The minute I found out the happy news, I became very aware of my skin on my stomach and 2 words that becomes swear words: STRETCH MARKS. “Start early,” is the advice I got from my friends, “Prevention is better than cure!”

I started with coconut oil and would rub a small amount on every morning, but I knew I needed something better and I knew I had to get the Mama Mio Range. I’m familiar with the brand, from going to some of the launches, being introduced to the Mio Range 3 years ago, and from friends talking about the Mama Mio range.

This is probably one of the best gifts you can give a pregnant woman. It’s something especially for her (because from here on out, all gifts are for baby and Mom’s-to-be stop spending on themselves and buy things for the little one on the way.)

There are certain oils/creams/products you cannot use when you’re pregnant and that’s why I love this range, because it’s especially made for pregnancy, so you know you’re safe.

Mama Mio’s goal has always been simple: to create an entire range of clean products free of nasties, safe, and able to elastify, calm, nourish and protect your skin while making sure that each and every product smells incredibly good, and that your skincare routine becomes a real and memorable ritual – A ritual that celebrates you and helps you feel confident and happy in your skin.

By the end of each day, for some reason, my tummy swells. It’s the funniest thing. In the morning, I wake up and it’s flat-ish – OK, not so much anymore, but it’s definitely the smallest in the morning. By 7pm, it’s like someone has inflated me and my tummy swells. My skin feels itchy, it feels like it’s stretching and I cannot wait to get home, take off my bra (haha) and rub the oil and cream into my tummy – instant relief. I also adore the smell – it’s so good.

The Tummy Rub Oil is by far my favourite.

It’s Omega-rich and the superhero in fighting stretch marks. I know it’s going to sound strange, but it isn’t too oily. It’s going to sound even stranger, when I explain what it’s packed with. Here we go – the motherload of brilliance: organic Coconut, Avocado, Sacha Inchi, Olive, Rosehip, Argan and Sweet Almond Oils. All of these oils are safe for pregnancy. It also has Vitamin E, Omegas, antioxidants and amino acids.

I think it’s not overly oily because my skin soaks it up within minutes. After 2-5 minutes, I’m then left with a moisturized, protective sheen on my tummy. I’ve also applied it and then put my clothes on after the 2-5 minutes are up and there have been no oily marks.

If you’re not an oil type of person, The Tummy Rub Butter is for you.

It has all the oils as above, with Organic Shea butter. It’s thick, luxurious and melts into your skin with a light little massage. 

The only thing stretched… is my belly button and scar. *Touch wood*

With both these products, a little goes a long way, so it lasts.

You know that pregnancy glow everyone talks about? Here’s the secret:

Mama Mio’s Gorgeous Glow face wash.

Gorgeous Glow is soap and Sodium Lauryl Sulphate FREE. It gives you a deep and thorough cleanse, it balances your skin with Probiotics and Omegas and has natural exfoliants, like Lactic Acid plus Tea Tree extract which keeps hormonal breakouts at bay. The Green tea is a rich antioxidant and Evening Primrose oil, Sweet Almond, Avocado and Olive oils have the Omegas, Vitamin D and E that helps skin look strong and supple. Oh and don’t be scared of the oils (yes, those of us with combo and oily skins) – it’s perfect for all skin types! It balances everything perfectly.

To order the beautiful range for yourself or as a gift, please visit www.poisebrands.co.za to find a stockist near you or order directly. You can also contact Poise Brands on +27 11 033 0500. Sign up for their newsletter for all the latest specials: http://eepurl.com/civn8L.