Pregnancy is a wonderful experience in a woman’s life, but it can also be problematic as it comes with many changes in the body, including stretch marks (also known as stretchies).

These lines appear on the skin when it stretches beyond its limits due to weight gain and the growth of the baby inside the womb. However, you don’t have to worry anymore since nature offers you various solutions to minimize, prevent or eliminate stretchies. Here are ten natural remedies that can help you prevent stretch marks from developing during your pregnancy.

1. Use aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the most potent natural remedies for various skin conditions. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which nourish and moisturize the skin, making it smooth and supple.

Applying aloe vera gel at least two times a day on your belly will keep your skin moisturized and promote the production of collagen and elastin fibers in your skin. These fibers strengthen your skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

2. Apply coconut oil

Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to heal damaged skin, including stretch marks.

The fatty acids in coconut oil penetrate your skin, strengthening the cells and promoting elasticity to reduce the likelihood of stretch marks developing. Applying coconut oil to the belly, hips, and breasts regularly can help protect your skin.

3. Massage with olive oil

Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and K and contains several antioxidants that promote skin health. These components hydrate your skin and reduce inflammation, thereby preventing stretch marks from appearing.

Massaging your skin with olive oil before going to bed can relax you while nourishing your skin. This massage should be gentle and circular, promoting circulation, and increasing skin elasticity.

4. Apply shea butter

Shea butter is rich in vitamin A and E and various fatty acids that promote skin rejuvenation. It moisturizes your skin, reducing the chances of developing stretch marks by keeping it healthy and hydrated.

Shea butter absorbs easily, making it an ideal moisturizer to apply after a shower and at night.

5. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water daily promotes skin hydration, which maintains skin elasticity and prevents the occurrence of stretch marks. Staying hydrated also flushes out toxins from your body, which can negatively impact skin health.

Pregnant women should drink at least eight to ten glasses of water daily. Water-rich foods such as melons, oranges, and cucumbers can supplement the water you drink.

6. Exercise regularly

Light exercises such as yoga, swimming, or walking improves blood flow, promotes skin elasticity, and reduces the risk of stretch marks. Exercise will help keep your skin healthy enough to stretch without scarring.

Regular exercise also helps regulate your weight during pregnancy, making it easier for your skin to accommodate your body changes.

7. Eat a nutritious diet

Your diet has a direct impact on your skin’s overall health. Eating foods rich in vitamin C, E, and proteins can nourish your skin. These foods include fruits, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and fish.

Eating a balanced diet can keep your skin healthy and elastic to prevent the occurrence of stretchies. A balanced diet also promotes overall body health, which is important for keeping your body healthy during pregnancy.

8. Use cocoa butter

Cocoa butter has been long used to minimize stretch marks. It contains fatty acids and antioxidants that protect and nourish your skin. This butter is easily absorbed, keeping your skin moisturized and promoting collagen production.

Cocoa butter applied at least twice a day can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

9. Apply lemon juice

Lemon has amazing skin-lightening properties that help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which exfoliate the skin and reduce scarring.

Applying lemon juice on the affected areas and leaving it to dry before washing it off can help lighten and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

10. Try lavender oil

Lavender oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties that promote skin health. It also promotes relaxation, which is vital during pregnancy. Applying lavender oil helps reduce stress, which can lead to stretch marks.

You can add a few drops of the oil into your bathtub or mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil and use it on the affected areas to promote skin cell regeneration.

Conclusion

These natural remedies can help pregnant women minimize the appearance of stretch marks while keeping their skin healthy. It is essential to note that the prevention of stretch marks is easier than dealing with them after they appear.

Therefore, adopting these remedies at the onset of pregnancy is crucial. However, always speak to your doctor before trying any of these remedies, especially if you have sensitive skin or have had issues with your skin in the past.