Online and in the shops: Creams

IN THE SHADE

With a UPF rating of 50+, this pop-up UV Playshade protects children from sun and wind. It has large sand pockets to weigh down the tent on the beach and mesh windows for ventilation, as well as ground stakes for the garden. It folds flat into a small round carry bag, so it’s easy to take to the park on sunny days too, €29.99; www.babytravelshop.ie

AT A STRETCH

Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of skin fibres through rapid weight gain and hormonal changes in pregnancy, resulting in a series of lines which start out red/ purple and eventually fade to silver. They affect 50% to 80% of pregnant women and chances are if your mother or grandmother has them, you’re more likely to develop them too. “Although it isn’t possible to completely avoid stretch marks, there are many things that can be done during and after pregnancy to minimise their appearance,” says midwife manager Margaret Merrigan Feenan.

She advises making sure your diet is full of nutritious food to ensure weight gain is steady and moderate. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, vitamin E and C and omega 3s will improve skin elasticity, while drinking lots of water helps keep the body detoxified and skin cells plump, letting them bounce back when stretched.

A stretch mark cream from early pregnancy can help to keep skin supple. Bepanthen Stretch Mark Cream contains the plant extract Centella Asiatica to minimise the development of stretch marks, €26.99 from pharmacies; www.bepanthen.ie

NURSERY SALE

The sale at Mothercare and the Early Learning Centre continues until July 29, with up to 50% off nursery items and toys. Included in the sale are Freddie and Flora the Fish bubble machines which have been reduced to €14.99. The pink and blue fish blow hundreds of bubbles to create a fun time in the garden and are suitable for children aged 3+; www.mothercare.ie

BUMP BALM

Arnicare Arnica Kids Stick, glides on to soothe bumps. Pop this natural balm into your pocket, or handbag when out and about with kids aged three+, €7.99 from pharmacies; www.nelsonsnaturalworld.com