Yes!
Using the correct skincare products during pregnancy (or any period of rapid weight fluctuations) can help reduce the formation of stretch marks and even fade their appearance after you have them.
If you’d like to reduce the appearance of stretch marks or are interested in preventing stretch marks during pregnancy, read on to learn how to care for your stretch marks and the possible benefits of the most common treatments.
Stretch Mark Cream
A stretch mark-specific cream is one of the most effective treatment options for stretch marks. These creams contain a combination of highly effective ingredients to combat the appearance of stretch marks. Unlike the other remedies we’ll discuss here, they’re specifically formulated to target stretch marks.
Stretch mark creams are a key part of any pregnancy skincare routine because they hydrate the skin and encourage cell turnover, resulting in more elastic skin. As your baby grows inside of you, the rapid stretching of your skin can cause the scars that we know as stretch marks. By enhancing your skin's flexibility and stretchiness, you’ll reduce the chance of stretch marks.
Stretch mark creams also work well on existing stretch marks because they encourage cell regeneration. Over time, this results in less visible stretch marks.
So whether you already have stretch marks or want to prevent them, a stretch mark cream is a great option. There are also maximum strength stretch mark creams available if you’re seeking even more effective results.
Aloe Vera
There is a good chance that you’ve used aloe vera in the past, likely to treat a sunburn. Aloe vera is a natural healing agent that soothes your skin and encourages healing. As a result, it can be an effective way to accelerate the healing of recent stretch marks.
Aloe vera is natural and derived from plants, which is great for those of us who are extra-conscious of what we put on our skin, especially during pregnancy. That said, aloe vera isn’t a complete solution to stretch marks.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a very common skincare ingredient that is prized for its ability to smooth your skin for a more youthful appearance. This smoothing effect can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but experts recommend against using it during pregnancy and nursing.
So feel free to use a product that contains Vitamin A on your stretch marks, but avoid it if you’re currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a naturally derived skincare ingredient prized for its ability to help your skin retain moisture. Many people love the feel and scent of coconut oil on their skin and use it as a natural skincare ingredient.
Unfortunately, we’re not aware of any research to suggest that coconut oil alone can prevent or roll back stretch marks. While the moisturizing benefits of coconut oil are great and might eventually be proven to help with stretch marks, more research is still needed.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid can be found in countless skin care products–and for good reason. It’s one of the most effective skincare ingredients when it comes to both hydration and healing. It is particularly effective in combating the appearance of wrinkles.
There is also evidence that hyaluronic acid will both firm your skin and increase its elasticity; two key factors in preventing and healing stretch marks. Hyaluronic is also pregnancy safe, so aside from a formulated stretch mark cream, hyaluronic acid is one of the best options out there!