Stretch marks are genetic. You are either passed down elastic skin or you aren't. During pregnancy, your skin stretches to make more room for the baby. If you don't have the proper elasticity in your skin, it will stretch as far as it needs to, leaving your body with the stripes of motherhood. However, there are measures you can take to help minimize the appearance of stretch marks. Below is a list of simple things you need to do every day to protect the areas most prone to stretch marks during pregnancy.
Stay Hydrated
One of the most important things to remember during pregnancy is to drink water, and lots of it. Water helps keep your skin hydrated, which helps with the elasticity in your skin. The more water you drink, the better off your skin will be. Listen to your body's cues. If your lips are dry or you are feeling faint, you may be dehydrated because they are signs you are not getting enough water. Your body needs more water now that you are pregnant, so you need to be drinking fourteen pints of water a day, which is equivalent to about seven liters a day.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is great to use when you want to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. It is full of fatty acids that give your skin the nutrients that it needs to stay strong and elastic. After your shower every morning, apply this ingredient to your skin. Take a finger full of coconut oil and rub it together until it forms an oil and massage over your skin, paying special attention to the stomach, arms, thighs and breasts. These are the areas on your body that are the most prone to stretch marks.
Eggs Whites
Eggs whites are amazing for the skin because they are full of protein. Protein is necessary in order to strengthen your skin. They are also full of amino acids which help your skin to maintain its elasticity. After you take your shower, whisk four egg whites together and apply it liberally to your skin. You may need more egg whites if you notice stretch marks in various places on your body. When you wash it off, apply a thin layer of lotion to keep the area moisturized.
Getting stretch marks during pregnancy all depends on your genes. There are, however, ways you can minimize the appearance of stretch marks and how deep them come in. By using one of the homemade solutions listed above, you will be well on your way to disguising your stripes.
You can also look into getting an over-the-counter stretch mark cream, which you can find in local pharmacies and stores, such as Apothederm.
