Want to get
that pregnancy glow and avoid stretch marks? Co-founder of Mama Mio, Tanya
Kazeminy Mackay, shares her skin secrets for mums-to-be
Stretch-proof your skin
'Focus on building the strength and
elasticity of your skin - especially the area from your boobs to your bottom -
as your bump grows.If your mother has stretchmarks,
you're probably more vulnerable, but think about it this way: genetics has a
hand in the wrinkles around your eyes and we all use eye cream to minimise them
for as long as possible. 'Look for products rich in fatty
acids, su
ch as omega 3, 6 and 9 oils, as they're highly moisturising - your
usual body lotion won't do. When it comes to your face, you may need to combat
hormonal acne and you will need extra sun protection. Some women develop dark patches,
known as chloasma, as a result of excess melanin, which can get worse with
exposure to sun.
Don't be
afraid of the spa
'Although treatments involving your
tummy area are not a good idea, you can still enjoy pedicures, facials, and
head and neck massages.
'Many women want to switch to
products containing less chemicals, such as solvent-free nail varnish, and also
worry about using essential oils. In fact, after the first trimester, many
common oils such as lavender are safe - just use a few drops at a time.'Ones to watch? Clary sage
encourages uterine contractions, and jasmine, peppermint and eucalyptus should
be avoided completely because they have a stimulating effect.
'When booking a spa treatment, ask
the therapist if they have special maternity beds, which have a space for your
bump, allowing you to lie comfortably on your front. Try Elemis spas.'
Make fats your
friend
'Everyone needs essential fatty
acids (EFAs), but when you're pregnant, your baby is using them to make its
brain and eyes. This means your levels are at their most depleted just when
your skin is undergoing its biggest challenge.So include plenty of EFAs in your
diet (from oily fish, nuts, seeds and green vegetables), and use EFA-rich skin
products - look out for oils such as rosehip seed, wheatgerm and sweet almond.
And keep this regime up after
delivery - if you breastfeed, you lose 50mg to 80mg of fatty acids each day.'
With thanks to:
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/pregnancyandbirth/beautytips.htm
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