Stretch marks are usually associated with pregnancy but they can occur for other reasons as well. Rapid weight gain or growth can lead to stretch marks. These marks will start out as thin purplish or reddish lines that are a different texture than the rest of the skin. Eventually, these will fade a bit and become a bit shiny, along with being lighter in colour.
However, many would understandably like to get rid of their stretch marks, preferably in a natural manner. This isn’t really possible, as this kind of scarring doesn’t usually fade away completely. We can use some remedies to minimize their appearance though.
Let’s take a look at these below:
Make A DIY Sugar Scrub
https://pixabay.com/photos/scrub-sugar-scrub-sugar-care-spa-548198/
You can also use a sugar scrub to exfoliate away the worst of the stretch marks. This is a microdermabrasion treatment which indicates that you can be quite hopeful about it.
You can come up with your own scrub. All you need to do is mix a cup of sugar and a quarter cup of coconut oil. The resulting consistency should be something like damp sand on the beach. To reduce the appearance of the stretch marks, you can also add some lemon juice.
Use this scrub to cleanse the affected area while showering. You’ll have to run it in for at least eight to ten minutes, so turn off the shower and rinse off when you’re done. It’s best if you perform this ritual daily or at least several times a week.
Try Retinoid
One popular stretch mark removal method is the use of retinoids or Vitamin A. Several topical creams use this as a major ingredient, so you might want to try one of these. They’re usually the cosmetic OTC type, so you’ll be able to get them without a prescription.
Vitamin A will also be useful if you apply it in a topical extract form. Alternatively, you can try taking some Vitamin A supplements orally. Another way is to increase your intake of foods that are rich in Vitamin A. Two examples of such foods are sweet potatoes and carrots.
Nourish With Argan Oil
Stretch marks cans shrivel up and get an unsightly dry appearance. You can combat this by massaging argan oil into the affected area. This stretch marks method will help in healing that dryness and smoothening out the marks over time. However, you need to keep up this practice in your daily routine if you want it to be of any use.
Get Some Aloe Vera Gel
We all know the natural healing powers of pure, fresh aloe vera gel. If you’re lucky enough to have an aloe vera plant at home, you can utilize its gel as a natural skin softener and healing agent.
Apply the gel to the stretch marks after your daily shower or bath. You’ll have to let it dry up before you put your clothes on. Therefore, time yourself accordingly.
Use Hyaluronic Acid
Stretch marks occur when our skin stretches too much in a short period of time. This leads to the tearing that results in those marks, which can be more pronounced if there isn’t enough collagen in our skin.
Collagen is a protein that increases the elasticity and tautness of the skin. Healthy skin usually has a fair amount of collagen; unfortunately, this protein decreases with age. However, you can restimulate the production of collagen with hyaluronic acid. This is available in the form of an extract or a capsule. You can figure out which one suits you best.
Pamper Your Skin With Pure Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can help to heal the skin quickly, so try applying it on your stretch marks as well. It’s best if you use pure virgin coconut oil. Make sure you’re not allergic to coconuts before you use this remedy.
The Takeaway
Using chemical-laden treatments for stretch marks has several side effects. That’s why it’s much better and safer to stick with the more natural options. These might take some time to act, but the regular application will hopefully do the trick. With time, you’ll hopefully find those marks much lighter than before. Try out the remedies you like best and enjoy the results!
