S T R E T C H M A R K S

Stretch marks.  Nobody wants them, but sometimes, it's inevitable.  Your body is doing a lot of growing to accommodate your baby.  A few stretch marks aren't the end of the world, and most of them should fade over time, but here's what you can do to help prevent, or at least minimize them.

First of all, stretch marks are believed to be hereditary, so you do not have 100% control over whether or not you will get them.  What you can do, is make sure that your skin stays hydrated.  Drink LOTS of water, and eat well.  Healthy skin will have the most elasticity.  Skin is your body's biggest organ - take care of it!

I applied the following products throughout my pregnancy:

Bio-Oil

Bio-Oil is super hydrating, but it is an oil, so you may not want to put it on before getting dressed... I think it's best applied after the shower, while your skin is still moist.  I didn't mind getting my pj's oily, but I didn't want to go to work looking like I forgot what a shower was.  It's REALLY oily.  The instructions suggest you apply, (and I quote), "During pregnancy, it should be applied from the start of the second trimester to areas that are prone to stretch marks such as the abdomen, breasts, lower back, hips, buttocks and thighs."

The Body Shop Cocoa Butter Hand and Body Lotion

The Body Shop Cocoa Butter Hand and Body Lotion.  I didn't LOVE this product, but I still went through an entire bottle.  I used it on my thighs and bottom mainly.  It smells pretty good, but doesn't feel thick enough to really coat and sink into the skin.   It claims to, "boost your skins elasticity and suppleness... best for pregnant women to help prevent stretch marks."

Therapy Massage Bar by LUSH

Therapy Massage Bar by LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics.  My brothers girlfriend got this for my birthday.  This little bar just melts upon skin contact, so you'll want to store it in a moisture free area (not in the bathroom).  You just rub it in your hands and then into your skin.  It "moisturizes with cocoa and shea butters to make your hard skin get softer and supple. All of the essential oils and butters in Therapy are certified organic..."  Wondering about the design on top of the bar?  1 out of 4 babies are born with outie belly buttons!  Love! 








I have also heard great things about Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula, Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks.  I've never tried it, so I can't offer an honest review, but several of my friends have tried it and liked it. 







Amy