Stretch marks during pregnancy: prevention, remedies. Stretch marks: how to get rid of and prevent their appearance How to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy

Stretch marks are a specific problem of pregnancy. The appearance of stretch marks does not cause a woman such physical discomfort as, for example,. But this problem brings many women psychological distress and even suffering, even depression.

This article provides information on how you can prevent or reduce the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy and what means and when you can get rid of them after the birth of your baby.

What are stretch marks

What stretch marks on the stomach look like during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a wonderful period of birth of a new life. However, joy and trepidation at this time are often overshadowed by anxiety about the loss of one’s own attractiveness.

A woman's body changes a lot during the 9 months of waiting for a baby. Towards the end of the term, the weight increases. Normally, its gain ranges from 9 to 14 kg, but sometimes the expectant mother gains significantly more. These changes are reflected in the appearance of the skin. It’s no wonder that one of the common concerns of pregnant women is the appearance of stretch marks or stretch marks.

They represent a defect in the skin that begins to thin in areas of strong tension. The fibers of the epidermis are greatly stretched and torn, and the gaps are filled with connective tissue. As a result, long, narrow, wavy furrows appear, most often located on the abdomen, mammary glands and thighs of expectant mothers.

At first, the stretch marks are quite bright and can be colored red-violet. Then they lighten, become pale, looking like faded scars.

Why stretch marks appear during pregnancy

Stretch marks in one form or another form on the skin of about 75% of pregnant women. However, how to assess the risk of their occurrence? After all, for some expectant mothers they are completely invisible, while for others they remain in the form of a network of pale scars, reminiscent of the past pregnancy.

It's all about individual characteristics body, but there are factors that influence the appearance of stretch marks:

• Genetic predisposition. If the skin of a woman’s closest relatives remains marked after pregnancy, then her chances of encountering stretch marks increase.
• Dry skin. Those with dehydrated skin that is prone to flaking will most likely find narrow stripes of stretch marks on the abdomen or mammary glands. This is due to a violation of the elasticity and firmness of the skin, in the cells of which collagen production is reduced.
• Fast weight gain. Pregnant women who do not monitor their diet risk exceeding the norm for weight gain. Extra pounds that appear in a short time reduce the chances of the skin also quickly stretching without leaving marks.
• Hormonal disorders. Women with endocrine system problems are more susceptible to stretch marks.
• Light pale skin. According to statistics, dark-skinned girls are less likely to develop stretch marks.

Prevention of stretch marks during pregnancy. Specific means

Regardless of your predisposition to stretch marks, all pregnant women are advised to pay attention to nutrition and hydration of parts of the body that are at particular risk.

Crema

Using creams for stretch marks

One of the signals indicating the imminent formation of stretch marks is the appearance of characteristic itching on the skin. Most dermatologists recommend applying to these areas nourishing creams from stretch marks.

Currently, there are several manufacturers of specialized cosmetics that have proven themselves on the market: Avent, Mustela, Bepanten, Vichu, La Roche-Posay, Baby teva.

The active components of most of these products are aimed at:

• hydration (aloe vera, cocoa butter, hyaluronic acid, collagen, pantothenic acid, grape seed extract);
• increasing elasticity (elastin, grapefruit seed extract, vitamins A E);
• acceleration of metabolic processes and improvement of regeneration (retinyl palmitate, Shea butter, glycolic acid, multivitamins)

For best results, lubricate warm skin after a bath or shower. At this moment, the blood flow in it increases, it is freed from dead fibers of the epidermis. This allows you to increase the effectiveness of the cream components and retain the water remaining after a shower on the surface.

Oils

Oils for stretch marks during pregnancy

One more effective remedy One way to combat stretch marks is to use oils. Unlike creams, they do not moisturize the skin, but only retain their own moisture. But they contain more components that provide nutrition and regeneration. They do an excellent job of increasing skin elasticity, making it soft and elastic.

To prevent the appearance of stretch marks, natural oils are most often used:

• coconut;
• almond;
• olive;
• peach;
• linen;
• cocoa beans
• wheat germ
• grape seed.

There are also cosmetic oils, which are a complex combining several natural and essential oils.

The most common include products from manufacturers Weleda, La Roche-Posay, Mama Comfort, Sanosan and others.

Oils are applied with massage movements to the most problematic areas of the skin. It should be remembered that regular use is important to achieve results.

Nonspecific means of preventing stretch marks during pregnancy

In addition to directly applying cosmetics to the surface of the skin, there are other methods for preventing stretch marks.

They do not act directly, but work to normalize metabolic processes in the body. This allows them to successfully combat the causes of skin loss of firmness and elasticity.

Maternity underwear

In order to remove excess stress from the expectant mother’s body and protect her from the appearance of stretch marks, special underwear is widely used.

This includes: bras and supportive panties for pregnant women, bandages. Their main function is to provide additional support to a woman’s expanding breasts and abdomen, and to protect against excessive tissue stretching.

Such underwear does not compress the skin and does not interfere with blood flow. This allows epidermal cells to promptly receive water and collagen necessary to maintain elasticity.

Light physical activity

Sport - as a prevention against stretch marks during pregnancy

The main principle is its low intensity.

Special fitness

In the modern world, an expectant mother can afford to play sports.

There are courses in yoga, water aerobics, Pilates and gymnastics for pregnant women.

