5 STEPS TO GET RID OF STRETCH MARKS

Stretch marks are usually caused by rapid weight gain/loss or pregnancy. This is because in both cases, the skin is put under a great deal of strain and can’t compensate for the rapid stretching by producing more skin cells. Stretch marks are extremely common in both men and women. While most stretch marks should fade slowly over time, they don’t often vanish completely.

Stretch marks are very common during pregnancy and affect around 80% of expectant mothers. During pregnancy, hormones are produced that soften the ligaments in the pelvis to make it easier to give birth – these often soften your skin fibres too, making you prone to stretch marks. Stretch marks during pregnancy have a lot to do with genetics as well - so if your mother was prone to getting stretch marks when she was pregnant, then it’s likely that you will too. People with lighter skin tones are also more likely to get obvious stretch marks, as stretchmarks on darker skin are less visible.

Reduce the amount of pregnancy stretch marks you get:

• Moisturise - there is no miracle moisturiser to help with pregnancy stretch marks as the body is under so much strain, however, moisturising will help to prevent dryness and itchiness that comes along with a pregnant belly growing in size, and it will help to keep the skin nourished so that it doesn’t become sore. Try NIVEA Q10 PLUS Rich Firming Body Lotion which intensively moisturises for smooth and supple skin.
• Eat lots of vitamins - eating food and drink rich in vitamin C such as fruits including strawberries, mangoes, and tomatoes, and veggies such as asparagus, and peppers - this will help to keep skin healthy, as well as giving valuable nutrition to your baby.
• Don’t gain weight too fast - although weight gain is a guaranteed side effect of pregnancy, try not to gain it too quickly, you should make sure you’re gaining weight at a steady pace rather than sporadically.