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Stretch Marks in Pregnancy

Discover causes, preventive methods and treatments for pregnancy stretch marks

Whats in the article:

Stretch Marks in Pregnancy: Where Do They Appear?

Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched rapidly due to growth or weight gain, which happens during pregnancy. Common areas include the stomach, thighs, breasts, hip and buttocks. Stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy, so you should try and embrace them as a reminder of growing your beautiful baby. 

What do Pregnancy Stretch Marks Look Like?

Pregnancy stretch marks are long, narrow streaks or lines that develop on the skin. Typically red, purple, or pink when they first appear and may fade to a silvery or white colour over time. They have a slightly indented texture and can be itchy or uncomfortable.

When Do Stretch Marks Appear During Pregnancy?

Stretch marks usually develop during the later stages of pregnancy, but this can vary from person to person. Most women start noticing them around the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy, as the abdomen and breasts expand, putting pressure on the skin's elasticity. The appearance varies due to genetics, skin type, and weight gain. Not all women experience them to the same extent during pregnancy.
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2 Main Causes of Stretch Marks in Pregnancy

woman applying NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark Body Oil Serum
  1. Skin Stretching Due to Rapid Weight Gain:
    As the baby grows, the mother’s body undergoes changes, leading to quick weight gain, particularly in the abdomen, breasts, and thighs. This rapid stretching causes the skin's elastic fibers to break, resulting in stretch marks. 

  2. How Hormones Affect Skin Elasticity:
    During pregnancy, increased levels of hormones such as cortisol and estrogen can affect the dermis, the middle layer of the skin. These hormones cause the skin to become more fragile and less elastic, making it more prone to developing stretch marks when stretched rapidly. 

4 Tips on How to Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

  1. Keep the Skin Hydrated:
    Hydrated skin is more elastic and can better withstand the stretching that occurs during pregnancy. 
  2. Recommended Products:
    Regularly applying moisturising products like Vitamin E and Almond Oil that may help maintain skin hydration and elasticity. Try the NIVEA Rich Nourishing Body Lotion enriched with a combination of caring ingredients, including NIVEA's Deep Moisture Serum, Almond Oil, and Vitamin E, this body lotion protects the skin and delivers intense deep moisture. 
  3. Nutrients that Support Skin Health:
    Consuming foods rich in Vitamins C and E, Zinc, and protein can enhance skin health and improve its ability to stretch without tearing. 
  4. Daily physical activity:
    Practising a sport or physical activity adapted to the stage of pregnancy promotes blood circulation and helps to limit weight gain and the risk of diabetes.
Facts Overview

Pregnancy Stretch Marks

What are Pregnancy Stretch Marks:
They are streaks on the skin caused by the accelerated stretching of the skin 

What Do They Look Like:
Initially appearing as pink, red, or purple lines that typically fade to silvery-white. 

Causes:
They develop when the skin stretches rapidly, which is often the case during pregnancy. 

Prevention Tips:
Stay hydrated, moisturise regularly aim for gradual weight gain by, maintaining a healthy diet, and incorporate regular exercise to support skin elasticity. 

How To Treat Stretch Marks In Pregnancy

Hydration is key when treating stretch marks during pregnancy, here are your top tips for applying moisturiser:

Choose the Right Moisturiser:

Opt for a moisturiser that is formulated for sensitive skin and safe for use during pregnancy. Look for ingredients like Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Almond Oil, or Vitamin E, which are known for their hydrating properties.
NIVEA Nourishing Body Lotion

Apply Moisturiser Daily:

Use moisturiser in your daily skin routine, especially after bathing or showering when skin is slightly damp, to lock in moisture and maintain soft, elastic skin. Generously massage the moisturiser using circular motions to areas prone to stretch marks, such as the abdomen, breasts, hips, and thighs.
Body Moisturisers
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How to Treat Stretch Marks After Pregnancy

Stretch Marks often fade over time but if you are looking to speed up the process then look for skincare products specifically designed for stretch marks.
NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark Body Oil Serum

NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark Body Oil Serum

Post pregnancy, experience the benefits of NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark Body Oil Serum, designed to visibly reduce stretch marks from the first application and throughout 2 weeks.   

The unique oil-serum formula, with the patented molecule Luminous 630, balances the skin's natural melanin production, softening the contrast between stretch marks and the surrounding skin.

 

NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark & Dark Spots Cream

Pair your Body Oil Serum with the NIVEA Luminous630 Anti-Stretch Mark & Dark Spots Cream to help further reduce the appearance of stretch marks, while also visibly reducing sun blemishes and pigment spots. The effective moisturising cream has a lightweight texture which lightly moisturises your skin without leaving a greasy feel. 

What Do Stretch Marks Look Like After Pregnancy?

After giving birth, stretch marks typically undergo changes in appearance. Initially, they may appear pink or reddish due to inflammation caused by the stretching of the skin during pregnancy. Over time, usually within several months to a year postpartum, stretch marks often fade to a lighter, silvery colour.

Summary

It's important to remember that stretch marks are a completely natural part of pregnancy. Normally appearing during the later stages of pregnancy as the skin stretches to accommodate fetal growth it can be challenging to completely prevent them. Maintaining skin hydration with moisturisers during and after pregnancy, drinking lots of fluids, and managing weight gain through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce their appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are stretch marks preventable?

While they can't always be prevented entirely, keeping the skin well-hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight may reduce their severity.

Do stretch marks go away after pregnancy?

Stretch marks often fade and become less noticeable over time, but they may not disappear completely.

Are stretch marks painful?

Stretch marks themselves are typically not painful, but the skin can feel tight or itchy as they develop.

Will losing weight after pregnancy make stretch marks disappear?

Losing weight may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but they often remain visible.

How long does it take for stretch marks to fade?

It varies but stretch marks may fade significantly within months to years post-pregnancy.

Can stretch marks be permanent?

While they may lighten over time, stretch marks can be permanent. 

Can stretch marks affect self-esteem during and after pregnancy?

Yes, some individuals may feel self-conscious about their stretch marks, but they are a common and natural part of pregnancy.

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