The enlarged abdomen and the sudden weight gain during pregnancy lead to the stretching of the skin and the formation of its tears. The tears first appear in shades of pink or purple, then can turn red and eventually become white.
If postpartum stretch marks are treated when they are still pink, purple, or red
in color, significant improvement can be observed, but if left untreated for a longer period and
they turn white, then the treatments applied have little positive effect.
Moreover, in skincare, unfortunately, this is one of those problems that unfortunately cannot be
easily addressed once they are deeply set.
Why do postpartum stretch marks occur?
The skin problem known as postpartum stretch marks actually occurs during pregnancy (as well)
but can also arise in cases of sudden weight loss or weight gain. During this
period, the skin tightens, especially due to sudden weight gain around the abdomen
. In the stretched skin, collagen fibers tear, and the torn fibers
cause the appearance of cracks on the skin. This situation can occur due to sudden weight gain and loss outside of pregnancy.
In which areas do stretch marks occur intensively?
Stretch marks most commonly appear on the abdomen, but they can also be observed on the hips, back, thighs, and
breasts.
Are postpartum stretch marks permanent?
Postpartum stretch marks become permanent in most women. If treated during the periods
when they first start to develop, and before they turn white, significant
improvement can be observed. However, if left untreated for a longer time and they turn white, they are very difficult to completely eliminate, and treatments only reduce the appearance of the cracks.
Stretch marks occur in almost every body type, depending on genetic factors. However, they are more common in dry and dehydrated body types, and more intense cracking occurs.
How can stretch marks be prevented? While it is not possible to completely avoid them, it is necessary to reduce the formation of cracks and to treat them quickly after they appear. Proper skin care is essential for this.
To avoid cracks, the following should be done:
1. It is recommended to use body lotions containing vitamins A and E, specifically developed for pregnancy stretch marks, as well as skin moisturizing creams during pregnancy.
2. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can cause stretch marks both in this process and in the postpartum weight loss process.
3.The use of substances that damage the skin structure, such as cigarettes,
increases the formation of cracks and is not beneficial for health or the fetus. Therefore, do not smoke during pregnancy, and pay attention to healthy eating and a vitamin-rich lifestyle.
4. Drinking water increases the moisture content of the skin and enhances its elasticity. Consuming plenty of water contributes to the proper condition and hydration of the skin.
5. Exercise boosts collagen production and accelerates blood circulation. Thanks to rapid
blood circulation, certain minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus, which the skin needs, are absorbed more quickly in the skin. For all these positive effects, it is also recommended to regularly perform exercises suitable for pregnancy, such as walking and swimming.
6. Cracks are more common on dry skin. Therefore, it is advisable to apply an intensive moisturizing cream after every shower, and it may also be worth using oils
if we want to maximize hydration.
7. The vitamins and minerals found in natural oils protect and
restore the structure of the skin and prevent the formation of cracks.
8. Irregular nutrition leads to rapid and unhealthy weight gain
, and the appearance of stretch marks increases. That is why a balanced and
regular diet is important.
When is it advisable to start using creams for the prevention of stretch marks?
Weight gain is not uncommon in the early stages of pregnancy. However, sudden weight gain can be experienced in the following
processes, and taking early
precautions minimizes the formation of cracks. Therefore,
it is recommended to regularly use moisturizing cream or oil until the 20th week. The 20thAfter the seventh week, it is recommended to pay more attention to the formation of stretch marks. This way, the tense skin calms down, becomes hydrated, and the formation of cracks is minimized, although unfortunately, there are those whose skin is thinner and prone to cracking. In such cases, it is unfortunately very difficult to avoid or prevent their formation.
What plant oils are good against stretch marks? Natural oils are used against postpartum stretch marks. These oils prevent the formation of cracks and reduce the appearance of existing cracks.
Good oils for postpartum cracks:
1. Argan oil
2. Almond oil
3. Olive oil
4. Black cumin oil
5. St. John's wort oil
6. Melissa oil
7. Apricot oil
8. Sesame oil
These oils can be used in a course either on their own or mixed with other oils. With regular use, the formation of cracks is minimized
, and the appearance of cracks is alleviated.