Stretch marks: an ugh-inducing unfortunate reality that about 90 percent of pregnant mamas have to deal with, are often considered one of the most dreaded side effects of pregnancy (don’t even get us started on cankles…). While skin is pretty flexible, it’s the drastic and rapid increase in the size of one’s body during pregnancy that is responsible for disrupting its typical adaptability. As our bodies grow, the dermis (middle layer of our skin) slowly stretches to accommodate growth. During pregnancy, the body grows at a much faster rate than the dermis can keep up with, causing it to tear and reveal stretch marks.
While there are a multitude of ways to prevent the formation of stretch marks during your pregnancy, the best defense begins with improving skin elasticity. This can be accomplished by maintaining proper hydration (don’t skimp on the recommended 10 cups of water a day), eating right (antioxidants are your friends), and keeping skin soft and supple 24/7.
When it comes down to preventing and treating stretch marks during pregnancy, just remember, grabbing that favorite bottle of lotion off of your nightstand probably isn’t going to do the trick. We’ve got you covered with our favorite stretch mark products products that are safe for mom and baby, AND actually make a difference.
1. Glow Organics Belly Butter -$24.99
Currently housing a little belly tenant sans stretch marks? This belly butter is Mom-Approved and a great preventative measure that improves your skin’s elasticity. It’s unscented too, so no need to worry about strong funky scents.
2. Mambino Oh baby! Anti-Stretch Body Oil -$16.00
This stretch mark oil is a Mama favorite with moisturizing oil that helps prevent and minimize the appearance of stretch marks. Plus, it doesn’t leave your skin with a weird oily residue, just a luxurious feeling that also soothes itchiness!
3. Earth Mama Belly Oil -$14.99
Soft and smooth pregnancy bump? Sign you up! This 5-star Mom rated Belly Oil keeps your bump smooth through your entire pregnancy. Plus, it helps your skin stay nourished while minimizing the appearance of stretch marks.
4. 1970 Skincare Love Lines Stretch Mark Scar Balm -$29.99
Give yourself the luxury treatment, this balm using a radical blend of flower power and healing oils traditionally used to help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
For the majority of moms-to-be, stretch marks are an inevitable part of the pregnancy process. Whether you decide to rock your mama stripes or get rid of them altogether, just remember your body is beautiful either way.