Reality star Kristen Cavallari has recently announced her pregnancy and is now also sharing her stretch mark prevention routine: cocoa butter. Do these skin products actually work, though, or does it all come down to genes?
• People can be more genetically predisposed to getting stretch marks;
• They can also be caused by the changes to hormone levels during pregnancy, which can have an effect on collagen production and the elastic capacities of the skin;
• Weight gain is inevitable during pregnancy, and this change in volume is the reason why the skin is put under so much pressure. Excessive weight gain should be avoided while making sure that nutrition is sufficient for both mother and baby’s needs;
• It is very difficult to prove whether skin products can prevent stretch marks, although there is some argument that ensuring skin is well-nourished and sufficiently hydrated can help it to remain supple. The creams and oils can also help to minimise the itchy sensations caused by stretch marks.
• If stretch marks do appear despite your best efforts, then stretch mark removal can produce great results. A combination of microdermabrasion and laser therapy can remove damaged layers of skin and encourage the production of collagen and new skin cells.
