Let’s talk about stretch cream
I can’t believe I still haven’t written about how I told my mom about the little nugget, since it really is an interesting/random story.
It was about 4 days after I found out and the Pilot and I decided it would be a good idea to tell the madre since she was here, he was not, and just in case I really needed her.
One night I was over at her house hanging out and she said “I’m going to take the alley dog some food.” It was 10pm and my mom was packing up a chipotle burrito container with dog food and chicken and grabbed a bottle of water plus another disposable bowl to use as a water dish. That’s the type of person my mom is… wanting to go take a dog she had seen in the alley some dinner, 10 o’clock at night. Since I wasn’t about to let the madre go traipsing around in the alleys at night by herself, I told her I’d drive her.
We drove three streets down, and down the alley where she’d seen the dog while driving earlier that day, and she left the food and water dish there. When she got back in the car, I started to tell her the news as we drove back.
“I have something to tell you but you have to promise not to tell anyone and I’m pretty sure you know already.” [My mom has supreme mom psychic abilities]
“Ok I promise. What?”
“We’re going to have a baby.”
The squeal that she made was the damn cutest thing I’ve ever heard. She was so excited.
“Mom, you can’t tell anyone! And not the family because everyone will know and I’m scared something will happen.”
She went on to hug me and assure me that everything would be fine, asked how I was feeling, how I found out, how I told Tom, and kept telling me she couldn’t wait to have a little baby to make a varullo (big fuss) over.
I was instantly so glad I told her and it made me even more excited about what was going on, which I didn’t think was possible.
A few days later, I was over at her house after work, lying in her bed because the fatigue had started to hit me like a mofo, and she walked in and said: “How are you feeling?”
Me: “Good. My hips hurt and I’m tired though.”
Madre: “Have you bought stretch cream yet?”
This is already hilarious because that’s exactly the type of thing my mom would warn me about, but even more hilarious because I’d not only stashed up on one bottle, but three, by that point.
(the other bottle was taken by airport security)
After crying tears of joy on and off the day I found out and scoping out designer diaper bags, I went on a mission for stretch cream. I have stretch marks already on my thighs from the weight I lost back in the day, but I’m kind of proud of them. My body changed quickly and that’s what happened- kind of like battle wounds 😉 On the other hand, when I have a baby I don’t need stretch marks to prove it. I’ll have, um, a baby to prove it. Haha.
Ever since I found out the news, I’ve been even more careful with the ingredients in my skincare and lotion, since skin absorbs the ingredients and chemicals that are included. I’ll read the ingredients and check for a few things: sulfates, parabens and anything with “eth” at the end of the word. While it’s debatable how much is actually absorbed into the skin and bloodstream and how much it would affect things, I’d rather just err on the safe side.
My first stretch mark prevention weapon was from Whole Foods, since I knew it would be easy to find something that fit the bill.
While the price tag was fantastic ($16), I wasn’t a huge fan of the product. It was thick, oily and greasy. The smell was mild and not too bad, but I used it for only a couple of nights until I moved onto this:
L’Occitane Supple Skin Oil. While it’s pricey ($34), it’s incredible. The smell is heavenly (like almonds- the Pilot asked what perfume I was wearing when I crawled into bed) and my skin actually absorbs the oil, so I feel like it must work better. I have to give a huge shout out to the girls at Sephora because when I told them I was expecting and looking for an awesome, natural stretch mark prevention option, all of the moms in the group raved about this one. They also said they have a client that has had three children and picked up a bottle during her pregnancy for each child. I also like that the box has instructions on how to rub in the oil to best prevent stretch marks.
I also used raw shea butter for a few nights (which was stolen by airport security when I went to Vegas- I wasn’t about to bring any of the oils with me and have them explode in my suitcase), it was more of a hassle than anything. Its the most pure and natural option (and very inexpensive- $7), but heating it up with my hands to rub it in + the stank smell on an already sensitive nose wasn’t going to work.
So there’s my stretch mark cream story 🙂 I’ll definitely be sticking with the supple skin oil for now.
