Anti-stretch-mark products and pregnancy: when should you start using them?

The body of a woman during pregnancy is exposed to many changes. Among them, stretching of the skin, increasingly as pregnancy progresses, generating stretch marks. But... do not panic! We explain how to prevent and combat their appearance.

The stretch marks usually appear on the abdomen and breasts, as the baby grows inside the woman’s body, due to stretching of the middle and inner layers of the skin.

Why do stretch marks appear during pregnancy?

The stretch marks are marks that appear when the skin stretches beyond its elastic capacity. During pregnancy, hormonal changes also play an important role, as they reduce the production of collagen and elastin, two key components for keeping the skin firm and flexible.

Among the factors that increase the risk of developing stretch marks are:

• Rapid weight gain.
• Genetic predisposition.
• Dry or poorly hydrated skin.

How to prevent stretch marks in pregnancy?

1. Hydrate your skin daily: keeping the skin well hydrated improves its elasticity and reduces the risk of stretch marks. Use moisturising lotions, creams or oils specially formulated for pregnancy.
2. Follow a balanced diet: a diet rich in vitamins C and E, zinc and essential fatty acids strengthens the skin from within.
3. Drink enough water: internal hydration is just as important for maintaining skin elasticity.
4. Control weight gain: gaining weight gradually and healthily reduces the impact of rapid stretching on the skin.
5. Regular massages: massaging areas prone to stretch marks stimulates circulation and improves absorption of moisturising products.

Pregnancy: at what stage should we start using anti-stretch-mark products?

We are very much of the “prevention is better than cure” school. For this reason, our recommendation will always be that you start using anti-stretch-mark treatments once a day, from the first week of pregnancy during the first two months, and then, approximately in week 10, twice a day.

In this way we will ensure that the s kin is elastic and toned, far from the dreaded stretch marks. Therefore, the sooner you get into the application routine, the better, and this way the skin will be prepared for all the changes it will experience during pregnancy.

Best time to apply anti-stretch-mark creams

After getting out of the shower. Do you know why? Because it is the time of day when the skin is cleanest and most absorbent. But what type of cream should be used?

Every woman’s body is different, and therefore the type of cream they use will also be different, as not all anti-stretch-mark creams can adapt to every skin type and its needs.

What you should always look for are anti-stretch-mark products that include components in their formula such as rosehip, almond oil, biostimulants and vitamin E, due to their regenerative and antioxidant capacity.

The best oils and creams for stretch marks in pregnancy

Below, we show you the best products to prevent the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy:

Trofolastin Anti-Stretch-Mark Cream

One of the options most recommended by dermatologists and pharmacists is Trofolastin Anti-Stretch-Mark Cream. Its formula with centella asiatica, elastin and collagen helps improve firmness, prevent the formation of new stretch marks and reduce those already visible, making it ideal during and after pregnancy.

Pranarom Maternité Anti-Stretch-Mark Massage Cream

This cream is specially designed for pregnancy. Pranarom Maternité Anti-Stretch-Mark Massage Cream includes 100% natural vegetable oils such as rosehip and argan, which intensely nourish the skin, improve its elasticity and prevent the appearance of stretch marks.

E’Lifexir Anti-Stretch-Mark Oil

This oil is ideal for preventing and reducing the appearance of stretch marks thanks to its formula rich in natural oils such as rosehip, avocado and wheat germ. In addition, E’Lifexir Anti-Stretch-Mark Oil contains vitamin E, a key antioxidant for protecting the skin, while f avouring its regeneration and keeping it soft and flexible.

Elancyl Stretch Mark Prevention Cream

Elancyl is a brand recognised for its effectiveness in skincare. Its cream for the prevention of stretch marks contains active ingredients such as safflower oil and vitamin E, which improve skin elasticity and hydrate it intensely, preventing the appearance of stretch marks and improving the appearance of those already existing.

Even so, it is not the only step to follow to care for the body during pregnancy. You should follow a daily routine that combines a good diet, based on ingredients rich in vitamins, proteins and magnesium, hydrating deeply, with specific creams such as Eucerin Moisturising Body Lotion, doing gentle physical exercise, and always using high SPF 50+ sun protection.