Specially selected exercises taking into account structural features female body during this period, they allow you to maintain metabolic processes in tissues.

Massage

Self-massage is an effective way to increase blood flow in the skin. During pregnancy, movements should be smooth and careful.

You can use a waffle towel or washcloth to rub to warm up the skin. After such a massage, it will acquire a pinkish color, which indicates increased capillary function. Gentle massage movements are combined with the application of creams or oils for stretch marks.

It is important to remember that areas where itching is already felt should not be rubbed. It is also not recommended to actively stimulate the mammary glands.

Cold and hot shower

Prevention of stretch marks with a contrast shower

To strengthen the skin, increase its tone and elasticity during pregnancy, use a contrast shower.

The procedure consists of periodically changing cool and warm jets of water. It is quite effective in improving blood flow, but is only indicated for women with a normal pregnancy.

You must first consult with a gynecologist. He will determine the possible duration and safe temperatures.

How to remove stretch marks if they have already appeared

If stretch marks do appear, you can only cope with them without the help of a cosmetologist at the very beginning.

The moment the furrows on the skin begin to discolor, you will no longer be able to solve the problem on your own. Therefore, you need to deal with stretch marks almost as soon as they are discovered.

Cream to combat stretch marks at home

The use of self-made creams can be effective for eliminating only fresh, small stretch marks.

Among the remedies for these skin defects, the most widely used are
cream based on mumiyo and aloe.

Despite the fact that they speed up skin regeneration, there is no guarantee that such homemade creams will cope with stretch marks.

However, before using expensive procedures from a cosmetologist, you should try using these products regularly.

Cosmetic procedures for stretch marks

Old, discolored or large scars can be removed in the office of a cosmetologist. This can be done only after the birth of the child and completion of breastfeeding.

Procedures that help in the fight against stretch marks include:

• Mesotherapy. It consists of introducing a drug into the dermis that stimulates the production of elastane and collagen. The effect of mesotherapy will not be visible immediately, but over time, the stretch marks will begin to decrease and become almost invisible.
• Chemical peeling. Based on application to the skin chemicals, as a result of which the surface layers of the dermis are desquamated. A burn forms at the site of exposure to the drug, which recovers over time. Stretch marks are reduced.
• Laser stretch mark removal. It is carried out by penetrating the laser under the skin and polishing it. The effect of the procedure is noticeable within a week.
• Abdominoplasty. Represents surgical intervention, in which damaged areas of skin are removed.

Is it possible to get rid of stretch marks completely?

Unfortunately, the only way to completely get rid of stretch marks is through surgery.

Most cosmetic procedures make them less noticeable, but do not guarantee complete disappearance.

Solving this problem on your own is even more difficult. That is why it is important to remember about preventative measures to maintain healthy skin even during pregnancy.

Proper self-care, a balanced diet and physical activity can maintain female attractiveness.

conclusions

While expecting a baby, you should pay serious attention to the condition of your skin. However, it is difficult to guarantee protection from the appearance of stretch marks. You need to try not to get upset, but look at it from the other side.

It is quite possible to make stretch marks less noticeable, and let some residual effects be a reminder of a woman’s high purpose - to become a mother.

It’s not for nothing that writers, photographers and artists glorify the beauty of a woman’s figure during pregnancy. Indeed, a woman while expecting a baby evokes the admiration of those around her.

But for the expectant mother herself, a growing belly is not only a reason for pride, but also concern for the beauty of her own skin.

Almost all changes in the figure and skin that occurred during pregnancy can be eliminated after childbirth if desired and persistent. The only exceptions are stretch marks, which women are so afraid of.

What causes stretch marks during pregnancy?

It is widely believed that up to 90% of women are predisposed to the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy. What is the reason for this negative phenomenon? Why does a woman’s skin undergo such a test while expecting a baby?

It is common for human skin to adapt to external conditions and internal stimuli. It is easily stretchable and can be quickly restored. This elasticity and stress resistance is provided by collagen and elastin fibers.

When the skin is overstretched, the inner layers of tissue cannot withstand and tear. In such cases, through upper layer The epidermis exhibits unsightly scars, rich in microbruises. The tissues are quickly restored, but the consequences of such ruptures remain almost for life.

Over time, stretch marks lose their rich reddish, purple or Blue colour. Old stretch marks look like internal, whitish scars. Due to the lack of melanin in damaged tissues, such marks do not tan and after sunbathing stand out even more strongly on the skin.

The main predisposing factor during pregnancy for the appearance of stretch marks is, of course, a growing belly. Stretch marks begin to appear on the tummy due to excessive stretching of the skin.

But this process cannot be called natural. . After all, happy expectant mothers are often observed with a huge belly and absolutely smooth skin without blemishes. While in a miniature beauty, stretch marks may appear even before the baby’s rapid growth.

The appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy is associated with a whole complex of factors predisposing to a negative reaction, which in each case work unpredictably.

Restructuring of hormonal levels. Due to the increased production of progesterone, which is so necessary for bearing a fetus, the formation of collagen and elastin fibers is inhibited. The skin actually loses its natural elasticity, becomes too thin and is easily damaged.

Genetic predisposition. The individual properties of the skin are inherited by women. “Naturally thin skin” is nothing more than a gift from older relatives. Just as there is a predisposition to the appearance of early wrinkles, to loss of skin elasticity, to the rapid formation of bruises from injuries, there is a tendency to the formation of stretch marks.