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I love the organic belly bar!! http://www.bubbleandbee.com It saved my life! I didn’t get stretch marks until my son was overdue and they are white and not even noticeable. Unlike my sister who looks like she was in a fight with a bear. The creams and lotions really work 🙂
Sounds like you have an amazing mom!
That is such a sweet mama story 🙂 I didn’t get to leave a comment before but I’ve read all your posts and they are so wonderful… congratulations!
Does your mom have stretch marks? That should tell you what you’re in for. I’m pretty sure the creams/oils/potions don’t really work.
That said, if using a potion gets you a free Pilot massage, go for it! 🙂 Try pure cocoa butter, which is a solid, but smells like (wait for it) chocolate. You can put it in a wipes warmer or one of those coffee cup warmers to keep it liquid.
I use Alba’s organic Kukui Nut oil. I’m not pregnant but i use it on strench marks (boobs, butt) smells awesome and works really good too, i like to put it on after i shave my legs also.
I’m 29 weeks and so far haven’t noticed any stretch marks. Have you thought about using coconut oil? I wondered about using that… although it would be kind of greasy.
Your mom rocks!
I’m addicted to this shea butter, http://www.newmexicosoap.com/store/WsDefault.asp?Cat=SheaButter
She sells this hot plate that warms the shea butter perfectly and you can add your own scented oil – it’s heavenly!
Plus, she sells a goat’s milk soap that you may like.
I had no stretch marks my first pregnancy until 3 (!!!) days before I gave birth, haha. I was so bummed! The stuff you got from Sephora sounds great tho! Wish I had known about it– I just used the drugstore stretch mark cream. I wasn’t that good about using it until the very end. Love reading all your family posts 🙂
Telling you mom must have been an amazing experience!!! Thanks for the stretch cream advice… we are going to start trying soon and I want to be prepared for when I happens too!
I used coconut oil last time and so far this time, but after you described the smell of the supple skin I am really intrigued. Is the ingredient list good?
What are your favorite designer diaper bags so far? I almost bought a Kate Spade on super sale at the outlets a few weeks ago but I was good. 🙂
the ingredient wasn’t terrible- nothing scary on there
I used that mama angel baby stuff along with coconut oil, burts bees belly oil, jojoba oil and I still have stretch marks, lol, it’s genetics.
My good friend had a baby in November. She used plain cocoa butter twice daily and does not have a single stretch mark. Amazing…
L’Occitane Supple Skin Oil sounds awesome. If anyone is looking for a great inexpensive one my favorites is Olive oil! 🙂 rub on at night and put old tee on while sleeping. works great and is won’t kill your wallet.
I LOVE L’Occitane products, but yes, they are unfortunately pretty pricey. I accidentally left my travel size face wash in the yoga studio bathroom. Went to retrieve the next day…and gone:( Not very “yogic” if you ask me;)
Hi Gina!
A little off the subject, but I couldn’t help but notice that in your family blog you use the Pilot’s real name, Tom. I’ve never heard him referred to this way in your regular blog. Was this a conscious decision? It’s funny how when you see a face, and hear all about this person for so long how you have in your own mind what their name might be. I always thought of him as an Eric or Michael! hehehe! But I like Tom! That’s my man’s name, too!
Anyway, I’m so excited for you guys and this journey you’re on! I have 4 kids so I know what you’re in for 😉 A LOT of love (like you can’t even imagine), tears, joy and laughter! Have fun!
Melody
it wasn’t a conscious decision.. i wrote almost all of these posts not thinking or knowing if i would publish them 🙂
he does look like an eric or michael though!
Congratulations Gina! Like many have said, even though I don’t personally know you, I am SO happy and excited for you and The Pilot. You are right in that fate works in mysterious ways – I can’t imagine going through this without having your [huge] loving family and their support so close by. Enjoy being spoiled and doted on by everyone in your family – you deserve it 🙂
For nice designer baby bags, I got my sister in law a coach baby bag and she absolutely loves it. It comes with a nice changing pad and now that my niece is no longer a little baby that needs diaper changes, my sister in law uses the bag as a really nice tote for work, traveling, etc
Awesome, thanks for the ‘stretch cream’ recommendations, gonna pick some up asap! Like a lot of others here, i have heard rav reviews about coconut butter too.
