If it’s any consolation, 90% of women get stretch marks. While you can’t get rid of them entirely, you can make them less noticeable.
Step 1: Moisturize
Minimize stretch marks before they start by slathering a rich moisturizing cream onto your breasts and belly daily while you’re pregnant. Try one with shea or cocoa butter.
Step 2: Gain weight gradually
Do your best to gain your baby weight slowly and steadily to prevent the sudden stretching that causes the most damage.
Step 3: Drink lots of water
Drink lots of water during your pregnancy to keep your skin hydrated.
Step 4: Use vitamin E
After your baby arrives and you’ve stopped nursing, talk to your doctor about applying vitamin E. It can help fade stretch marks.
Tip
When applying vitamin E, massage it in deeply. Some experts think the mini-rubdown helps to stimulate the production of collagen, which in turn helps make stretch marks less noticeable.
Step 5: Use a concealer
Cover up stretch marks with a heavy-duty concealer in your skin tone. Look for a product designed to hide scars.
Step 6: See a doctor
Consult a doctor. A dermatologist or plastic surgeon may be able to reduce the appearance of the marks with laser surgery, at least to minimize their redness… but eventually that angry color will fade on its own anyway.
Tip
Don’t despair! If you have a dark line down your belly it will also fade in time.
Step 7: Learn to live with them
Learn to live with your stretch marks by considering them a badge of honor. That cute kid is worth it, right?
Did You Know?
If your mother or sister developed stretch marks, chances are you will too.
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