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Simple Sugar Scrub (No Stretch Marks!)

The key to preventing stretch marks during pregnancy is to exfoliate at least twice a week with this simple homemade sugar scrub and rehydrate your skin every day and evening with shea butter. I like to use the shea butter first on my lady parts that are stretching (breasts, belly, hips and thighs) and then on the parts that don't stretch so much--the rest of my body.

The latter is my form of self-love, because even with a baby inside of me, I still can do some things out of love for myself.

The founder of Natura Culina, Lenka Tinka, sent me her homemade sugar scrub recipe (all but 2 ingredients) and swears by this process. She's taken many pregnant women through pregnancies, some with twins, and all of the women have come through with no stretch marks.

To be clear, stretch marks are not ugly or a problem, but they are a sign that the skin is deeply lacking hydration. Taking time out of my day to lather on what I like to call my sexy scrub feels incredibly indulgent in a time when I totally appreciate the little things I can do for myself--like nap! :)

Simple Sugar Scrub

2 Cups coconut oil

2 Cups fine sugar (has to be fine)

1 t essential oil (optional: lavender is nice to start)

In a large glass bowl, microwave the coconut oil for one minute until it's melted. Stir in the sugar. If it's too wet, add more sugar. If it's too dry, add more oil. Pour the mix into ball jars or glass Tupperware that you can reach your hand easily inside of. Close the jar tightly. Refrigerate overnight.

As far as the shea butters go, I am obsessed with the Natura Culina Delight butter for the daytime (it smells like coconut) and the Lavender butter at night to promote rest. Use code "Emily" at checkout for FREE SHIPPING off $55+.

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