We are told there is nothing we can do about it. It’s genetic. You either get them or you don’t. Though I don’t completely disagree with this statement, I do think there are things you can do to prevent stretch marks. Perhaps some people’s skin is miraculously more stretchy than others but if you are genetically predisposed to stretch marks there are still options for you.
Growing that fast can leave you with stretch marks, especially on your belly and breasts, two areas that grow the most. Stretch marks can also show up on the thighs, buttocks, and upper arms. The marks often start out reddish or purple, but after pregnancy they gradually fade to white or gray.
Pregnancy stretch marks are a natural result of the skin around the abdomen stretching out to accommodate a growing belly. So you shouldn’t lose sleep over this.
There is no way to prevent stretch marks.
“There is not a cream, lotion, or “mommy” balm that can do that – and if that is the claim on the bottle or on any cup of body cream, don’t be fooled,”
But it is always a good idea to keep your skin moisturised with a rich lotion or cream, especially if it makes your skin feel better, look smoother and more toned, and helps the itchiness that can come with your growing belly. It also helps to keep your body hydrated with water,” says Anne Chapas, clinical instructor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center, U.S.“There is not a cream, lotion, or “mommy” balm that can do that – and if that is the claim on the bottle or on any cup of body cream, don’t be fooled,”
Interestingly, there are things that can be done to reduce the appearance of stretch marks if you act early in the pregnancy apart from applying original olive oil on your tummy and areas where you are likely going to have them. The steps to take according to experts, are simple.
Tips to reduce stretch marks:
Eat a skin-nourishing diet. You’re probably already eating healthy, balanced meals to make sure your baby is getting enough vitamins and nutrients. Incorporating foods that are especially beneficial for the health of your skin can improve your skin’s elasticity, which helps prevent stretch marks from forming.
Add the following foods to your daily diet:
Foods rich in antioxidants, which help nourish and protect skin. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Foods containing vitamin E, which protect skin cell membranes. Eat nuts, seeds, avocados broccoli, and collard greens.
Foods containing vitamin A, which repair skin tissues. Eat carrots, sweet potatoes, and mango
Foods containing omega 3s, which keep cell membranes healthy and make your skin glow. Eat fish, fish oil, eggs and oyster