One of the things most women dread during their pregnancy is developing stretch marks. These streaks seem to appear overnight and it usually happens when our bodies are undergoing big changes – and well, the stretching and shrinking of skin during pregnancy is one of the top things that can bring this about. This is why finding an oil for stretch marks during pregnancy can be a great way to prevent them.
Skincare for pregnant women can be very tricky, especially since the number of products you’re allowed to use becomes extremely limited due to ingredients that can be harmful to you and your baby. But that doesn’t mean that you should give up so easily. Some skincare products make taking care of yourself a breeze. One of these products is body oil.
Using oils on your body is a great way to stay moisturized. It can also be one way to practice self-care by massaging this oil throughout your body. But, you must know which oils you’re allowed to use during your pregnancy first.
In this article, we’ve listed some of the best pregnancy-safe oils you can use.
How Do Stretch Marks Occur?
Stretch marks occur when your skin rapidly stretches or shrinks. These changes lead to tears in your skin. When the skin on these tears heal, stretch marks form. This is due to the lack of collagen and elastin in the affected area.
The lack of these essential proteins in the area can be affected by the following factors:
- Hormone levels
- Medical conditions
- Genetics
- Pregnancy
Oils to Consider for Pregnancy Stretch Marks
One of the best ways to prevent pregnancy stretch marks is to thoroughly moisturize your skin by using oils. Applying oil to your skin religiously can help it maintain its suppleness while also nourishing it.
All the oils we mention below are safe for pregnant women. However, we understand that each body is different, so it’s best to consult with your doctor if you have any pre-existing skin conditions that may be aggravated with the use of these oils. We also recommend conducting patch tests first to ensure the oil’s compatibility with your skin.
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is naturally derived from the fruit of the rose bush. It’s a gentle all-natural oil that’s safe for pregnant women. Rosehip is packed with vitamins such as vitamins A, C, and E, meaning it stimulates cell regeneration, collagen production, and skin barrier protection.
With consistent use, rosehip oil can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Argan Oil
Derived from the argan tree, argan oil is a protein-rich natural oil that’s safe for pregnant women to use. Usually, we can find this ingredient in hair products like hair relaxing serums, but on its own, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.
Argan oil can help keep skin moisturized because it’s filled with fatty acids and vitamin E. Nutrients needed to give your skin that extra boost of nourishment to reduce the risk of stretch marks.
Sunflower Oil
As one of the most mild and gentle oils on the market, sunflower oil is safe for pregnant women to massage into their skin. Sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant while also promoting collagen production. Using sunflower oil on dry skin can hydrate your skin thoroughly to minimize the risk of developing stretch marks.
Moringa Oil
In the Philippines, moringa or malunggay is known as a powerful ingredient that’s used to treat different health concerns. This all-natural oil is extracted from the moringa seed, which means it’s safe for pregnant women.
There are several moringa oil benefits for the skin, which comes as no surprise because this oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, all essential vitamins for promoting cell regeneration and collagen production – which keeps your skin supple and elastic. It’s also a very hydrating oil that can aid in reducing the appearance of stretch marks while resolving skin inflammation.
Facing Stretch Marks Head-On with Moringa-O2
Preventing stretch marks during pregnancy can seem like a lot of work, but it’s possible to do this if you have the right products in your arsenal. Using highly hydrating oils on your skin is a great way to reduce the risk of stretch marks developing. You can use any of the oils we’ve mentioned above or you can find an all-natural oil that combines two or more oils for maximum benefits.
Moringa-O2’s Herbal Oil combines sunflower, moringa, and olive oil in just one bottle for a nutrient-packed product. This highly moisturizing and nourishing oil can solve your skin woes from dry skin to irritations. Let Moringa-O2 help take care of you and your baby today!
