using it during my second. I love to apply it right after the shower and so far, my stretch marks (from the first pregnancy) are barely visible.
Penaten Mama Massage Cream. Product of Switzerland that was a gift. Light and great to take along for re-applying during the day.
Bio Oil. Great for stretch marks prevention and scar healing.
Drinking lots of water will also help your skin stay hydrated as it stretches. Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet will help you gain weight slowly which will let your skin expand without causing it distress.Coconut Oil. You can use this for everything! Coconut oil is very hydrating and can help with very dry skin, dry hair, sun burns and even to remove make up.
Hope this post was helpful!
xTanya
I thought I wouldn't get stretch marks I'm 7 months in and everyday seems like more and more are being created . How long do they take to go away, I've been using coco butter
I'm not a medical professional, but stretch marks are genetic, so if your mother had them, chances are you will get them too. You can just avoid getting really bad/deep ones. My advice would be to keep yourself hydrated, keep a proper nutritional balance to minimize rapid weight gain and to keep re-applying the cocoa butter every few hours. I currently use Bonal and Vaseline. I literally smudge my entire belly with it and do notice that it stays moisturized the entire day. Also try not to scratch your belly when it's itchy. If your doc gives you the green light, you may want to add a collagen supplement to it. Check my other post about supplements. Good luck! x
Edited to add that the stretch marks do fade away after giving birth!
My doctor told me the same thing!