5 Tips to Avoid Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

For many females, stretch marks are inevitable during and after pregnancy. When the skin stretches, intended lines appear on the pregnant belly or other areas of the body. These stretch marks pop in 13 to 21 weeks and are more noticeable on lighter skin tones. They appear pink, purple-ish or brown. Nowadays, preventing these marks from occurring in the first place is much easier.

In this blog, Dr. Nivedita Dadu, the Best Skin Specialist in Delhi, discusses some tips to help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Keep reading to learn more.

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are narrow streaks that typically develop on the hips, buttocks, breasts, abdomen, and other body parts. Depending on the colour of the skin, these marks can initially be pink, purple, reddish brown, or dark brown. Stretch marks are common in the later stages of pregnancy when the baby belly bump is quickly expanding to accommodate the growing baby.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can happen to anyone, whether the skin is sensitive or not. These marks can occur when one drastically gains or loses weight quickly. Other adverse effects include dry skin that itches and lack of hydration. Stretch marks don’t hurt or cause discomfort. They are permanent, but with the correct products, they may gradually disappear and become less apparent. Enhancing skin elasticity with organic belly balm or pregnancy oils is one of the best ways to prevent the long-term scarring of stretch marks during pregnancy. To get effective Stretch Marks Treatment In Delhi, book a consultation with Dr. Nivedita Dadu at Dr. Nivedita Dadu’s Dermatology Clinic.

Five Effective Ways to Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

1. Try to Manage Weight

Keeping weight gain under control is one of the best methods to avoid stretch marks. Rapid weight gain can stretch the skin, leaving streaks and markings that become more apparent after weight loss. One must eat a balanced diet and consult the dermatologist about effectively managing weight gain during pregnancy. Keeping an eye on the scale will help one avoid developing stretch marks by gradually gaining weight.

2. Keep the Skin Moisturised and Massage the Skin

Regularly moisturising the skin will help strengthen the lipid barrier and help improve its elasticity. Ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter and glycerine will help deal with the marks. To help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, massage in a circular motion onto the pregnant belly, hips and breasts twice a day.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important during pregnancy for various reasons. Water helps carry the nutrients to the growing foetus. A proper hydration level can help with swelling and fatigue and even relieve morning sickness. If one is well hydrated, the skin becomes softer. Softer skin is less likely to get stretch marks than dry skin. Keeping the skin well hydrated will also aid in improved skin restoration and prevent stretch marks. One may prevent dry skin by removing hydrating beverages, such as coffee, from the diet.

4. Follow a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is important for the baby’s growth. Also, stretch marks might occur if one is missing certain nutrients. A balanced pregnancy diet should include sufficient amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D, and zinc to help prevent stretch marks. Another important aspect of preventing stretch marks is ensuring one takes enough protein. One needs to eat various foods from each food group to achieve the daily objective of consuming the proper amounts of nutritious foods. These categories include grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and protein-rich foods.

5. Add Vitamin D

Vitamin D can help one avoid stretch marks during pregnancy. Be cautious when exposed to direct sunlight, especially during pregnancy, as the skin tends to be sensitive. With this in mind, a few minutes in the sun during pregnancy can help boost vitamin D to avoid stretch marks.

Conclusion