Stretch marks are one of the most annoying issues during pregnancy. Those red or white-colored streaks usually appear around the stomach, breasts, thighs and hips during pregnancy because of the over-stretching of the skin. These start appearing after 6th month as you start gaining weight rapidly. Genetics also play a very important role in this (if your mother or any other family member got these stretch marks then you are more likely to get these). Well there is no way out to prevent stretch marks completely but there are some tips which may help you to minimize their appearance, which are as follows:
Gain Healthy Weight: During pregnancy, rapid weight gain is the main reason of stretch marks in most of the cases. So it’s always suggested to eat healthy and do exercise to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy. This helps to reduce the chances of stretch marks.
Eat Omega 3’s: Omega-3’s work great to improve the elasticity and suppleness of the skin which helps to benefit stretch marks. Some of the most common sources of omega 3’s are salmon, sardines, chia seeds, walnuts, flax seeds, soybeans etc. As expecting women should avoid or limit the intake of high mercury fishes, so always consult your doctor before adding them in your diet.
Make Changes In Your Diet: Having a well-balanced and nutritious diet is good for a healthy skin. So try to make changes in your diet and have a diet rich in Vitamin A, C, E, zinc and protein. These nutrients are good for the elasticity of your skin and hence are helpful to minimize the stretch marks.
Stay Hydrated: Dry and dehydrated skin has more chances of wrinkles and stretch marks. So drink a lot of water to keep your skin soft and supple, which minimizes the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy. Keep yourself hydrated by adding lots of water and fluids in your diet.
Moisturize Your Skin: Moisturization may also be helpful to prevent the appearance of stretch marks and itchiness. You can use coconut oil, argan oil, apricot oil, almond oil, cocoa butter cream, or any other oil or cream as recommended by your doctor that helps to rejuvenate your skin.
Exercise: As exercise helps to increase the blood flow in your body which helps in skin healing and helps you maintain a healthy weight, all these specifications are good to prevent stretch marks. Make a habit of doing regular exercise which not only is good for stretch marks but for many other issues as well, especially during pregnancy.
Vitamin D Helps: Apart from other nutrients, Vitamin D is also very essential for your skin. Some studies suggest that a low level of vitamin D in your body can increase your chances of stretch marks. So try to maintain a good level of vitamin D either through sunlight, diet, or by a supplement.
HOME REMEDIES FOR STRETCH MARKS :
During pregnancy, stretching of the skin can break down the collagen and elasticity of your skin which leads to stretch marks. There is no 100% guarantee of preventing them, but it is suggested to treat it when these are fresh as these easily fade away. Let’s treat them naturally, following are some of the home remedies for stretch marks:
Coconut oil: Coconut oil is popular for it’s healing properties which help to heal almost every skin issue including wounds and stretch marks. Try to apply virgin coconut oil regularly on the affected area. Within a few days, your stretch marks will start to fade. You can also combine coconut oil with almond oil and massage regularly.
Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel is a bliss to heal and rejuvenate your skin tissues. It has magical properties that work wonders for your skin. Try to apply fresh aloe vera gel for more effective results, leave it for about 15-20 minutes and then wash that area or clean it with a damp cloth.
Potato juice: Potato has skin lightening properties which prove very effective for dark circles, pimple marks, scars, and stretch marks. You’ll see visible results when applying potato juice regularly on your stretch marks, as it helps to lighten the marks.
Lemon juice: Lemon has skin lightening properties which help to fade away the stretch marks. You can use freshly squeezed lemon juice, can mix it with a cucumber juice, or can make a mask (1 beaten egg yolk, 1tsp almond paste, 1tsp oatmeal and 1/2 tsp lemon juice), apply it on the affected area and wash it off after 10-15 minutes. Use it regularly on alternate days for best result.
Sugar: Scrubbing with sugar can make a difference on your stretch marks. You can add coconut oil and some lemon juice in sugar to make a consistent paste. Use this scrub two to three times a week for best results.
Egg White: The egg white is rich in protein and amino acids which are very helpful for your skin tightening and lightening. Just apply the egg white on your stretch marks and wash it off after 15-20 minutes and see the result within a few days.
These remedies are not a miracle and you won’t get rid of your stretch marks within a day or two, it’s a game of time and patience. Try to use the home remedies whichever suit you on a regular basis to see the results. Also, don’t forget to moisturize your affected area, as hydration/moisturization helps to speed up the healing process of the skin.
Apart from those home-remedies, there are various clinical treatments (laser therapy, retinoid cream, Injections of platelet-rich plasma, chemical peels, etc.) which are very effective on stretch marks but these are not for pregnant and lactating women. Your doctor may advise those treatments after breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before using any cream or treatment. Meanwhile, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy to boost the collagen of your skin naturally, so that there are less chances of those pink or white-colored streaks.