Got a bun in the oven?
Our bodies go through a lot when pregnant, and no part more so (obviously) than our bellies, growing and stretching as an actual baby is getting made in there.
When it comes to stretch marks, we all dread them, and are often told that whether or not we get them, is largely down to genetics, meaning there isn’t much that can be done to prevent them.
However, some experts also argue that keeping the skin on your stomach (and hips and back and boobs) well moisturised and nourished during this time could help avoid getting them, and either way, we think pregnancy is the perfect time to indulge in some extra pampering and self-care. And making sure you feel super-soft and silky all over? Well, it’s a great place to start.
1. Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter
There is a reason this tummy butter is a cult buy. Luxurious and packed with a blend of organic oils such as avocado, rosehip, argan and sweet almond for increasing skin elasticity; plus nourishing shea butter for moisture; your skin is left feeling super soft.
Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter, €27,95, selected retailers nationwide and online at HQhair.com
2. Bio Oil
This cult buy has been around for ages, and even Kim Kardashian claims it helped her avoid stretch marks when she was pregnant with little North and Saint a few years back.
Bio-Oil is a combination of plant extracts and vitamins suspended in an oil base, and contains the ingredient PurCellin Oil which helps with higher absorption into the skin. Reassuringly, this product has been assessed and cleared for safe use during pregnancy, and we love how incredibly soft it makes our skin feel.
Bio Oil, €13,99, pharmacies and other selected retailers nationwide, online at Boots.ie
3. Estelle & Thild Eco Organic Stretch Mark Oil
This one is a personal favourite, and the one product I used throughout both my own pregnancies. I am obsessed with organic and kind skincare, and love the products from Swedish Estelle & Thild.
The luxurious Ecorganic Stretch Mark oil is so gentle on the skin, yet packs a punch in terms of ingredients, with a mix of cold-pressed organic oils, such as Pomegranate, Almond and Jojoba Oil, all designed to strengthen delicate tissue making the skin resistant to change.
Estelle & Thild Eco Organic Stretch Mark Oil, €20, Estellethild.com
4. Neal’s Yard Remedies Mother’s Balm
We are a little obsessed with this balm (that we are now using without even being a little bit pregnant!). The formula consists of coconut oil, almond oil, macadamia seed oil and apricot kernel oil – as well as beeswax, making it 100 per cent organic and allergy certified. It works great on skin that feels itchy as it is being stretched to capacity, and we love how incredibly soft it is making our skin all over.
Neal’s Yard Remedies Mother’s Balm, £20.00, Nealsyardremedies.com
5. Aesop Breathless
This is not specifically aimed at pregnant women, but is an amazing body oil we think everyone should have in their bathroom cabinet regardless, as it is perfect for both pregnancy and beyond.
This hydrating body treatment oil is intensely hydrating to maintain supple skin making it perfect for growing bumps. Packed with Vitamin E and nut oil extracts, it has a woody, light citrus scent and will nourish, soften and replenish dry skin.
Aesop Breathless, £25, Aesop.com
