Pregnancy Belly Mask DIY
As your belly begins to grow, the first thing that comes to mind is probably stretch marks. Even the fittest of expectant moms can develop stretch marks when pregnant. They’re common during pregnancy due to skin that expands and stretches, as well as a result of weight gain and loss. This is when a hydrating pregnancy belly mask can come in handy!
While your belly grows to accommodate your expanding uterus and baby, there are natural pregnancy belly masks you can do to minimize the appearance or even possibly ward off stretch marks.
In this guide, I share how to make your own pregnancy belly mask at home with just a few ingredients!
What is a pregnancy belly mask?
Pregnant belly masks have become very popular. They are meant to hydrate and relieve itchy bellies while minimizing the appearance of stretch marks and scars during pregnancy and postpartum.
How do you prevent stretch marks?
Since stretch marks are a result of the body expanding faster than your skin is able to keep up. Keeping your skin moisturized and hydrated could potentially help it. In fact, no oil will get rid of your stretch marks, but applying oils to your skin can supplement the natural lipid barrier, which helps the skin retain moisture.
According to a 2013 study, a specific anti-stretch mark cream containing rosehip oil and vitamin E oil helped prevent the severity of stretch marks in pregnant women with previous stretch marks.
A hydrating belly mask is the ultimate self-care mama moment. So, how can you make one? Let’s find out!
How to DIY pregnancy belly mask
Here is an easy DIY pregnancy belly balm for pregnancy that you can make at home:
What will you need to make this natural pregnancy belly mask?
- Rosehip oil – especially recommended!
- Essential oil – such as coconut oil, almond oil, avocado oil, or a thick moisturizer
- Shea butter (optional)
To make this belly balm, add a dime-sized amount of the rosehip oil to your carrier oil and mix.
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin A and essential fatty acids, specifically, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids linoleic acid. However, other carrier oils contain other nutrients – like vitamin E, omega 9, omega 7, zinc, and more. Combining rosehip with other carrier oils gives you other nutrients you need to support skin health.
Why do you need to dilute rosehip oil?
If you have sensitive skin, you may find it helpful to dilute rosehip oil with another carrier oil. Although rosehip is generally safe to apply as is, diluting the oil in a 1:1 ratio can help prevent discomfort.
Note: the information below is general and isn’t intended to replace the advice of your doctor, nor is it meant to replace your own knowledge of what works for your skin.
How to use this homemade balm as a pregnancy belly mask?
Follow the next steps:
- Start by cleaning your belly to get rid of any lingering dead skin cells.
- Then, apply your homemade balm to the target areas.
- Gently wrap your belly, not too tight.
- Sit back and let the belly mask work its magic.
- Leave on for about 20-30 minutes and then remove.
- Afterwards, massage additional coconut oil into your belly skin for longer-lasting softness.
When Should I Start Moisturizing My Pregnant Belly?
In fact, it is never too early to start moisturizing your growing belly!
What Does It Mean When Belly Is Itching During Pregnancy?
Itching is common in pregnancy. Stomach itchiness is often caused by a minor issue, such as dry skin or an insect bite. Usually, it’s thought to be caused by raised levels of certain chemicals in the blood, such as hormones. Later, as your bump grows, the skin of your tummy is stretched and this may also feel itchy. But if the itchiness persists or occurs with other symptoms, it might be a sign of a more serious condition.
Does itchy pregnant belly mean stretch marks?
Some women develop a red, raised rash that itches. This is called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP). It most often occurs in a first pregnancy. The rash may first appear on stretch marks on the stomach.
If you’re worried about your itching, or if you have severe itching, it’s important to see your midwife or doctor.
What can you do for an itchy belly when you’re pregnant?
There are a few things that you can do:
- The first one is not to scratch. Tempting as it may be, grating away at your skin only causes more irritation.
- Moisturize.
- Dab on anti-itch cream. Make sure it’s safe to use during pregnancy.
- Consult your health care provider.
What is the best natural oil to use on your pregnant belly?
- Almond oil
- Shea Butter
- Olive oil
- Rosehip oil
- Argan oil
Other pregnancy belly masks and products you may want to try
If you prefer to buy a pregnancy belly mask, butter, or oil, here are our 7 favorite product picks:
- Element Mom Mega Moisturizing Belly Mask for Stretch Marks
- Palmer’s, Cocoa Butter Formula, Tummy Mask for Stretch Marks
- Belly Fix Sheet Mask 4 Pack
- Palmer’s Tummy Butter
- Bio-oil
- Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter
- Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil
- Belly Oil
- Evereden Soothing Belly Mask for Stretch Marks
Bottom Line,
As you can see, there is no one pregnancy oil that can fix it all when it comes to pregnant belly stretch marks. Try to maintain a healthy pregnancy routine and keep your body and skin hydrated to avoid pregnancy stretch marks.
You can apply this homemade pregnancy belly balm to your belly, breasts, and hips every single night before you go to bed or directly after a shower as it’s most absorbed when your skin is wet.
It’s all about your habits girl, consistency is key!
Another thing you can do is to maintain a healthy weight gain during pregnancy. Though you do need some extra calories, it’s not necessary to ”eat for two”. You can ask your health care provider how much weight you should gain. Here is an interesting article about how much weight you should gain during pregnancy.
Related:
HOW TO AVOID GAINING TOO MUCH PREGNANCY WEIGHT
