Japanese expectant mothers rarely, if ever, face post-pregnancy stretch marks, thanks to their early and judicious preventative measures.

Many of my Vietnamese friends lament the severe stretch marks during pregnancy, deeming them unsightly after childbirth. Nearly 70% of pregnant women experience stretch marks from the fifth to seventh month of pregnancy, spreading across the belly, hips, chest, and thighs, causing both itchiness and aesthetic displeasure.

Even in the eighth month of pregnancy, my belly remained smooth and mark-free.
Having lived and given birth in Japan for five years, I've gained substantial beauty insights during pregnancy. Japanese mothers almost never have stretch marks during pregnancy, boasting flawlessly smooth, mark-free bellies. I've learned a lot from both doctors and other expectant mothers, managing to avoid stretch marks myself.
I hope to share some knowledge that could assist anyone who is currently pregnant or planning to be, in preventing post-pregnancy stretch marks.
Preventive Measures Against Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
Before planning for pregnancy, it's advisable to engage in regular physical activity. From my experience, women who are active have a significantly lower risk of developing stretch marks. An exercised body and skin are more toned, enhancing skin elasticity and making it better prepared for those who are less active.
During pregnancy, aim for a moderate weight gain of 8 to 10kg and engage in light daily activities like walking to keep the body trim and fit.
Moisturizing areas prone to stretch marks, especially the belly, hips, and chest, is essential for enhancing skin elasticity and effectively preventing stretch marks.
There's no need to purchase any expensive specialty stretch mark oils or creams. Regular moisturizers and natural oils like olive or coconut oil are sufficient, as pricier options don't guarantee better results if your skin type isn't naturally resilient.
Living in Japan, I prefer olive oil, but coconut oil is also a great choice for Vietnamese mothers. After bathing and drying off, balance and refresh your skin with a mineral water spray, then gently massage olive oil into your chest, hips, and belly for even absorption.

For massages, use Extra Virgin olive oil for its purity and effectiveness.
Allow the oil to penetrate the skin for about 30 minutes to avoid greasiness, then apply a layer of mineral water to dry before adding a layer of moisturizer. This ensures optimal hydration for increased skin elasticity, significantly preventing stretch marks. Opt for Extra Virgin olive oil.
Key Tips for Stretch Mark Prevention During Pregnancy:
- Begin skin care early in pregnancy, ideally by the fourth or fifth month, as this is when the belly starts to stretch.
- Avoid vigorous rubbing during massages, especially in the first trimester, to prevent harm to the fetus. Simply apply the moisturizer gently to the hips, chest, and belly for even absorption.
- Moisturizing after a bath is most effective as the skin absorbs lotion better. Aim to moisturize as often as you bathe each day.
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