At least half of all pregnant women get stretch marks as their pregnancies progress. Stretch marks are often caused by genetics and the way your belly grows as your baby develops. While stretch marks will naturally fade away after pregnancy, you may be tempted to try to prevent or get rid of them while you are pregnant. Some stretch mark treatments could affect your pregnancy, so talk to your doctor if you plan to take supplements, alter your diet or use an alternative medicine to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
Step 1
Eat a healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits and whole grains to ensure proper weight gain. Women that are at a healthy weight are generally encouraged to only gain 25 to 35 lbs. while pregnant. Rapid or excessive weight gain will cause greater stretch marks.
Step 2
Keep up with a healthy workout routine. Exercise can prevent excessive weight gain and keep stretch marks to a minimum. Talk to your doctor about healthy exercise during pregnancy.
Step 3
Drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Water strengthens and replenishes your skin constantly and getting enough is essential for healthy skin during pregnancy.
Step 4
Take vitamin supplements --- but only with your doctor's approval. Your prenatal vitamins may suffice, but make sure you are getting enough vitamins E and C, zinc and silica for collagen and elastin fibers, the building blocks of healthy skin.
Step 5
Apply topical ointments specifically designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Lotions that contain vitamin E and alpha hydroxy acids are best. Ointments with tretinoin are not safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your physician if you want to lessen the appearance of stretch marks after pregnancy. Laser treatments and other techniques may help once you have delivered your baby.
- Alternative treatments or home remedies, such as taking castor or olive oil, using herbs or fruits or certain ointments or medications have not been proven effective at reducing or preventing stretch marks and some may be harmful. Talk to your doctor before beginning any stretch mark prevention technique or treatment.
