Looking to shed some pounds and avoid stretch marks? It sounds ideal, right? While staying healthy should be your main goal, you can still take steps to help minimize stretch marks as you lose weight.

Stretch marks usually show up as red lines on the skin that eventually fade over time. They’re most common during puberty and pregnancy, but certain medical conditions can also cause them. Although there isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent or treat stretch marks, they generally disappear on their own.

To help prevent stretch marks, maintain a healthy weight and take good care of your skin. It’s best to lose weight gradually through a balanced diet and regular exercise, aiming for about half a kilogram per week. Avoid crash diets, intense exercise regimens, pills, and supplements that promise quick results.

Plan a workout routine that helps maintain your weight, boost your skin’s elasticity, and improve blood circulation, which can reduce the likelihood of stretch marks. In addition to workouts, consider walking for 30 minutes, four days a week.

Stretch marks can appear quickly when you gain or lose weight. There are many creams on the market claiming to treat stretch marks, but most lack scientific backing. The best way to avoid them is by keeping your weight in check, especially during pregnancy and puberty.

Adolescents experience rapid growth, so it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and consult with a healthcare provider during this time. Puberty-related stretch marks typically fade as the body continues to grow.

Bodybuilding and weightlifting can also cause stretch marks due to the strain on the skin’s connective tissues. Consult a doctor or trainer for advice on safe exercises that won’t damage your skin.

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and prevent stretch marks. Aim to drink about 2 liters of water daily to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.

For stretch mark-free skin while losing weight, combine exercise with a healthy diet. A nutrient-rich diet not only helps prevent stretch marks but also improves overall health.

Focus on getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin E, which enhances skin elasticity, repairs tissues, and boosts collagen production—a key protein in wound healing and stretch mark prevention. Foods rich in vitamin E include eggs, fruits, meat, green vegetables, fortified cereals, nut oils, olive oil, nuts, whole grains, and poultry.

Vitamin C is another important nutrient for skin health, known for its antioxidant properties and collagen production. Eating vitamin C-rich foods like pineapple, cantaloupe, broccoli, mango, citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, spinach, cauliflower, and cabbage can help you avoid stretch marks.

As you embark on your weight loss journey, remember these tips to keep your skin healthy and minimize stretch marks.