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Nourish Your Bump: Benefits of using a Tummy Oil During Pregnancy

June 7, 2024
4 MIN READ

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and a fair share of physical changes. As your body grows through the miraculous process of creating life, it's essential to nurture and care for it in every possible way. One hero of pregnancy care is the tummy or belly oil.

Tummy oils aren't just luxurious treats for the skin; they're potent allies in your quest for comfort and confidence during those nine transformative months. Let's delve into the wonders of tummy oils, how they work their magic, and why choosing the right blend can make all the difference. We'll also introduce you to our very own belly oil for pregnancy.

Tummy oil benefits in pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about many changes, including stretching skin, itchiness, and the possibility of stretch marks. Enter tummy oils, the soothing superheroes designed to combat these common discomforts. But how exactly do they work their magic?

Preventing pregnancy stretch marks

Tummy and belly oils, rich in nourishing ingredients, penetrate deeply to replenish moisture and support the skin's natural elasticity. This moisture boost not only relieves tightness but alsohelps prevent the formation of stretch marks. As your bump grows your skin stretches. When skin stretches rapidly small tears form within the dermis, and the scars that form as the skin heals are stretch marks.

Look for tummy oils containing plant oils that improve moisture and skin elasticity. Argan oil is great for improving skin elasticity and vitamin E and rosehip are renowned for their ability to reduce the appearance of scars and help regenerate the skin.

Calms and soothes itchy skin

Pregnancy hormones can cause changes in the skin, leading to irritation and sensitivity. Belly oils often contain anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredients, providing much-needed relief to itchy, irritated skin.

Bonding ritual

Beyond their physical benefits, applying a tummy oil can become a cherished ritual, allowing you to connect with your growing bump and cultivate a sense of mindfulness during this special time.

Ingredients to look for in a tummy oil

To ensure maximum efficacy and safety for you and your baby, opt for natural, plant-based oils. Choose high quality cold pressed oils over cheaper refined oils.

There are many natural oils with moisturising properties that are beneficial for a growing bump. Here are a few to look out for:

Jojoba oil

Similar to the natural oils produced by our skin, jojoba is a lovely lightweight oil that is quicky absorbed and helps keep skin moisturised and hydrated. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritation.

Argan oil

Argan oil is a lightweight oil that helps to keep your skin hydrated and supple. It is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which improve skin elasticity and help prevent stretch marks from forming. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe itchy and irritated skin.

Avocado oil

Rich in vitamins A, E, and D, avocado oil helps nourish and hydrate the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itchiness. Note that avocado oil is a heavier oil, and takes a little longer to be absorbed into the skin.

Sweet almond oil

Sweet almond oil moisturises and soothes dry, itchy skin.

Rosehip oil

A potent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, rosehip oil aids in cell regeneration and collagen production, making it ideal for reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Are essential oils safe in a pregnancy tummy oil?

It's best to avoid all essential oils in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the second and third trimester, it's perfectly fine to use a tummy oil containing essential oils that are not contraindicated in pregnancy.

Why avoid essential oils in the first trimester?

The first trimester is the most critical period of fetal development. Certain essential oils can stimulate uterine contractions, which could potentially lead to miscarriage. While research is limited, it is always better to err on the side of caution during this vulnerable time.

Belly oil vs belly or tummy butter

When it comes to caring for your growing bump, you might wonder if a belly oil or belly butter is the better choice. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Belly oil: lighter and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for daytime use.

Belly butter: thicker and more nourishing, perfect for nighttime use or for those with very dry skin.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference.

Introducing Mama Bare Belly Oil

Amaranthine's natural pregnancy belly oil, Mama Bare Belly Oil, has been crafted with care, using only the best organic botanical oils and extracts to nurture and pamper your growing bump.

Our organic award-winning pregnancy belly oil deeply moisturises and soothes itchiness. It improves skin elasticity, minimising the formation of stretch marks. Can also be used as pregnancy safe all-over body oil.

As your bump grows your skin stretches and this can cause itchiness. We've included botanical extracts of rosehip and amaranth to soothe and help relieve this discomfort.

Scent free, certified cruelty-free and certified palm oil free. Handcrafted in our Glasgow studio.

200 ml bottle which should last you through your entire pregnancy and beyond.

You may also be interested in our other pregnancy article: Are essential oils safe to use in pregnancy?

Natural skincare brand Amaranthine's founder, Sarah Rueger.

Sarah Rueger

About the author

Sarah is the founder of certified palm oil free natural skincare brand Amaranthine. She is a qualified organic skincare formulator and has diplomas in Beauty Therapy and Clinical Aromatherapy.