How to Reduce Stretch Marks After Pregnancy

Pregnancy leaves all kinds of marks on the body. One of these is the dreaded stretch mark. Here are some tips to prevent bad stretch mark scars.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cocoa Butter Lotion
• Vitamin E oil
• Sun Screen

1. APPLY COCOA BUTTER WHILE PREGNANT: The cocoa butter keeps the skin moist, which allows it to keep its elasticity. This will help keep the stretch marks from getting too bad.

2. APPLY VITAMIN E OIL AFTER THE BABY IS BORN: Vitamin E has been shown to help reduce scarring. Stretch marks are a form of scaring caused by the rapid expansion of skin.

3. AVOID SUN EXPOSURE: Like all scars, stretch marks will become more noticeable if exposed to the sun while they are healing. Try not to expose your stomach for at least 6 months to a year after your child is born. If you must show off your tummy, where heavier sun screen than you normally would and be sure to reapply often.

Tips & Warnings

• Stretch marks don't only happen because of pregnancy and these tips will help with any stretch marks you develop.

[Gourmet2Go]

on 7/8/2009 Thanks for the info!

[GreenMomma]

on 5/5/2009 Great "non-surgical" tips!!!! These sure helped after my twin pregnancy!

[athome]

on 4/1/2009 What about a tummy tuck lol. Great info on avoiding stretch marks. 5*