How I've Managed To Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy (So Far)

I have THE most sensitive skin on the planet and I’ve pretty much accepted the fact that I’d probably get stretch marks during pregnancy. That doesn’t mean I was leaving it all up to fate.

Honestly, since the DAY I found out I was pregnant, I’ve been using a belly butter and body oil combo that has helped me escape stretch marks during pregnancy thus far! I know that my biggest days are ahead of me in the third trimester, so I’ll be sure to circle back and post an update if anything changes. For now I wanted to share what’s been working for me in avoiding those tiger stripes so far.

Here’s how I’ve been able to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy:

Body Oil: I use Mother’s Blend Toning Oil after every bath or a shower. I apply it to my skin (while it’s still moist) from the tata’s and the belly, on down to the butt and thighs. I love it because it’s ALL NATURAL and filled with yummy ingredients like almond oil, pecan oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter and vitamin E.
Body Butter: I use Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter in the morning or before bed when I haven’t showered and my skin isn’t moist. Sometimes I’ll even add a drop or two of the Mother’s Blend toning oil for extra hydration. Mama Bee Belly Butter is all natural and formulated with shea, cocoa and jojoba butters, as well as vitamin E to condition a growing belly.
Dry Brushing: I don’t do this EVERY night but I try and dry brush my body at least three times per week. Dry brushing helps exfoliate the skin and allows for better absorption of belly butters and oils!

Besides keeping my skin supple with belly butters and oils, I’ve also been eating a skin nourishing diet full of vitamins A, C & E (think: avocado, oranges, pineapple, and leafy greens). Collagen, which gives the skin flexibility and resilience, has been another recent addition to my diet (I usually add a scoop to my morning smoothies) .

Another key to preventing stretch marks has been hydration! You babes know I LOVE to drink my weight in water on the regular, so during pregnancy I’ve been doing that and then some.

Finally, I think major factor has been exercising regularly and moving my body on a daily basis. I’m putting together a post on my pregnancy workout routine so stay tuned!

I think it’s worth mentioning that pregnant or not I plan to continue to use a few drops of the belly oil in my lotion going forward. My skin has never been more hydrated during the winter and it looks/feels amazing!

Ok mamas sound off: what’s been your experience with stretch marks during pregnancy? Any tips or fun products that seemed to work for you?