As a woman, you have probably been "blessed" with a stretch mark or two. Whether it happened during puberty, as physiological growth spurts stretched your skin beyond its tolerance, or during a previous pregnancy, stretch marks are simply a normal part of life. But if you are ready to say, "No More!", then you need to be aware of ways to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy or other periods of dramatic weight change.

As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!" This little pearl of wisdom also applies to the prevention of stretch marks. As you probably know, removing stretch marks is not an easy process and can take months just to fade them enough so they are not quite as noticeable. There are effective stretch mark creams and lotions that do a pretty good job of repairing the damaged skin, but they can be costly and time consuming.

So, if you are concerned about developing any further stretch marks during pregnancy, try following these helpful tips. Your odds of avoiding further skin damage and scarring will be dramatically improved, and as an added bonus, the appearance your existing stretch marks may benefit too!

Establish a Skin Care Program

The first step in preventing stretch marks is to develop a routine skin care program. Don't make your program so complicated or cumbersome that you will not stick with it. A simple plan that you will be able to follow easily on a daily basis will prove far more effective than a more elaborate routine that you will only follow on a hit and miss basis.

Moderate Your Weight Gain

Though some weight gain is natural during pregnancy, the rate at which the additional pounds are added is very important. Remember that the skin has a natural tendency to flex or stretch without damaging the skin tissue. However, sudden weight changes can stretch the skin beyond its tolerances and tearing and scarring result, also known as stretch marks. So, monitor your weight gain during your pregnancy and strive for a more moderate and even weight gain to the extent possible.

Don't Forget to Hydrate Your Skin

The proper hydration of your skin during pregnancy is a key element of any skin care program. As pregnancy will place more tension on your skin in the abdomen, thighs and buttocks areas, your skin becomes more sensitive. You may experience sensations of itching and pressure as your skin expands. This is where the application of a high quality stretch mark cream or body lotion can not only relieve some of these symptoms, but also enhance the skins ability to expand and flex.

Massage Your Skin

This is a practice that is often overlooked but can really help with the prevention of stretch marks. Take a gentle brush or massage glove and gently massage the skin in those high risk areas, generally your abdomen and thighs. This will stimulate circulation to the skin and promote healthier and more resilient skin tissue.

Eat Right and Take Vitamins

Being as healthy as you possibly can during pregnancy has multiple benefits. Firstly and most importantly, it helps develop a strong and healthy baby. Secondly, it helps your body counter the stresses placed on it during and after your pregnancy. This also includes your skin's health. Eating nutritional and healthy meals, complimented by a vitamin prescribed by your doctor, will help keep your skin healthy and radiant.

These five helpful skin care tips, if practiced routinely, will help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Obviously, there are no absolute guarantees due to the variability of skin types and conditions, but establishing a skin care program will definitely tip the odds in your favor of preventing any further stretch marks. So, don't be afraid of pampering yourself a little, you truly deserve it!