Pregnancy is something that most mothers are excited about. Most women who have given birth are afraid of one thing -stretch marks. Since the belly stretches during pregnancy, the skin around that area is over stretched. Elastin and collagen in the dermis layers of the skin are damaged which causes the skin to lose its elasticity. When this happens, the formation of stretch marks will be evident usually shown by red, purple or dark lines on the skin. Women should know that there are actually ways to prevent this from happening and after pregnancy.

During pregnancy, it is very important to eat a healthy diet. Gaining weight is expected during pregnancy but doctors recommend that gaining 25 to 35 pounds will reduce the formation of stretch marks. This gain in weight is healthy for the baby as well as for the skin. Maintaining a constant rate of weight gain prevents rapid stretching of the skin.

Skin must always be moisturized during pregnancy. The appearance of stretch marks usually comes during the later trimester of the pregnancy, when the belly has really expanded. It is highly recommended to moisturize the skin during the first and second trimester of the pregnancy. This enhances the production of collagen in the dermis, keeping it intact even when over stretched.

Hydrating the body is not only essential to remove the toxins from the skin. People are not aware that drinking 10 glasses of water daily keeps the skin moisturized. Hydrated skin ensures the quick repair of elastin and collagen to reduce the formation of stretch marks. Always make sure to drink water during and even after pregnancy to ensure that skin is moisturized.

Proper diet with a lot of vitamins keeps the skin healthy and free of stretch marks. Loading up of vitamins A, C and E ensure that the skin retains its elasticity. With enough supply of these things, the skin is able to renew and heal faster. Despite overstretching of the skin, with an ample supply of these vitamins, the skin will be able to renew the production of elastin and collagen.

Skin care must still be done after pregnancy. The application of cocoa butter is the most effective way to remove stretch marks after pregnancy. Cocoa butter penetrates into the dermis, allowing for faster repair of the damaged elastin and collagen on the skin. Continue to drink water and taking vitamins even after pregnancy to completely reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the skin.