Expectant mothers who:

Rapidly gain weight;

Do not adhere to a balanced diet;

Do not comply with the motor regime;

They do not receive enough vitamins necessary for the skin;

Belong to the older age group.

But this does not mean that it is impossible to avoid the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy. By approaching the problem comprehensively, you can significantly reduce the risks of a negative phenomenon.

What to do to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy?

Fighting stretch marks is not only possible, but also extremely necessary. The skin, losing elasticity and drying out, also loses its physiological abilities. The skin, as the largest organ of the body, is directly involved in metabolic and respiratory processes and maintains water balance in the body. Therefore, it is extremely important for a woman to maintain the health of her skin during pregnancy.

The problem with the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy must be solved only as a whole, taking care to provide the skin with the necessary building material, nutrition and moisture.

First of all, you need to reconsider your diet:

1. Proteins will help provide the skin with collagen. Chicken dietary meat is considered a safe protein for pregnant women.

3. Fruits and vegetables, due to their vitamin C content, promote accelerated synthesis of collagen fibers.

4. Dairy products and cottage cheese will help ensure calcium balance.

5. Potassium deficiency can be overcome by eating various cereals.

6. Don't forget about the beauty vitamin. Vitamin E is recommended for pregnant women from the first days. It not only supports healthy skin and hair, but also, being a powerful antioxidant, fights free radicals and other harmful substances. Therefore, a pregnant woman’s diet should contain vegetable oils and nuts.

You will have to forget about pastries and cakes. Sweets, especially when combined with fat, cause collagen to clump together, leaving skin rough and prone to injury.

In addition to nutrition, the complex of preventive measures must include:

1. Acceptable physical exercises. Regular exercise will help ensure stable blood flow and stretch muscle tissue.

2. Sufficient fluid intake. It is water that helps accelerate metabolic processes in the skin. But do not forget to control the volume of fluid you drink, especially if swelling is observed.

3. Wearing special underwear for pregnant women. Bras with wide straps and bandages will help support your significantly expanding belly and breasts, which will help prevent the skin from overstretching.

4. Control over weight gain. With rapid weight gain, stretch marks appear much faster.

Oil for stretch marks during pregnancy: types and composition

You won’t be able to cope with the problem of stretch marks using only advertised cosmetics. Beauty care, of course, is important and no one can cancel it. But, it should be remembered that many products are prohibited for use by pregnant women.

More gentle, but no less effective means for combating stretch marks include oils. They have nourishing and softening effects, which allows you to prevent the appearance of stretch marks and fight existing ones.

For pregnant women, the safety of oils is a huge plus. Thanks to the natural ingredients in the composition, they do not provoke negative reactions.

The choice of oils for pregnant women against stretch marks is quite extensive. The most popular include:

Nature's Alchemy – made on the basis of extra virgin olive oil. Approved for use at any stage of pregnancy as a massage or moisturizer. The oil has no aromatic fragrances, so it can be used as a base for homemade mixtures with esters.

Weleda – oil from Germany, which contains natural ingredients in the form of almond oil, wheat germ and arnica extract. Helps nourish and smooth the skin. Used for daily massages.

Now Solutions – remedy for stretch marks with almond oil. Provides softness and health of the skin of pregnant women. Thanks to its light structure, the oil is perfectly absorbed without clogging pores.

Enriched Coconut Oil ( Palmer's ) is the secret of the effectiveness of this remedy in its unique composition. In addition to the main ingredient - coconut oil, it contains elements in the form of:

Collagen;

Elastin;

Shea butter;

Coenzyme Q10;

Ginseng.

The product helps strengthen, regenerate and tighten the skin.

Enriched wheat germ oil. Jason Natural has created a natural mix of:

wheat sprouts;

Almonds;

Apricot;

Avocado;

Sunflower;

Vitamin E.

The oil is suitable for caring problem skin, helps restore its elasticity.

Cocoa butter for massage. Palmer's has created an excellent product for pregnant women based on:

Cocoa butter;

Shea butter;

Bio-elastin;

Vitamin E.

The product is effective not only in preventing the cosmetic consequences of pregnancy, but also in the fight against existing stretch marks.

Bio-Oil – is especially popular among pregnant women. This is the only product containing purcellin oil, which promotes the effective absorption of vitamins and extracts. The drug is approved for use after the fourth month.

Weleda with pomegranate – a multi-component product that occupies a leading position among oils for stretch marks developed for pregnant women. It has a restorative effect thanks to the oils it contains:

Grenade;

Macadamia nut;

Jojoba seed.

It is considered an anti-stress agent that restores strength and beauty to weakened skin.

Oil for stretch marks during pregnancy: how to choose?

When choosing oil for stretch marks during pregnancy, be guided not only by personal preferences of a particular brand. During this period, first of all, you need to worry about the safety of the product. That's why We start by studying the composition of the oil.

We immediately exclude products containing allergens. If you have an individual intolerance to certain ingredients, don't take risks.

Even if you are absolutely confident in the safety of the purchased product, conduct a preliminary allergy test.

When choosing oil, give preference to products containing basic amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Preparations enriched with vitamins A or E, C are also good.

Remember that during pregnancy It is strictly forbidden to use oils , which include:

Juniper;

Basil;

Fennel;

Nutmeg;

Rosemary;

Despite the manufacturer's assurances that the oil is safe and miraculous, if it contains prohibited components, do not take risks. Such components can provoke an increase in uterine tone, and even miscarriage.

