While giving birth is one of the most joyous occasions in life, with all the happiness often comes a lack of self-esteem. Not feeling good in your skin can last for several months, causing the new mummy to re-evaluate herself. While some people might force you into returning to your old bubbly personality, you need to know it’s okay not to feel okay. Pregnancy and delivery are the two biggest emotional rollercoasters a woman can go through, and it’ll take time for you to go back to your old self. Feeling and looking your best doesn’t come overnight, but we have a few postpartum tips that will help you get there faster and start radiating that glow you had while you were pregnant.
Treat Stretch Marks And Dark Spots
Stretch marks are many women’s worst nightmare. Depending on your pregnancy lifestyle and skincare routine, you can end up with an array of stretchmarks on your hips, lower belly, thighs, and breasts. The skin will stretch when your body grows, which will cause red or purple marks on your skin. Eventually, they will lighten with proper postpartum skincare. Use stretch mark cream, ointment, and various products during pregnancy to prevent stretch marks. Olive oil is chock-full of nutrients and antioxidants that help lessen the visibility of stretch marks.
Stick To A Flowy Wardrobe
When it’s finally time to leave your home and go for a walk with the newborn, you’ll want to dress up and look presentable. You shouldn’t expect your body to bounce back to its pre-baby shape in the first few months. So, find comfortable pieces of clothing that also look cute. Flowy dresses you wore during pregnancy can still look fabulous if you have some belly weight left. Comfort is the number one priority, so wear non-constrictive clothes that allow you to move freely.
Dress In Prints And Patterns
The midsection is often the most problematic part of the body after giving birth. Leftover belly weight causes plenty of insecurities, so you’ll want to camouflage it well. Prints and patterns will do the work flawlessly. Stick to flowy dresses in whimsical prints to look and feel better in your skin. For spring, go with flowers, jungle vibes and pastel colours. If you’re heading out during autumn, animal prints will look beyond cute alongside stripes and geometrical patterns.
Accessorise More
Accessories are an essential part of every outfit. Hats will add a dose of style while concealing your bed head. You won’t have to stress out about not having time to wash your hair if you flaunt a trendy fedora and a burgundy dress. A long chunky scarf that can double up as a poncho will be your best accessory buddy. To add sparkle to your ensemble, wear a traditional gold bangle that will elevate your get up and make you look fierce. Bring attention to your face with dangly earrings, and elongate your torso with long chain necklaces.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Hydration is vital for your well-being. A glass of warm water in the morning is a much better way to start your day than a cup of coffee. However mad that might sound to a coffee lover like yourself perhaps, water will be a much healthier alternative because it will benefit your metabolism. Coffee acts as a stimulant that can quickly wear off, making your energy levels plummet. Drinking water also benefits your skin, preventing dryness and stimulating its elasticity. On top of that, the more water you drink, the more toxins you’ll flush out of your body.
Find Time For Yourself
Once you have a newborn in your arms, finding time for yourself becomes challenging. Babies require plenty of attention and care in the first months after being born. When the first three months go by, start including the dad more into the equation. If you’re a single mum, ask for help from parents or friends. You need to take care of yourself and find time to be alone to sort your thought and focus on your mental and emotional health. Whether reading a book, listening to soothing music or lying down in peace and quiet, mummy needs a break to be the best parent for the newborn.
Looking and feeling great postpartum won’t come easy. However, if you follow the tips we’ve listed, you’ll go back on track in your own time and with peace of mind. Remember not to rush anything. Going back to your pre-baby body will take patience and persistence, and you can still look fabulous while working on getting that old self back.