I am just loving this ‘family’ tab Gina!
Like I said on Sabrina and Erica’s blog, I am SO referring back to this tab when I get pregnant some day 🙂
“I have stretch marks already on my thighs from the weight I lost back in the day, but I’m kind of proud of them. My body changed quickly and that’s what happened- kind of like battle wounds”
I LOVE THAT. I have some stretch marks on my thighs from when I lost/am losing weight and I’ve always hated them. But what a great way to think about them. Thank you 🙂
I hate mine too and I love Gina’s thoughts on hers. I might have to adopt that for myself too.
I”m glad you found a product that works for you! LOL on having the baby to prove it – true story! So cute how you told your mom. 🙂
I used coconut butter when I was pregnant, but I was lucky to get very light stretch marks, and guess where?! On my booty, lol! Only place I did, but they are faint, and plus stretch marks are a sign of beauty , when I see them on me, its what happened when I got pregnant long ago with Anthony : ) I love him so much!
Oh and I already scoped out my diaper bag for when I get pregnant, gucci or juicy : )
Love u!
You’re mom is amazing <3 I love how at 10 pm she was on her way to feed the little pupper.
I used the L’Occitane Supple Skin Oil my entire pregnancy and did eeeeeeeeverything right (gained a slow 19 pounds on my 5’0″ low 100 lb frame, exercised, hydrated, ate great). I got serious stretch marks, but so did my mom. But I’m also incredibly short :). I’m not trying to scare you, I just wish I would have been prepared for the fact that nothing you can do can prevent them. My son is a year old and they are much better now.
Congrats on your pregnancy 🙂
So far I am really liking Jason Naturals (Jason Organics? Whatever) Cocoa Butter lotion. It sinks in nicely etc. Might be something to consider for daytime use– the oils are ok at night but once you start wearing maternity clothes, you don’t want to get the oils all over the waistband of the pants.
Is Tom the name of the pilot? So funny to hear his name 😉 Love your “family” stories – you’re such a pleasure to read! If you have more recommandations about beauty products, I’m all… eyes 😉
yes there are no other men in my life haha 😉
The key to getting rid of the shea smell-Lavender oil. Add a decent amount of drops. Also, if you mix in some jojoba and PURE vitamin E oils, it will make a great body butter that’s easier to spread!
The Supple Skin Oil sounds perfect. I want to smell like that now! I never even thought about stretch marks during pregnancy before… something I will keep in mind when the time comes.
Unfortunately, stretch marks are all genetic. If you mom got them, then you probably will, too (and vice-versa). i didn’t use any lotions at all (except when my big belly got dry and itchy) and didn’t have any stretch marks at all. It’s just genetic luck – don’t stress over it!
OK, so I’m not the only one who noticed you used the Pilot’s name. Actually, I was like, “WHOA! Wait, who the heck is Tom? And does the pilot know about him?” It took me a minute to figure out that WAS the pilot, haha!
After having two kids, I have NO stretch marks. I used a cream I bought at a maternity store, but I wasn’t religious about using it or anything.
Congrats! What a fun and exciting time. 🙂
I have to echo what everyone else said about stretchmarks being genetic. I didn’t use any creams and barely got any stretchmarks. I know women who practically bathed in the special creams and still are saturated with stretch marks.
If you like to use the creams and they make you feel better, go for it, but stretch marks happen from the inside out, so i wouldn’t count on an external cream to prevent them.
Again, congrats 🙂
I really hope they work for you. I have a 3yo and a 1mo and didn’t use them, but did use shea butter for the itching-oh the itching!
Aw that’s so cute!
Also, I haven’t been on in awhile so CONGRATZ ON FINDING OUT! That’s so wonderful for you!!! I can’t wait to follow your stories here on your blog.