Oil for stretch marks during pregnancy: when and how to use?

The effect of using oil against stretch marks during pregnancy will only be achieved with regular use. Short-term courses or periodically applying products will not give the desired result.

Therefore, applying healing oil should become a daily habit. Only in this case can you count on certain results.

The most common way to use oils is to apply them evening time, or even twice a day, apply massaging movements to all problem areas.

Other methods are also common in the form of:

Compresses used for local formation of stretch marks;

Baths with oils if stretch marks cover large areas;

Wraps that enhance the healing effect of oils.

To make procedures for combating stretch marks using oils as safe as possible, consult your doctor about the means and methods that are acceptable in a particular case.

The appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy is almost inevitable. While carrying a child, a woman’s belly enlarges, her skin stretches in some places, and hormonal changes and other changes also occur. It is therefore not surprising that after nine months of pregnancy appearance women can change. And if excess weight can be gradually relieved, it is almost impossible to get rid of stretch marks that look like scars. That's why the most important thing seems to be not how to get rid of them, but how to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy.

Use of creams

Advances in the cosmetology field have led to the appearance on the market of many types of creams and other cosmetic products that help cope with stretch marks. The most popular in this series are moisturizing creams and lotions. It is very important to start using them at the very beginning of pregnancy, even before the first signs of stretch marks begin to appear on the body. It is necessary to pay attention to the composition of creams and lotions, because while taking care of yourself during this important period, we must not forget about the health of the unborn child. The effectiveness of the product must be ensured only by natural ingredients, and the packaging must contain a mark stating that this or that cream is allowed to be used while carrying a baby. If there are no such marks on the packaging, then no matter how effective the product may seem, you cannot buy it.

To avoid the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy, the cream must be used constantly, at least twice a day. The product is applied to problem areas such as chest, abdomen, thighs. The skin should be clean and moist. The effectiveness of creams is based on the ability of wheat germ, fatty acids, vitamins and seaweed included in the product to soften the skin, nourish, moisturize and increase its elasticity.

It is worth noting that cream for stretch marks can be different types and for each part of the body, you will have to buy a different one. To avoid stretch marks on the abdomen during pregnancy, special herbal substances, natural oils and natural protein are added to the creams, while breast creams contain hypoallergenic components in significant quantities to prevent not only stretch marks, but also allergic reactions.

Preventive measures

Particular attention should be paid to other preventive measures. In solving the problem of stretch marks while carrying a child, a bandage and special bras for women carrying a child will help. It is very useful to take a cool shower and combine it with a firming breast massage, which tones the skin. Superficial peeling is also considered a good remedy for increasing skin firmness and elasticity. It is done with a massage mitt using an exfoliating cream.

Nutrition as prevention

Nutrition is just as important in the fight against stretch marks as the use of cosmetics. You need to eat a balanced diet; your diet must include vegetables and fruits, poultry, fatty fish, freshly squeezed juices and vitamin C, which increases collagen production. Excessive sugar consumption negatively affects the condition of the skin, so pregnant women need to limit their intake of sugar.

How to get rid of them

If during pregnancy it was not possible to prevent or minimize stretch marks, then you will have to deal with them after the birth of the child. One of the important points is the high amount of fluid consumed. Along with this, you need to continue to use creams against stretch marks twice a day.

If the preventive measures taken do not bring the desired result and stretch marks still appear, you will have to consult a cosmetologist. Young stretch marks can be easily removed using masotherapy or special vascular lasers. But against old ones you will have to use microcurrent therapy or microdermabrasion.

Sports activities

Even if you are pregnant, this does not mean that you can sit on the couch, eat and watch TV. Many women already lead a sedentary lifestyle, and during pregnancy they are even more overwhelmed by laziness to go somewhere or do something around the house. Stretch marks are often the result of sagging skin, the microvessels of which are weakened due to an unhealthy lifestyle.

We do not advise you to do fitness, pump up your abs or any other exercise. First of all, you need to consult with your doctor and let him, depending on your health and timing, suggest you certain exercises, for example, our employee was suggested by the doctor to do yoga in the first trimester, light aerobics in the second trimester, and advised to move more in the third. Other doctors may suggest the following classes for you:

• Pilates
• water aerobics
• breathing exercises
• backstroke
• fitball exercises
• step aerobics

And most importantly, when playing sports, listen to your body and your feelings, if your body requires rest, give it a rest, and also be attentive to yourself, do not forget about preventive measures and then, both before and after pregnancy, you will look great.

Updated: 09/19/2019 00:12:13

Expert: Boris Kaganovich

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Stretch marks, or stretch marks in scientific terms, are often the subject of panic for many not only pregnant women, but also those who have become overweight or who have quickly lost weight. The striae themselves are linear micro-tears in the connective tissue, when the macromolecules of elastin and collagen gradually “diverge to the sides” under the influence of external forces. At first, stretch marks appear as bright red stripes in pregnant women, as they are accompanied by microhemorrhages. Then they turn blue, then become white and flabby, and finally resemble scars with a slight shine on the surface.

