Diane Oakland, IBCLC Family Education and Support Coordinator, Lactation Consultant

August 04, 2008

As the old adage says, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That is certainly the case with stretch marks.

Stretch marks are tiny tears in the middle layer of skin caused by a quick expansion of skin. They typically appear in pregnancy as red or dark horizontal line on the stomach, buttocks, breasts and thighs. Ethnicity and heredity contribute to the appearance of stretch marks, but several other contributing factors are controllable. Try the following preventive techniques:

• Drink water. Proper hydration helps the expanding skin retain its elasticity.
• Exercise. Exercise during pregnancy helps tone the skin and regulate weight gain.
• Apply moisturizing creams. Lotions and creams limit the urge to scratch, which intensifies the appearance of stretch marks. They also help skin retain moisture and elasticity.
• Eat healthy foods. Foods with Vitamins A, E and C nourish your skin.