I get so excited now to check your family updates. 🙂
I am REALLY looking forward to a post on the things you did to improve fertility and health etc for baby… I have PCOS and know some things I need to do but I would love to hear the things you learned as well. 🙂
Congrats again!!!!
yes, i’ll be doing a full post with EVERYTHING in there 🙂
I would have been looking for the same 2 items right out of the box as well! Dresses would be next. LOL!!!
Don’t give up on shea just yet. You can put it in your food processor, with other base oils (e.g., olive, coconut), and add essential oils of choice. For example,shea-coco-lavendar might help with the nausea. Just saying.
Wow, awesome tip! Thanks!
First, I want to say congratulations! I have not read any blogs for a few days, and when I went to catch up, I couldn’t beleive I missed the news! You have such a passion for life and I know that you and the pilot will have that same passion for your family–that is one lucky baby. I know people keep telling you this, but you are about to embark on the most wonderful journey in the world. The love you feel is indescribable, overwhelming, all-consuming and immeasurable. I am SOOO excited for you and I cant’ wait to hear all about it on the blog.
As far as stretch marks go. I heard that coconut oil was good for them (I did not use anything and did not get them because my dermatologist told me that is was genetic and the creams did not work).
I know the shea butter alone can smell a little weird. But if you want to use what’s left over, might I suggest slightly melting it in a double boiler, along with some organic coconut oil. As it begins to cool, mix it with your favorite essential oil (I add a little 100% argan oil, too) before moving it to a container. It’s still not like the body butter you buy at the store, but I think if you whip it with stand mixer, it will get even fluffier and easier to work with.
What an awesome story about telling your mom!
Ok so I am one of those women who didn’t use any special creams and didn’t get any stretch marks but Ive heard it’s genetic in large part and I will say I have the type of skin that is really “hearty” that way? If that makes sense. I dont get red marks or scratch marks and I dont have any other stretch marks so I am probably not the best one to ask…the only thing I use and have used for the past 15 years, daily, on my skin is Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Lotion in the pumps (not the tubs) and that’s my #1 go-to daily lotion.
I am loving these post…I am glowing ear to ear for you!!!
Aw, that’s so cute about your mom! I’m sure she was just thrilled!
Side note- you’ve written about Tom a few times on the family post, and it made me realize that I had no idea that was the Pilot’s name! I guess I never really thought about his name since he’s always referred to as Pilot!
I have stretch marks on my thighs and hips so I really hope to avoid them on my belly. My mom had tons on her belly but she also gained 60 lbs, so I am hoping that I won’t follow in her footsteps on that one.
I’ve been using this belly cream by mama mio once every other day and the opposite day use plain cocoa butter 2 times. I HATE the smell of cocoa butter though so I might have to grab some of that l’occitane stuff!
RE: diaper bags. I personally decided not to go for the Gucci. I am going with a Lululemon bag since they are easy to wash, light, and have lots of compartments. Trig said if I do that I can get an extra “just because” purchase for myself (since I already own the lulu one), so I think that’s what I’ll do! Let’s see if I change my mind once that baby comes though….
Oh, and the designers go through bags really fast. I can’t find ones that I love from 2009 collections already! Even some from 2010. Can you believe it?!?! Crazy.
And last thought… do you put the lotion on one time a day or every time you get wet/shower? We are going on a BABYMOON next weekend and I wonder if I should just sunblock it up all day and use my lotion before bed???
babymoon!! so exciting 🙂 i just put mine on before bed.. hopefully thats good 😉 i’ll look into the mamma mio stuff too!
good to know about the bags.. i’m obsessed with a black 2010 tory burch one that i’m 100% sure i’ll never find
xoxo
Cocoa butter is SO much better than shea butter. Smells better too.
Just catching up on blogs after being out for a while and just wanted to say congratulations! It is such an incredible blessing and I wish the best for all three of you! My husband and I want a baby so badly but it’s just not the right time so I will definitely be living vicariously (and maybe a teensy bit jealously) through your journey. <3
Hey Gina,
Congratulations on your pregnancy. My son is almost 5 months and they have been the best of my life.