If stretch marks are small, then after a few years they become almost invisible, but in the first months after pregnancy they bring a lot of cosmetic distress to their owners. Most often, stretch marks appear on the abdomen during pregnancy, less often on the buttocks and thighs, and on the chest. The main factor in the appearance of stretch marks on the skin of the abdomen will be the gradual enlargement of the pregnant uterus, and the special genetic predisposition of women. In addition, stretch marks appear faster when the skin is very dry, when the pregnant belly is rapidly enlarged, and when there is a small amount of collagen in the connective tissue structure. This means that the older the expectant mother is, the higher the risk of stretch marks.

The modern pharmaceutical industry produces a large number of different creams, oils and emulsions against the appearance of stretch marks in pregnant women. Many of them contain various components, which include various antioxidants, fat-soluble vitamins, skin-moisturizing glycerin, hyaluronic acid, elastin and collagen. But many of these constituents, such as B vitamins, large quantities, should not be taken during pregnancy, or even applied to the skin.

Therefore, in order to avoid an overdose of substances such as vitamin A or retinol, local prescriptions for pregnancy creams differ in their special composition. A pregnant woman choosing a cream for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks and stretch marks should pay attention to its composition. It should be hypoallergenic, and preferably consist of natural ingredients. You need to carefully study the instructions; the cream or emulsion for stretch marks should not contain harmful substances for the unborn child and the pregnant woman. And, of course, this cream must not cause allergies when tested on the skin, have a pleasant, not pungent odor, and must not have contraindications during pregnancy and lactation.

This rating includes the most popular and effective local remedies for stretch marks and the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy, which are over-the-counter remedies. And first we will consider creamy products.

The best remedies for stretch marks

The best creams for stretch marks during pregnancy

All creams for stretch marks in pregnant women are emulsions, that is, insoluble suspensions of active substances enclosed in micelles in the base substance of the cream. Therefore, they all have a light consistency and pleasant aroma, are quickly absorbed when rubbed in, do not stain clothes, and can be used as many times as needed. The rating presents the most effective foreign and domestic parapharmaceuticals for stretch marks during pregnancy.

Avent

Avent body cream is considered a complex product that is designed specifically to give elasticity to collagen structures. It contains seaweed extract, which contains elastic substances, amino acids and trace elements, almond and papaya oil, shea butter and a small amount of grapefruit and lemon extracts.

Stretch mark cream should be used in pregnant women after warm shower and washing the desired area of ​​the body. After this, you need to dry the skin, apply the cream, and thoroughly rub it into problem areas. It is necessary to use this cream, first of all, for prevention, and it must be applied for preventive purposes twice a day. The only exception is that you cannot apply the cream to the nipple area after pregnancy and childbirth, if breastfeeding. This cream is produced by the English company Avent Philips, and a package of 30 ml of cream costs around 830 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of this cream is its well-chosen composition, the absence of a strong odor that pregnant women cannot tolerate, good absorption and the ability to moisturize the skin for a long time. This remedy can be used during pregnancy and lactation. However, this cream has incomplete information in Russian, which is applied in the form of a sticker directly on the packaging; it costs quite a lot, given the small volume of the tube, is not available in all pharmacies and is most suitable for prevention. In the same case, if a pregnant woman who has given birth already has stretch marks, and especially old ones, then he is unlikely to be able to cope with them.

This cream for pregnant women is produced by the German company Mann and Schroeder. It contains jojoba oil, as well as an extract from hibiscus seeds. These active components help increase capillary blood circulation, intensively moisturize the skin, and maintain its firmness and elasticity. This cream can also be used as an anti-cellulite product.

Sanosan mama must also be applied to the skin twice a day; it does not contain any mineral oils or artificial dyes. The drug has been tested by the dermatological community and has no contraindications, except for individual intolerance in pregnant women. The average cost of a 100 ml tube is about 470 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The big advantage of this cream for stretch marks is the fairly large volume of the tube, and compared to the previous cream, such a purchase will be more affordable. The cream is capable of leaving it smooth and soft for 12 hours even when applied once to healthy skin; it can be used during pregnancy and lactation. The drug has been tested, is hypoallergenic, and in laboratory conditions it has shown the ability to induce the production of its own collagen.

However, this cream is considered too thick, like any good German cosmetics. Therefore, the product must be spread over the surface of the skin for a long time and it will be absorbed for a long time. The product also has a strong smell, and not everyone may like it. In addition, this cream does not fight old stretch marks, but only slightly reduces their color intensity. But at the same time, it slows down the formation of new stretch marks and prevents their appearance, so it is ideal to use it in the same way as the previous cream, as a means of prevention.

Mustela 9 months double action

This cream is indicated for all skin types, and just like the previous product, it is able to prevent the occurrence of new stretch marks, and slightly reduces the width and intensity of old ones. This cream contains natural ingredients: avocado fruit extract containing peptides, skin moisturizing shea butter, Japanese Sophora extract, arabinogalactan and a special patented elastane regulator. The cream is hypoallergenic, tested, and safe for the body of the unborn baby.

This cream is used for the prevention of stretch marks and stretch marks from the very beginning of pregnancy, and up to one month after childbirth. The drug is also used to treat stretch marks that have already appeared.

