Let’s be honest - no one exactly cheers at the thought of pregnancy leaving behind a body full of stretch marks. But for many expectant mothers, it’s an unavoidable part of the journey to motherhood and, when you think about it, a beautiful lifelong reminder of what your body has just created. A little life!
For many women, stretch marks aren’t anything new. Most have encountered them before pregnancy - typically on the hips, thighs, or breasts - as little souvenirs from teenage years or past weight changes. But what exactly are stretch marks?
Simply put, stretch marks form when the fibers in the deeper layers of the skin become overstretched and lose their elasticity. While they might feel like an annoying (and perhaps unexpected) keepsake, they are completely natural. When your body grows rapidly - whether due to your expanding belly or hormonal changes. your skin can’t always keep up, which is why most pregnant women develop stretch marks. In fact, up to 90% of pregnant women will experience them. Some may only notice a few faint lines, while others embrace a full zebra-stripe effect across their belly, hips, and thighs. Regardless of how your body looks, you are exactly as you are meant to be.
And what about all those miracle creams that promise to prevent or erase stretch marks? While they sound tempting, there is unfortunately no scientific evidence that any cream or oil can actually prevent them. However, if you enjoy massaging your belly with nourishing oils as a way to bond with your baby, then absolutely go for it! It can help your skin feel hydrated, supple, and cared for, especially as it works overtime to accommodate your growing baby. Our Embrace body oil is the perfect choice for this, filled with softening, natural, and organic oils, completely fragrance-free - ideal for pampering your hardworking pregnancy body.
Stretch marks never fully disappear, and there’s nothing you can do to erase them completely, but they do fade over time and become much less noticeable. And remember: they are not just marks on your skin - they are a tribute to what your incredible body has accomplished. Be proud of them, because they tell the beautiful story of you as a mother.
