Stretch Mark Care and Prevention During Pregnancy

Pregnancy stretch marks (striae gravidarum) are marks that form in the lower layers of the skin as a result of rapid stretching. They appear in the vast majority of pregnant women. The biggest determining factor is genetic predisposition — if your mother had stretch marks, you may have a higher likelihood as well.

Factors that can increase stretch mark formation: Rapid weight gain, large baby, multiple pregnancy, insufficient skin moisture, and dry skin type are among them. Stretch marks usually form on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, and upper arms.

Prevention and care: Regular moisturizing twice daily starting from the beginning of the 2nd trimester can be beneficial. Products containing cocoa butter, shea butter, almond oil, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and bio-oil are preferable. Applying with massage movements supports blood circulation.

Realistic expectations: No cream can guarantee 100% stretch mark prevention — but regular care can reduce risk and lessen the severity of stretch marks. New stretch marks are initially red-purple in color and fade over time. These marks are part of the great transformation your body has undergone.