As your pregnancy advances, you experience different changes in your body. The size of your belly increases, which stretches your skin. This can lead to the development of stretch marks on your abdomen, thighs, and back.

Getting a little knowledge about what stretch marks are may help you understand why they develop and how you can get rid of them after pregnancy.

What Are Stretch Marks?

When your skin stretches or shrinks rapidly, it results in the development of stretch marks. When abrupt changes occur in the skin, it tears the collagen and elastic fibers. These fibers are responsible for supporting the skin. When the skin heals, it leaves behind scars and parallel lines, known as stretch marks [1].

During pregnancy, 90% of women develop stretch marks [2]. However, stretch marks do not develop in some lucky women, and the reason behind this is not clear. But stretch marks are more likely to develop in those women who have a family history like their mother and/or sisters who also developed stretched marks in their pregnancies. This points to the fact that genetics may have a role in the development of stretch marks [3].

 

How To Minimize Stretch Marks After Pregnancy?

Stretch marks like any scar are permanent, but they become less noticeable with treatment [1]. There is still hope to get smooth skin free from stretch marks.

1. Proper Hydration: When skin cells have a sufficient supply of water, they efficiently repair themselves. This means your skin has a better chance of recovering from stretch marks after pregnancy when you drink at least eight glasses of water a day [4].

2. Moisturizing The Skin: Using a good moisturizer helps keep the skin bright and smooth. Additionally, it preserves the outer layer of skin and its elasticity. This works as a bonus in the healing process of stretch marks [5].

3. Topical Treatments: There are many creams, lotions, and gels available in the market. You can also ask your doctor to prescribe you one. Such topical products are recommended to use as early as possible on the stretch marks. Properly massage with these products because treatment is more effective when massaged gently on the skin [1,6].

4. Home Remedies: You can get rid of these stretch marks by using some home remedies. Make an egg white peel. Egg whites contain proteins, magnesium, riboflavin, and potassium that make skin healthy. Aloe vera can be used for its healing and soothing properties. Make a scrub with almond oil, sugar, and a few drops of lemon to exfoliate the skin. Exfoliation helps in removing the dead cells, and lemon helps in the lightening of the pigmentation [5,6].

5. Eat Well: Having a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, good fats like olive oil, nuts, avocados, and lean proteins, as well as in minerals and vitamins, not only helps in keeping skin healthy but also aids in the healing process of scarred tissues [4,5].

 

The Bottom Line:

Stretch marks after pregnancy will not disappear magically overnight, especially if you have a family history of it. Stick with all the treatment options and relax. Treatment options available are effective but it takes time to produce results.

 

 

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References: 

1. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them. Retrieved from: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear

2. Tunzi M, Gray GR. Common Skin Conditions During Pregnancy. AFP. 2007 Jan 15;75(2):211–8. 

3. Beeversj. Are Stretch Marks Genetic? Your No. 1 Question Answered. Mamamio. 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mioskincare.co.uk/mamamio-blog/pregnancy/stretch-marks-genetic/

4. The Woman’s Clinic. How To Treat Stretch Marks After Pregnancy. The Woman’s Clinic. 2015. Available from: https://www.arobgyn.com/how-to-prevent-stretch-marks-during-pregnancy-and-how-to-treat-them-when-you-cant/

5. The 11 Best Ways To Heal Pregnancy Stretch Marks After Giving Birth. Mustela USA.Retrieved from: https://www.mustelausa.com/blogs/mustela-mag/the-11-best-ways-to-heal-pregnancy-stretch-marks-after-giving-birth

6. Anthony K. 6 Ways to Get Rid of White Stretch Marks. Healthline. 2018. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/health/white-stretch-marks

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