Preventing Stretch Marks

.

75 to 90 percent of pregnant women will develop stretch marks during their pregnancy. This is when the old adage, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," comes in handy. Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be at the mercy of genetics. Just because your Mother got those red striations on her thighs, stomach and hips doesn't necessarily mean you will—but the odds are against you.

Preventing Stretch Marks Tips

This is why it is important to find ways to prevent or at least minimize the appearance of stretchmarks. You can do so by utilizing a series of simple procedures. For the most part, these tips will also apply to preventing bodybuilding stretch marks as well as those caused by rapid weight gain.

Use Aloe Vera and Cocoa Butter

These time honored ingredients, when used daily, can greatly benefit your skin and won't harm your baby. It can also make the skin more resilient and elastic, which will keep it from tearing. The sooner you start applying these two items, the better your chances of avoiding stretch marks.

When you are pregnant, get your doctor's blessing for anything you put on your skin. Those who are not pregnant or breastfeeding can seek stronger formulas for preventing stretch marks.

Water, water, water

Increasing your water intake can't be stressed enough. Not only will it aid in relieving the constipation that seems to be one of the most prevalent ills of pregnancy, it will keep the skin hydrated, which of course, keeps it elastic, thus preventing stretch marks.

Exercise

Walking and trotting lightly on the treadmill is one way to staying in shape and keeping the skin happy and glowing! Shortly after the baby is born, be sure to continue your rituals. This will be especially important if a few stretch marks showed up after the delivery. If you keep at it, even those marks will fade to oblivion.

Manage your weight gain

I know, I know, easier said than done. When Junior wants a hamburger at 2 am in the morning, he has to have it! However, blindly following those cravings can make you add on pounds that aren't necessary, and can be harmful in the long run. Doctors say that a woman should gain between 24-35 pounds during her pregnancy. Maintaining healthy and beneficial weight gain will help the skin grow slowly, aiding in preventing stretch marks.

Preventing Stretch Marks: Final Word

But remember, the real trick to preventing stretch marks is to start a healthy skin maintenance ritual them before they even begin. This will put you ahead of the game, and guarantee a greater chance of realizing to your goals.