Pregnancy brings great joy, but it rarely leaves the body unchanged. Pregnancy stretch marks are one of those souvenirs most of us would happily do without! Avocado is known for being rich in unsaturated fatty acids, and it also contains vitamins and minerals. Pressed from the flesh of the fruit, avocado oil is used in massage to care for the skin during pregnancy. Here we look at what this plant oil contains (fatty acids, vitamins, lecithin, healthy fats), how to apply it before, during and after pregnancy, and which precautions to take.
Pregnancy and the appearance of stretch marks
The remarkable potential of avocado oil lies in its composition. Stretch marks result from skin fragility. During pregnancy, the surface of the epidermis increases and the skin can “crack”, leading to the appearance of the unsightly marks known as stretch marks. That is why it is so worthwhile to take good care of your epidermis during this period!
We are not all equal when it comes to stretch marks! Some women naturally have more elastic skin, while others need to be especially diligent about keeping their skin hydrated. Taking good care of your skin is the best place to start, and avocado oil can be a lovely addition to your routine.
Avocado oil and its fatty acids during pregnancy
Avocado oil is well known for its ability to care for marked skin. Rich in fatty acids, avocado oil nourishes it and is often used in massage on existing stretch marks. A scientific study looked at this specific oil applied to wounds in rats (1): its results therefore cannot simply be applied to stretch marks.
This property is one of the benefits of its high content of fatty acids, particularly oleic acid. These components nourish the skin. The combination of these fatty acids is valued in skincare, making avocado oil a pleasant addition to your routine during pregnancy.
Avocado oil: rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Avocado plant oil is also characterised by its richness in vitamins A, D and E. These vitamins make this oil a nourishing product that is pleasant to apply every day.
Avocado oil nourishes the skin thanks to lecithin
Avocado oil contains lecithin. You already know this fatty substance: it is found in abundance in egg yolk! Among its many properties, it plays a part in forming cell membranes. When a mum-to-be uses this oil, it helps her not only to nourish her skin but also to keep it in good condition. Lecithin is therefore one of the components of this oil, which is used to care for the skin during pregnancy.
Avocado oil and its healthy fats
Also called unsaturated fats, healthy fats are mainly made up of several unsaturated fatty acids. This oil contains polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, which make it a nourishing oil that is pleasant to use during pregnancy.
Rich in unsaturated fats, avocado oil has its place in your daily skincare. During pregnancy, as you gain weight, your skin is put under more strain: remember to look after it every day!
How to use avocado oil for pregnancy stretch marks
As you will have understood, avocado plant oil is a great skincare product for pregnant women, or even those planning for a baby. You can use it at two stages:
- before pregnancy, to help your skin stay supple
- during pregnancy and after giving birth, to nourish your skin
How to apply it before pregnancy
Even if you do not have any stretch marks yet, massage avocado oil into the areas where these fine lines tend to appear. Focus on your tummy, of course! But do not forget other potentially vulnerable areas: breasts, thighs, bottom and arms. This way, you look after your skin as it adapts to the extra weight and to baby taking up more room.
How to use it during and after pregnancy
If you already have pregnancy stretch marks, focus your massages on the affected areas. Be diligent and consistent, as caring for your skin always takes time. Do not hesitate to repeat the process daily.
You can use the oil on its own, or mix it with a moisturiser, a body scrub or another body care product. Skincare is one of the keys to your well-being and self-confidence! Pregnancy stretch marks can be a real source of self-consciousness, so why not treat your body and skin to natural plant oils?
A few precautions to take
Do not forget that natural products always require precautions for use. If you have a known avocado allergy, you should seek medical advice. As a precaution, always start by applying the oil to a small area while waiting to observe how your skin reacts. If you have the slightest doubt (for example, if redness appears), stop using it and consult a doctor!
THE COACH’S TIP
As each plant oil has different properties, using several oils helps to combine their benefits when caring for skin prone to stretch marks. Have you heard of Stretch Mark Prevention Oil? Made with a blend of plant oils including avocado oil, it is designed to care for skin prone to stretch marks. It can be part of your pregnancy routine to nourish your skin, especially on the belly and breasts. This oil is of natural origin. However, pregnant women should ask their doctor or midwife for advice before using it.
The massage oil that helps prevent stretch marks from appearing*, during pregnancy and beyond
*User test on 21 volunteers over 3 weeks, based on participants' feedback.
- Why does it work?
Sources and references
(1) de Oliveira, Ana Paula et al. “Effect of semisolid formulation of persea americana mill (avocado) oil on wound healing in rats.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM vol. 2013 (2013): 472382. doi:10.1155/2013/47238
Frequently asked questions
Can I use avocado oil during pregnancy?
Every pregnancy is different, so ask your doctor or midwife before using avocado oil. Patch test it on a small area first to see how your skin reacts, and avoid it if you are allergic to avocado, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
When should I start applying avocado oil for stretch marks?
You can start using it even before you become pregnant, to help your skin stay supple. Then carry on throughout pregnancy and after giving birth, focusing on any areas already marked, ideally every day.
Where should I massage avocado oil?
Focus on your tummy, the area most exposed during pregnancy. Also remember other potentially vulnerable areas: breasts, thighs, bottom and arms. If stretch marks have already appeared, concentrate your massages on the affected areas and repeat them regularly.
Can I mix avocado oil with a cream?
Yes. You can use avocado oil on its own or mix it with a moisturiser, a body scrub or another body care product. You can also combine several plant oils, as each one has its own properties.
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Useful categories: Stretch Mark Care, Stretch Marks.
