Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey, but it comes with natural changes to your body—one of the most common being stretch marks. Up to 90% of pregnant women experience stretch marks, also known as striae gravidarum, particularly on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and hips (Elsaie, 2009).
In this guide, we’ll answer a frequent question: when do pregnancy stretch marks appear? You’ll also learn when to start applying stretch mark cream and how Rejuvaskin’s Stretch Mark Cream fits into your prevention plan.
When Do Stretch Marks Appear During Pregnancy?
Stretch marks often develop during the second trimester when your baby bump begins growing rapidly. The skin is forced to stretch faster than collagen and elastin fibers can rebuild, causing dermal tears that appear as reddish or purple streaks (Ud-Din et al., 2015).
Key contributors include:
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Rapid weight gain
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Hormonal changes, especially increased cortisol, which weakens skin elasticity
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Genetic predisposition
By the third trimester, many women start seeing these marks on the stomach, breasts, hips, and thighs.
When Should You Start Using Stretch Mark Cream?
Experts agree—early application is key. Starting in your first trimester or early second trimester gives your skin time to build resilience as your body grows (Elsaie, 2009).
While stretch mark creams won’t guarantee prevention (genetics plays a big role), consistent use:
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Improves skin hydration and elasticity
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Reduces the severity of marks
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Soothes itching from skin stretching
Pro Tip: Apply your cream twice daily—once in the morning and once before bed—for best results.
Can You Get Rid of Pregnancy Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are a form of scarring, which means complete removal is difficult. However, over time, they fade to a lighter, less noticeable color. Several treatments can reduce their appearance:
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Topical creams rich in moisturizers and active ingredients
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Microneedling or laser therapy for older or severe marks
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Retinoid creams (not safe during pregnancy but useful postpartum)
Early prevention with moisturizers has been proven to reduce the severity and appearance of stretch marks (Ogunbiyi, 2020).
Why Choose Rejuvaskin’s Stretch Mark Cream?
At Rejuvaskin, we understand the need for pregnancy-safe skincare. Our Stretch Mark Cream is:
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Paraben-Free
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Safe for Mom and Baby
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Infused with natural botanicals like calendula, arnica montana, and aloe vera
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Rich in hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
These ingredients support skin barrier health, reduce inflammation, and improve elasticity, making it ideal for preventing and minimizing stretch marks. Unlike greasy lotions, our cream absorbs quickly, leaving your skin soft and nourished.
The Science Behind It
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Aloe Vera enhances wound healing and soothes inflammation (Ogunbiyi, 2020).
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Calendula extract is known for improving skin firmness and reducing scar formation.
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Arnica montana helps reduce skin irritation and inflammation.
Pregnancy stretch marks are common and natural, but with the right care, you can minimize their appearance. Start applying Rejuvaskin’s Stretch Mark Cream early in pregnancy to hydrate, protect, and support your skin through every trimester.
Remember—hydrated skin is resilient skin. It’s easier to prevent stretch marks than to treat them once they’re fully developed. Be consistent, be gentle, and give your skin the care it deserves.
Works Cited
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Elsaie, M. L. (2009). Striae distensae (stretch marks): Etiology, evaluation, and treatment. Dermatologic Surgery, 35(4), 563-573. Link
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Ud-Din, S., McGeorge, D., & Bayat, A. (2015). Striae distensae: Pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment. Dermatologic Surgery, 41(7), 789-800. Link
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Ogunbiyi, A. (2020). Striae distensae: Evaluation, prevention, and treatment options. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 13, 493-502. Link