There’s no way to completely avoid stretch marks, but there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting them. For example, staying hydrated keeps your skin moisturized and elastic, and moisturized skin is less likely to develop stretch marks than dry skin. And maintaining a healthy weight, especially during pregnancy, can also help. You can also reduce your likelihood of getting stretch marks by: • Not smoking • Avoiding anabolic steroid use • Eating a healthy diet • Wearing sunscreen