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Embrace the marks of change with the right pregnancy skincare routine

Source: Supplied
Source: Supplied

It’s no secret that pregnancy changes a woman’s body in almost every way possible – from the size of their breasts to the speed at which their hair grows. One change, however, that still takes many women by surprise is the drastic impact that pregnancy can have on their skin – the body’s largest and arguably most unsung organ.

Bio-Oil has understood the pregnancy skincare concerns of expectant mothers for over 30 years, and knows that taking care of skin pre- and post-pregnancy can make a huge difference to a woman’s confidence as her body starts changing.

In light of Pregnancy Education Month, Bio-Oil recommends these top tips for pregnancy skin care:

1.     Prevent pregnancy stretch marks

With up to 90% of women developing pregnancy stretch marks, it’s no wonder this pregnancy skincare concern is at the very top of the list. Over and above eating correctly, drinking lots of water, and exercising regularly; boosting and maintaining skin’s elasticity is one of the best ways to take early action and prevent the formation of stretch marks. This is achieved by keeping skin well hydrated and supple through the regular application of a potent skincare oil, such as Bio-Oil Skincare Oil. For best results, massage the oil into the breasts, abdomen and hips twice daily, from the start of the second trimester, to help skin stretch.

bio oil

2.     Minimise the appearance of caesarean scars

With 70% of private hospital births in South Africa occurring by caesarean section, many expectant mothers are eager to learn how best to care for their caesarean scar right from the get-go. Fortunately, the scar minimising solution is as simple as combining Bio-Oil Skincare Oil with Micropore™ tape. All new mothers must please note that they have to be given the all-clear from their gynaecologist before actively beginning a scar management routine.

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3.     Relieve itching

As the blood supply to the skin increases during pregnancy, it is not uncommon for women to experience mild itchiness – especially on their breasts and abdomen as the skin stretches to accommodate their growing baby. To relieve itching, it is best to avoid the heat; take cool baths and showers; and wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Applying Bio-Oil Skincare Oil will provide immediate relief to itchy skin by hydrating and soothing it.

bio oil

4.     Improve uneven skin tone

Many pregnant women also develop hyper-pigmentation. This darkening of the skin, as their hormone levels fluctuate, can cause great distress. Fortunately, most of these changes in the skin will regress spontaneously following delivery, however for some people it may not disappear completely. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil has been shown to be effective in helping improve uneven skin tone. During a clinical trial at Stephens & Associates Inc. in 2011, 86% of the subjects recorded an improvement in the appearance of their uneven skin tone after 12 weeks.

Expecting moms can be assured that Bio-Oil Skincare Oil has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks making it the ideal pregnancy skincare solution. Its potent formulation combines four plant extracts, two powerful vitamins and the breakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil™, to create a light and non-greasy dry oil that is easily absorbed into the skin. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil boosts elasticity and helps skin stretch by keeping it hydrated and supple, and promotes skin regeneration by supporting and restoring damaged skin.


Also read: Win one of three Bio-Oil Skincare hampers worth R1 900 each


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