It must be applied to clean skin two to three times a day. This cream is produced by the famous French company Laboratorie Expanscience, owner of the Mustela trademark, and the average cost of one 150 ml tube is 1,300 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Mustela cream will be its fairly high activity not only in relation to prevention, but also in relation to fresh stretch marks. This cream is able to intensively moisturize the skin, it is light and pleasant smell which is well tolerated. You only need a small amount of cream per use, and the packaging volume of 150 ml allows you to use it for quite a long time. The cream is well absorbed and safe for the child's health. The disadvantages of this product still include the rather high cost, and not availability in all pharmacies. You can remain silent about individual intolerance, since it can occur with any cosmetic product, and even with ordinary water. Therefore, Mustela cream for stretch marks is one of the leaders in the rating in terms of effectiveness and balance between price and quality.

Vichy

This stretch mark cream from the famous French brand Vichy consists of proprietary ingredients. This is chemically pure glycerin combined with Vichy thermal water taken from a French spring. The cream contains silicon, which is indicated for the weakened epidermis surrounding stretch marks. The presence of silicon allows you to increase elasticity and give additional tone to the skin. This cream also contains a small amount of tocopherol or vitamin E, bassia oil, and the amino acid hydroxyproline. It stimulates collagen production.

This product can be applied to any type of skin, but you must first clean it and then rub it intensively into the problem area. Vichy cream copes best with stretch marks when applied for preventive purposes, as well as after contrast shower. To improve blood circulation, you can during use water procedure rub the problem area intensively with a massage sponge, scrub or even your palm. The product can be applied to intact skin, as well as directly to fresh stretch marks and stretch marks twice a day until completely absorbed. The cost of this cream ranges from 1125 rubles per 200 ml tube

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of this cream is the intensive prevention of stretch marks. It is indicated not only during pregnancy, but also during a sharp decrease in body weight. Despite the dense consistency of the cream, it is absorbed very well and quickly, has a subtle and pleasant smell, is hypoallergenic and safe for the baby. However, it is very difficult to measure the minimum effective dose, since it is instantly absorbed, and even when doubled or tripled, it is absorbed just as well. Therefore, the cost-effectiveness of this drug is low. Just like some other creams, Vichy does not cope with old stretch marks.

Finally, the rating of creams for stretch marks during pregnancy includes the drug Bepanten, which contains Dexpanthenol and is a tissue regeneration stimulator. It is indicated for a wide range of diseases and conditions accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the skin. Dexpanthenol is considered a provitamin, which in the skin is converted into another molecule, pantothenic acid, and it, entering the Kebs cycle, plays a very important role in the normalization of tissue structure and in the healing of various cracks, wounds, ulcers, including stretch marks and stretch marks, normalizes tissue metabolism.

Bepanten cream is indicated, in addition to fresh stretch marks, for the prevention of intense dry skin, with nipple dermatitis, and even with daily care behind the face and hands. It should be applied by rubbing lightly into the problem area two to three times a day. Bepanten is produced by the German pharmaceutical company Grenzach, and the cost of a 100 ml tube of cream is about 860 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Bepanten is its good tolerability, rapid absorption, it can also be used by pregnant and nursing mothers. There are a variety of volumes on sale, from 30 to 100 ml, and you can choose the amount you need. Bepanten is also sold in the form of an ointment, and therefore it can be applied at night for fresh stretch marks under a bandage. Bepanten fights dry skin very well and is also indicated for caring for baby skin, for example, for diaper rash and diaper dermatitis. However, Bepanten is unable to eliminate old stretch marks that have already appeared, and therefore it should be used only for prevention.

The best emulsions, oils and gels for stretch marks

In addition to creams, a good help for the prevention of stretch marks and in the fight against fresh elements that have already appeared will be various oil emulsions, as well as those diluted in the necessary way. basic basis essential oils of plants. Essential oils should never be used in their pure form, as they can cause an inflammatory reaction, allergies, redness of the skin, and increased blood pressure in a pregnant woman. And being absorbed into the blood and entering the placental bloodstream, they can have a negative impact on the unborn baby. Therefore, you need to use only special emulsions and oils for pregnant women, and not prepare them yourself, especially with the use of potent ingredients.

Of the oils used in folk medicine, the safest ones are: olive oil, almond and sea buckthorn, and other remedies, which will be discussed below. And in this section we will name those popular means for oil based, which are widely used in pregnant women for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks and stretch marks.

Weleda oil for the prevention of stretch marks

Weleda special oil for the prevention of stretch marks is produced by the manufacturer of the famous Weleda line, the German company of the same name. This oil contains only natural ingredients. These are sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, and wheat germ oil; the product composition is additionally enriched with arnica extract, which gives the oil a delicate and pleasant aroma. Weleda oil for the prevention of stretch marks does not contain mineral components, synthetic derivatives, preservatives or dyes.

This oil should be used in conjunction with a light massage on problem areas, or in the thighs, buttocks, abdomen and chest. The manufacturer allows the use of this massage oil in the very early stages of pregnancy. In order to avoid the appearance of stretch marks, you can use this oil with a light massage until the baby is three months old, that is, within 3 months after birth. This oil helps maintain skin elasticity not only during pregnancy, but also during lactation. One 100 ml bottle of Weleda stretch mark prevention oil costs an average of 1,260 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The big advantage of this perfume and parapharmaceutical composition is its natural composition, pleasant smell, easy absorption, good tolerance and safety for the baby. However, the price of more than 1,200 rubles is very high for a volume of oil of only half a glass (100 ml), taking into account that it is recommended for daily and repeated massage. Even taking into account economical consumption, this oil may last no more than a month of regular use. In addition, this oil is positioned by the manufacturer only for prevention, and therefore it is ineffective for the treatment of stretch marks.