I used apricot kernel, almond or coconut oil through my preggo, as did my sisters and none of us got any stretch marks. These oils are great as they are 100% safe plus they are inexpensive.
Xxxxxx
Um, wait a minute!!! Who’s Tom???? And does the Pilot know about him??? HAHAHA
haha
Love reading all the family posts! I didn’t know the Pilots name was a secret? I remember when you talked about the Tom shoes and that they shared the same name as the Pilot?…Is that sad that I remember that?? LOL
Anyway, I’m 9 months pregnant and have the Petunia Picklebottom bag and I think it’s the most beautiful diaper bag ever, buuttt haven’t been able to use it yet to tell you if it’s worth the money.
I don’t have any stretch marks yet but my Mom did get them so I just mentally prepared myself for them. I wish I had known about the lotion your using! I did my research but everything had that shea/cocoa butter smell and I hated it so I used Burts Bees Mama Bee’s Belly Balm for the entire pregnancy. It doesn’t have a funky smell and I loved how smooth it made my skin. Plus it was all natural and $10 bucks =)
Anyway, I’ll love reading about your journey along with your other posts.
not a secret at all 🙂
thank you!! congrats on your little bundle of joy- i bet you can’t wait to meet him/her 🙂
Have not been pregnant but I was on the evil prednisone and gained weight fast, I was on it for 9 months. I ended up with really bad streach marks on my belly. So when I saw my derm I asked him what I could do he said once you have them all they can is a laser treatment, but to prevant them just make sure you stay well moisturized. He said you can buy all them expensive creams and it won’t help all that matters is, if your keeping your skin moisturized that will prevent it. I think most woman tend to have streach marks on our boobs and hips because thats were we grow the most when we hit Puberty. It can be hard to find but I love hemp oil, I have to be careful as I have very sensitive and I’m allergic to aloe which is in everything now.
Totally unrelated but I kinda LOVE your nails!! And these baby posts? Love them just as much 🙂
thank you! 🙂
Word of advice – rub that oil over your entire belly. I used pure (and cheap!) vitamin E oil on my belly and boobs while I was pregnant. I concentrated putting the oil on the sides of my belly thinking that’s the only place I could get stretch marks. I thought I had successfully made it through my pregnancy without stretch marks, but a couple weeks after giving birth, after my tummy shurnk, I discovered stretch marks around my belly button, which I rarely “buttered up.” I’m hoping they’ll be less noticeable when the pooch gets firmer, but they might be here to stay 🙁
good to know- i’ve been very generous with using the oil haha.
yours will definitely fade as time goes on
xoxo
I’m in agreement with everyone who recommended cocoa butter. I used it during both pregnancies, and my results were nearly stretch mark-free. I have the tiniest dot (seriously, smaller than the top of a pencil eraser) on each hip. No one ever notices them but me. I think I got them when my hips began to widen during my first pregnancy. It happened so suddenly. Then, I started applying the cocoa butter.
As for a diaper bag, I’ve got a Skip Hop messenger bag (http://www.skiphop.com/product/21000.html) that my hubby and other family members have carried. When I’m the one toting the diapers, I usually just toss them, some wipes and a change of clothes, etc., in a large purse with my stuff. It’s easier than carrying two bags. Since I’m vegan, I’m a big fan of Matt & Nat bags and Vera Bradley (which happens to sell a few “baby bag” styles: http://www.verabradley.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&keyword=baby+bag&x=0&y=0).
That’s such a sweet story. I haven’t had babies yet, but I already have stretch marks from gaining/losing weight so much. I’ll try to be proud of them instead of embarrassed by them.
The best thing those oils are for is the itch! As your belly grows and your skin stretches the itch is just incredible (in a bad way!), especially if you get a prolific amount of stretch marks like I did. I’m fair-skinned (red-head) so they were pretty terrible. I felt so…gorilla-like…but I had to scratch my huge belly all the time!