A Complete Guide to Naturally Avoiding Pregnancy Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are those tears that occur in the elastic fibres of the skin. This is often visible when the skin is over-stretched, which is why it is common among pregnant women. Once the tear occurs, a lilac-coloured line appears. Over time,  the colour tends to fade, leaving a thin pearly white line which does not disappear on its own.

Is there a way to avoid them? Sarah  Boukhali, our cosmetics expert at JOONE has shared 5 best practices that can help you perfect your anti-stretch routines. 

1. Staying Active to Avoid Stretch Marks

Did you know that playing sports or maintaining regular physical activity can help  prevent the appearanceof stretch marks? The more your muscles are toned, the more your skin will be toned and therefore supported. This will protect your skin as much as possible, while also helping you maintain a healthy routine during pregnancy.

2. The Anti-Stretch Mark Belly Massage

A great way to protect your belly area from stretch marks is to begin massaging your belly from the very 1st month of pregnancy. You can do this on your own by massaging yourself with creams and oils that have been formulated to help you reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Here's a quick guide for you to follow: 

• When you are massaging yourself, follow a circular movement in a clockwise direction.
• Be sure to apply a generous amount of cream or oil and ensure that the area around your belly feels hydrated. 
• If possible, repeat this little ritual every morning and evening in areas that are sensitive or prone to tightness.

Tip: You can make this massage last for up to 3-4 minutes. For the lower abdomen, move your hands up one after the other from below to the top of the abdomen.

If you aren't sure if you should pick a cream or an oil based product for your skin, here is Sarah's take on it:

"Each woman has her own unique skin type, with her own sensibilities and fragilities. Do not hesitate to choose the galenic (oil or cream texture) that suits you best. You will be able to create for yourself a ritual of care which is perfect for your individual needs and which you will enjoy performing on a daily basis."

Discover Joone Paris' range of clean, plant-based anti-stretch mark products. 

3. The Anti-Stretch Mark Leg Massage

During pregnancy, daily leg massages can help with  hydrating your skin and thus preventing stretch marks. It also stimulates blood circulation and helps fight symptoms of heavy legs.

Tip: Place one hand on the inside of your thigh, with the other, make small circles from the bottom to the top of the thigh. Repeat this gesture for 3 to 4 minutes and savour this moment of relaxation.

4. Avoiding Stretch Marks in the Breast Area

The breasts are devoid of muscles but they rest directly on the pecs. By including exercises that target the pecs, you can help tone the area around your breasts, thus preventing the appearance of stretch marks.

In addition to sport, you can also perform anti-stretch mark massages on your chest:

• Massage each of your breasts clockwise for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Repeat daily

Tip: This massage should be very gentle, without pressing on your breasts. You can then follow up with a massage from the upper part of the breasts to the neck, always from the bottom to the top.

 5. Avoiding the Sun to Reduce Stretch Marks

To prevent the appearance of stretch marks, it is best to avoid the sun, especially if you have a recent scar. Be aware that even several months after giving birth, your figure and your skin will continue to change under the effect of hormones.

Tip: It may sound like a long time, but it is helpful to avoid sun exposure for at least a year after birth if possible.

And that's a wrap! A special thanks to our cosmetics specialist Sarah Boukhali for sharing her tips with us this week. If you are interested in learning more about choosing the perfect products for Mum & Baby, you might find these articles just as helpful:

1. The very alarming report on the safety of baby nappies

2. The rules for an eco-friendly and healthy baby room