The following remedy for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks and stretch marks is a nutritional emulsion produced by the well-known pharmaceutical company Bayer. It can also be used in pregnant women, starting from the first months, it improves the elasticity of the skin, makes it velvety, silky and smooth. It is intended mainly for the prevention of stretch marks, for moisturizing the skin, strengthening and for regular care, but is also used to treat fresh formations. The emulsion is hypoallergenic, tested by specialists, and does not contain artificial additives, dyes or various preservatives.

The emulsion contains such effective components as collagen and elastin, various vitamins, soy glycine, glycerin and silicone, essential oils that help improve skin elasticity, as well as purified water. The emulsion is used from the first days of pregnancy, and is applied to common problem areas with light movements until completely absorbed. According to reviews, usually one 150 ml bottle is enough for a month of regular use in all areas, and if stretch marks have already formed, then you need to apply this emulsion to the stretch marks in the form of applications, and keep it for half an hour twice a day. Since in this case the drug is not absorbed, it is then simply removed from the surface of the skin. One bottle of emulsion with a volume of 150 ml costs around 1100 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of this emulsion will be its high activity, and not only preventive, but also therapeutic. On the other hand, this emulsion may be contraindicated in case of individual intolerance and various skin lesions. These include wounds and pustular formations. The manufacturer also recommends refraining from using this drug in case of pregnancy pathology, which is manifested by late toxicosis, nephropathy and edema.

The famous pharmaceutical concern Johnson's Baby arrived in an original way. It produces about 6 varieties of different oils for the skin of newborns (basic, with aloe, with chamomile). And the manufacturer also recommends using them to moisturize the skin of pregnant women. Each of the oils is capable of retaining 10 times more moisture in the thickness of the skin and, according to the manufacturer, providing intense hydration. Unlike children, adults can use oil not only on dry, but also on wet skin.

Any of the oils can therefore be used, among other things, for the prevention of stretch marks; all products are hypoallergenic and safe for both pregnant and lactating women. You need to rub the oil onto problem areas with light movements; to prevent stretch marks, a course of rubbing twice a day is recommended for several months, starting from the first day of pregnancy. Basic oil, which is simply called baby oil, is quite inexpensive. For one bottle of 200 ml you can pay only 240 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

However, in each of these oil formulations there is no special prescription, which is intended for the prevention, and, especially, for the treatment of stretch marks. Of course, the cost of these oils is low, but it is also due to the fact that the main component here is not vegetable oil at all, but mineral oil obtained from petroleum. Despite the fact that this petroleum jelly oil is highly purified, it has no advantages over specially selected natural formulations, and especially the creams described above. And here side effects and allergic reactions in mineral oils, as clinical practice shows, are much more common. In addition, these oils are absorbed very slowly, and it is often necessary to remove excess with a napkin.

Baby Line for stretch marks before and after pregnancy

Unlike creams and emulsions, the gel is absorbed very quickly, leaves a protective film on the skin, and does not stain clothes. This water-based gel contains glycerin, panthenol, soda, tocopherol and a special perfume, in addition to additional components. It is specially designed for women carrying a child and is indicated for stimulating metabolism deep in the skin; its regular use helps improve elasticity. According to the manufacturer, the product is excellent for preventing stretch marks, and can improve the softness of the skin and even relieve muscle tension. This gel must be used twice a day, applying after a shower to problem areas. This product is produced by the German company Nolken GMBH, and one 150 ml tube of gel costs 350 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of this gel include fast absorption, conveniently selected components, and safety for mother and child. In addition, its price is low and consumption is minimal. But on the other hand, this gel has a specific smell, and may not be suitable for all pregnant women. In addition, as is often the case with gels, it contains denatured alcohol, and this is not always acceptable given the increased sensitivity of this period of a woman’s life.

Using simple oils and aromatic compositions for massage against stretch marks in pregnant women

In conclusion, it should be said about some simple vegetable oils that women can independently purchase in pharmacies and beauty salons. For stretch marks, it is preferable to use vegetable oils that contain unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins, penetrate deeply into the skin, and improve the synthesis of collagen and elastin.

1. Such natural and hypoallergenic oils include olive oil, which can be taken orally, and sea buckthorn oil, which remarkably improves the elasticity of the skin and increases its firmness. It is recommended to use almond oil a little less often. But those vitamins that are included in its composition make it possible to perfectly prevent the destruction of collagen and elastin, and at the same time restore the water-lipid balance of the skin. In addition, coconut oil, corn oil, flaxseed oil and even cocoa oil are actively used.
2. Typically, olive, corn or flaxseed oil can be used as a base oil, and various essential oils that work well on stretch marks are diluted in it.
3. Pregnant women should not use more than one drop essential oil for 10 drops of base, and the following are safe during pregnancy: rose, sandalwood, orange, anise, juniper, ylang-ylang.
4. After preparing the mixture of base and essential oil, it is necessary to conduct an allergy test by intensively rubbing the mixture of oils into the elbow area and waiting 15 minutes. If everything is in order and there is no redness or itching, then you can use this mixture as a massage of problem areas.
5. In order to make the process of preventing and treating stretch marks even more comfortable, you can mix the finished oil with various neutral creams to improve absorption. In some cases, you can even use yogurt or natural kefir instead of the base. If you add a mixture of essential oil for stretch marks and base oil to medicinal clay or seaweed, the result will be an excellent material for wrapping against stretch marks.
6. Of course, there are also essential oil crops that should be avoided by pregnant women, despite their high effectiveness. They are able to increase the tone of the uterine muscles, and even promote premature birth. Such remedies include wormwood and sage, parsley and rosemary, fennel and nutmeg. Therefore, in no case should you use these essential oil crops on your own, even for topical use during pregnancy to treat stretch marks and stretch marks.

