During mid-to-late pregnancy, if the skin becomes overly stretched beyond its normal elasticity, stretch marks may form. Excessive weight gain can also trigger them. Stretch marks initially appear red and commonly occur on the thighs, abdomen, or breasts. They rarely disappear completely but gradually fade into thin, silvery lines.
Pregnancy spots result from hormonal changes during pregnancy, causing pigmentation in certain areas of the skin. These spots usually fade or diminish after childbirth. Exposure to sunlight worsens their color, so pregnant women should avoid direct sun exposure. Use skincare products with minimal irritation and avoid heavy makeup.
Stretch marks form due to the significant enlargement of the abdomen, breasts, and thighs during pregnancy, causing the skin to thin and elastic fibers to rupture, revealing the underlying blood vessels. They typically appear in mid-to-late pregnancy. This is a physiological change that cannot be reversed once it occurs, though it does not harm health.
The following measures may help reduce pregnancy spots and stretch marks:
Pay attention to skin care and engage in physical activity before pregnancy; good skin elasticity helps withstand pregnancy-related changes. During pregnancy, avoid rapid weight gain—ideally no more than 10–12 kg. From early pregnancy onward, apply protective oils to areas prone to stretch marks after bathing. During showers, alternate between cold and hot water rinses on those areas to stimulate local blood circulation. <Pregnancy Spots>