Types of pregnancy skincare products

One of the most frequently lamented pregnancy related skin conditions is stretch marks. These marks appear in regions that have gone through a period of rapid expansion causing collagen formation to be disrupted and scarring to follow. When stretch marks first show up you'll notice them as dark purple marks running in lines, over time these will fade into a color that will better match the skin although they may still be noticeable.

Keeping the skin moisturized and supple during pregnancy can decrease the chances of stretch marks. Phytomer SeaTonic Stretch Mark Reducing Cream nourishes the skin while aiding in the regeneration of skin cells that build connective tissue. As the collagen is broken down through quick expansion, Phytomer SeaTonic Stretch Mark Reducing Cream is there to build it back. The result is fewer stretch marks and smoother, more beautiful skin. This cream can be used on the abdomen as well as other regions of potential stretching such as thighs, buttocks, and arms.

L'Occitane Mom and Baby Balm can also be used on stretch marks. Additionally, this product is wonderful for your baby's newborn, delicate skin as well as the dry, itchy skin that you may encounter during and after pregnancy. The shea butter base of this balm will easily massage into the skin leaving it supple, soft and glowing while the scents of calendula flowers, rosemary, and grape seed oil combine to make this both wonderful smelling and nourishing to the skin.

Also superb for mothers during pregnancy and for both mom and baby after birth is California Baby's Calming Botanical Moisturizing Cream. Made with only natural products, this aromatherapy cream contains scents of calming lavender which acts as an antibacterial as well. The soothing cream may help with baby's eczema and cradle cap plus mom's dry, itchy belly, arms and legs.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream should be a staple in every pregnant woman's cosmetic collection. The hand cream is amazingly moisturizing and perfect for pampering the hands that will soon be changing so many diapers and doing extra dishes! This special hand cream is made with a boost of Shea butter along with extracts of linseed seed, honey, sweet almond fruit and rosemary leaf.

Mustela 9 Months is a popular line of skin care products specially formulated for expecting mothers. Their rigorously tested formulations are screened and approved for prenatal safety, and help address common issues like stretch marks, dehydration and leg fatigue. Mustela also makes a complete line of baby care products, ranging from bath time to diaper rash and cradle cap to sun protection, and their L.A.B. products help restructure your skin for Life After Baby.

Finally, All Day Moisture Body Lotion by Belli Cosmetics is perfect for skin that needs extra moisturizing. This soothing cream is specifically designed for extra dry, itchy, chapped, cracked or otherwise damaged skin. It can be used on the entire body including the hands, knees, elbows and abdomen - areas which deserve extra attention during pregnancy. The moisturizing cream is hypoallergenic and contains the natural ingredients of essential oils, chamomile and vitamin E. This special formula can be used for all skin types - even extra sensitive skin.