Guys, we put our soul into the site. Thank you for that
that you are discovering this beauty. Thanks for the inspiration and goosebumps.
Join us on Facebook And In contact with

Stretch marks, also called by the frightening word “striae,” appear where the skin was, as you might guess, stretched, and so strongly and sharply that it simply tore from the inside. And then it became covered with scars. These are those same unfortunate scars. They spoil the blood not only of women who have undergone pregnancy, but also:

• teenagers who grew tall in one summer;
• athletes suffering from excessive physical exercise;
• bodybuilders playing with body mass and volume;
• people taking steroids with or without prescription;
• suddenly lost weight;
• suddenly gained weight;
• those who have enlarged the breasts and other parts of the body surgically;
• people simply with more thin skin than others;
• people with a hereditary predisposition;
• people with hormonal disorders;
• patients with Itsenko-Cushing syndrome, Marfan syndrome.

Drugs suitable for prevention but not for treatment

Unfortunately, it is not possible to completely get rid of stretch marks. This is not so scary, because they do not cause any harm to health. But if scars cause aesthetic dissatisfaction, you can make them less noticeable on the skin.

If you take on the fight against stretch marks with due persistence and patience, there is a chance to improve the condition of problem areas at home. And there is only one way to do this - mechanical.

Scrubs based on anything - sugar, honey, coffee - will have an effect just because they are scrubs. They exfoliate the top layer of raised scars and can gradually smooth them out. healthy skin . This will make stretch marks less noticeable.

Reliable professional methods

Of course, the best results can be achieved in the office of a specialist - a cosmetologist or even a surgeon. There are many ways to combat stretch marks using the latest techniques and high-tech devices.

• Peeling. Unlike a scrub, which uses gentle natural ingredients, aggressive chemical solutions are used for the peeling procedure. Local anesthesia is often necessary.
• Microdermabrasion. Real heavy artillery. A painful procedure involves removing several layers of the epidermis using aluminum oxide. It is assumed that after it, skin cells regenerate faster and better.
• Laser. Laser therapy is considered the most modern and effective in the fight against stretch marks. The same grinding principle applies here, but on a completely different level. The impact occurs not only on the upper, but also on the deep layers of the skin. This is a serious procedure, and for large areas to be treated it is even performed under general anesthesia. The advantages include affordable cost and low risk complications.
• Plastic. In the fight against stretch marks, you can resort to a full-fledged surgical operation, which involves removing and replacing the affected areas of the skin. Such operations are quite expensive, have many contraindications and a long recovery period - up to 8 months. In addition, they are fraught with consequences such as the appearance of new scars - postoperative scars.
• Mesotherapy. Subcutaneous injections of a variety of useful substances, for example hyaluronic acid. More of a preventive measure, but many times more effective than rubbing in creams and lotions with similar active ingredients in their composition.

Creative way

Today you can feel free to disguise your stretch marks as tattoo. Success depends on the condition of your skin, the quality of the paint, the experience and style of the artist.

Situations in which you should not get a tattoo:

• If stretch marks have appeared recently and are still present purple shade, it's better to wait. Otherwise, the tattoo will deteriorate - the design will float and the paint will “fall out”. Important! A good master will never agree to tattoo fresh stretch marks.
• The procedure cannot be carried out during feeding. From the previous paragraph it is clear that no one will take up the matter during this period. Optimally - after a year.
• You should not get a tattoo if you are planning another pregnancy in the future - the design will definitely be ruined.

You can get a tattoo if:

• The scars have healed a long time ago, they are white in color and may have smoothed out a little (including due to care and cosmetic procedures).
• After giving birth, you have already toned your muscles and also lost accumulated fat.
• You are no longer planning a pregnancy.

Magic way

Brazilian tattoo artist Rodolfo Torres () came up with a unique way to disguise stretch marks. He selects paint exactly to match the client’s skin color and fills the white stripes with it so delicately that the result looks better than Photoshop.

What is absolutely surprising is that using the same technology, the master, who was nicknamed the wizard, gets rid of dark circles under the eyes. He tattoos the problem area with skin-colored paint, and the client literally forgets about his problem forever.

Rodolfo is famous not only in his homeland, more than 1.6 million people follow his Instagram, and a queue of celebrity clients lines up for months in advance.

How to prevent stretch marks

Even if you already have stretch marks, you need to know how to prevent new ones from appearing.

• Watch your diet. It must be balanced, you must receive all the necessary vitamins and microelements. Many of them affect the elasticity of the skin, which directly determines whether it will stretch or tear if something happens.
• Stay hydrated. The elasticity of the skin directly depends on its hydration.
• Watch your weight. Avoid extreme weight loss or gain.
• Keep track of your weight and volume. If you play sports, don't strive for quick results.
• Moisturize and nourish your skin. As long as scars have not yet formed, all lotions, creams and oils will be fine. When combined with a massage, the skin will become elastic, elastic, and no stretching will be scary for it.