Pregnancy skincare tips

If you're a mom or mom-to-be, chances are that you've thought about or experienced stretch marks. As many as 90 percent of women may develop stretch marks during pregnancy. These marks occur when the skin stretches too much or too quickly and may develop during periods of rapid weight gain or loss, such as pregnancy. The most common areas affected include the abdomen, breasts, thighs and buttocks

The best defence against stretch marks is to ensure that skin maintains maximum elasticity throughout pregnancy. Maintaining a nutritious diet and regular exercise will help ensure overall skin health and improve circulation, making the skin better able to stretch. Many doctors and pharmacists also recommend using Bio-Oil, a topically applied skincare oil that is clinically proven to improve the appearance of new and existing stretch marks.

Specially formulated to hydrate skin and lock in moisture, Bio-Oil has been used safely by pregnant women for more than 20 years. Many also find it effective for improving skin tone and diminishing the appearance of scars, including caesarean scars.

Parenting expert and TV personality Nanny Robina says that many women discover Bio-Oil during pregnancy, as it is often recommended by other moms, midwives and doctors, but they continue to use it for their everyday skincare needs. “I always thought of Bio-Oil for stretch marks, but when it was recommended to me for post-surgery scar treatment, I found that it not only helped with scarring, but also to alleviate dryness and itching,” says Robina Uddin. “Its moisturizing properties make it an excellent face and body moisturizer, and great for softening cuticles as well as rough heels and elbows,” she adds.