Useful Tips For Preventing Pregnancy Stretch Marks

Over 50% of all expectant mothers fall victim to pregnancy stretch marks. Many women are unprepared for this unwelcome side effect of pregnancy and seek remedies to reduce or eliminate the presence of these scars. Depending on the woman's complexion, the stretch marks may be light brown or pinkish in color. The unsightly but painless scars typically become less noticeable over time.

Unfortunately, however, due to factors such as skin type, genetics and the amount of weight gain one experiences during her pregnancy, getting rid of stretch marks can be a challenging endeavor. Although there are certain treatments that can fade or otherwise lessen the appearance of such scars, it is difficult to entirely eliminate them once they have occurred.Understanding How and Why Pregnancy Stretch Marks Occur

Pregnancy stretch marks form when skin-supporting collagen is separated from the skin itself. The most common cause of this event is fast weight gain or pregnancy, as both occurrences result in the rapid stretching of one's skin. Unfortunately, there are many factors that play a role in determining whether one will experience stretch marks and how severe they will be if this is the case.

Melatonin Factor

Heredity has more to do with this event than many people realize. For example, the amount of melatonin in one's skin is a determining factor regarding whether or not she will develop pregnancy stretch marks. This is a genetic feature with which one is born and there is little that can be done to change the role it plays in the development of such scars.

Additionally, pregnancy stretch marks are more likely to occur in women who experienced them during another life event such as puberty. Mothers who are expecting a multiple birth or who produce a high amount of amniotic fluid will experience more than average stretching and are subsequently at a higher risk for the presence of stretch marks.Prevention

Because pregnancy stretch marks are difficult to eliminate, some women prefer to focus on prevention as their weapon against these unsightly lines. There is a wide variety of effective preventative measures from which one can choose, from following a special diet, to the use of supplements and certain lotions manufactured specifically for this purpose. Not all methods of prevention are effective and practical for all mothers-to-be, but the following are some of the best and most successful measures one can take to prevent the condition.

Maintaining Proper Hydration to Prevent Pregnancy Stretch Marks

A person's skin is less elastic when it is dehydrated. Many individuals attempt to hydrate their skin through the use of lotions or creams, but the most effective way to achieve suitable hydration for one's skin cells is to hydrate them from the inside out. This is easily accomplished by consuming an adequate amount of water on a daily basis. Experts recommend a minimum of 8-10 glasses of water each day. As an added benefit, those who follow this tip will also find that it results in clearer, healthier looking skin with less blemishes.Dietary Considerations

Those who wish to prevent pregnancy stretch marks should add zinc to their diet, as this mineral supports skin health. Zinc enhances the body's production of collagen, which gives the skin its firm texture and appropriate elasticity. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, but most experts agree that more of the mineral will be absorbed if the person acquires it from her diet. The following foods, when eaten on a regular basis, will cause one to absorb a significant amount of zinc:

leafy green vegetables

avacados

beets

brown rice

soy

bell peppers

whole grains

Vitamins and Fatty Acids

Additionally, foods that are high in vitamins C, E and A will also help the skin to repair itself and maintain its strength. Nutritionists state that those who follow the five a day rule, meaning that they eat five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, will consume adequate amounts of theses vitamins. Additional sources of vitamin E include pine nuts, sunflower seeds and avocados. Consuming an adequate amount of essential fatty acids is also important, as such acids help the body construct skin cell walls. Essential fatty acids can be found in fish oils and certain vegetable oils. The following are some foods that contain high levels of essential fatty acids:

mackerel

salmon

tuna

cod

halibut

herring

trout

anchovies

Such vitamins can also be taken in the form of supplements. However, it is wise for an expectant mother to speak to her doctor before adding any new supplement to her diet.Can They Disappear?

Stretch marks typically fade approximately six to twelve months after the baby's birth. While it may be impossible to eliminate pregnancy stretch marks completely, by following the aforementioned tips one can help to prevent their formation. It is also helpful to speak to a dermatologist about reducing the appearance of pregnancy stretch marks if they continue to be troublesome post-pregnancy.