Stretch Mark Cream

From LoveToKnow Pregnancy

If you are worried about getting stretch marks, you may be considering stretch mark cream.

Stretch Mark Cream

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks develop when your expanding skin is stretched beyond its natural limits. This causes small tears to appear in the supporting layers of skin. The result is a series of unsightly bright red lines that will generally fade to a pinkish or silvery color as time passes.

Unfortunately, between 75 and 90 percent of all pregnant women can expect to develop stretch marks. The risk is even higher for women with light complexions. Stretch marks commonly appear on the abdomen, but may also develop on the breasts, buttocks, arms, thighs, and arms. Stretch marks most often become visible during the seventh month of pregnancy.

Can I Prevent Stretch Marks?

Experts disagree as to whether or not stretch marks can be completely prevented. Since genetic factors appear to play a role in the development of stretch marks, some women may be simply more prone to developing this condition. If your mother was bothered by stretch marks during her pregnancy, you could be at a higher risk than someone without this family history. However, eating a proper diet, taking your prenatal vitamins, and drinking plenty of water can help reduce stretch marks by keeping keep your weight gain within the recommended 25 to 35 pound range.

If you’re extremely concerned about developing stretch marks, using a stretch mark cream on a regular basis may help reduce your risk by keeping your skin moisturized. Most stretch mark creams, oils, and treatments contain ingredients that enhance collagen production and help the skin withstand rigorous stretching. For best results, stretch mark treatment products should be used on a daily basis throughout your pregnancy and post-partum recovery period.

Stretch Mark Creams, Oils, and Treatments

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula is the most well-known stretch mark cream for pregnant women. In fact, Palmer’s is the number one brand of cocoa butter products worldwide. Approved by dermatologists, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula features a special combination of cocoa butter, collagen, vitamin E, and elastin. Inexpensive and widely available, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula lubricates the skin while helping retain its natural elasticity.

Bath & Body Works, a popular manufacturer of fragrances, lotions, and shower gels, has created a Stretch Mark Solution Body Butter that can help reduce your risk of developing stretch marks during pregnancy. Part of the Pure Simplicity line, this product uses natural cocoa and a unique blend of antioxidants to soothe and moisturize your skin. Coordinating body washes, creams, and balms are also available.

If you’re looking for an organic stretch mark cream, Earth Mama Angel Baby Soothing Stretch Oil is a unique product that helps reduce your risk of developing stretch marks while relieving the unpleasant itching sensation caused by your rapidly growing belly and breasts. Earth Mama Angel Baby Soothing Stretch Oil contains a hypoallergenic blend of natural ingredients such as chamomile and calendula. Unlike other stretch mark treatment products, Earth Mama Angel Baby Soothing Stretch Oil feels light on your skin and features a pleasant smell. If you wish, this product can also be massaged into your perineum to help prevent tears and episiotomies during childbirth. Available at ComfyMama.us, DoulaShop.com and BellyGifts.com


 


Comments

I agree with Milissa! Spoiled Mamas products are great and made with organic ingredients. The Tummy butter and bump gloss are amazing and smell so yummy! After my 1st pregnancy my son had really sensitive skin and their No Nuts (nut free) baby oil was erfect for him! The company has great products and is really good about offering discounts and free samples with order (all I did was call and ask ;)

-- Contributed by: Joanna

I have used TUMMY BUTTER by The Spoiled Mama for both my pregnancies and HIGHLY recommend it! My family is known to get stretch marks during pregnancy and I searched everywhere for natural and/or organic creams and oils. I came accross this company online and have been sold ever since. Both of my pregnancies I had 8 lb boys and didnt get ANY STRETCH MARKS!!! I love that the company is very customer service friendly and was happy to answer the array of questions I had regarding their ingredients and what would be the best products to prevent stretch marks. They say stretch marks are hereditary but I believe that you can be proactive and drink lots of water, take omega-3's, and use a natural (petroleum free) lotion/oil that will be absorbed by by your skin to help prevent them.

-- Contributed by: MILISSA

I first bought the Aloe & Jojoba Therapy (from Made from Earth) and finished it within a matter of weeks. I wished I had bought more because I liked it so much.

I look forward to putting this product on every night because the oil stays on your skin for a long time and it feels good to massage the skin with small circular motions. It is thicker and more durable compared to the other lotions I have tried. It seems to help retain the elasticity in stretched belly skin and baby moves a lot every time I apply it..plus its chemical free and safe for pregnant healthy mothers...i buy mine online @ madefromearth.com

i found cheaper prices there than in sephora...

-- Contributed by: lisa m
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