Hair, Skin & Nails 3 MIN READ 1313 VIEWS April 12, 2022

Home Remedies for Stretch Marks That are Worth Trying

Written By HealthKart
Medically Reviewed By Dr. Aarti Nehra

Home remedies for stretch marks

A stretch mark is a reddened, indented scar on the human body that tends to appear when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. Elastin and collagen help in supporting our skin structure. Due to changes in skin elasticity (rapid skin stretching and shrinking), the collagen and elastin rupture. As the skin slowly begins to heal, stretch marks start appearing on the skin. Anyone, irrespective of gender, can get stretch marks. The two common times one can get stretch marks are puberty and pregnancy. Stretch marks can commonly be seen when a person loses or gains weight quickly. A family history of stretch marks is also how people can get stretch marks. Growth in puberty, pregnancy, and weight training for rapid muscle growth can be the other factors contributing to the occurrence of stretch marks. When stretch marks first begin to appear, they are slightly reddish, pinkish or dark-brownish, depending on your skin tone. Early stretch marks tend to be raised a little and can be itchy. Luckily, there are a number of home remedies for stretch marks that prove to be effective when tried out.

How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks?

Like most scars, stretch marks are permanent but treatments and home remedies for stretch marks help you make them look less noticeable. Stretch marks creams, lotions, and gels have proven to be effective for lightening stretch marks if applied regularly. Creams, lotions, gels, and other pharmaceutical products that are not essentially natural remedies for stretch marks have to be used with the following conditions:

  1. Creams and gels will be effective only on early stretch marks. Mature scratch marks are harder to fade.
  2. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before applying any product or undergoing stretch marks removal home remedy. During this time, certain agents present in medicines, like retinol, can prove to be harmful to your baby.
  3. Massage the product on your stretch marks. This helps the product go deep into the skin. 
  4. Stretch marks creams can take weeks to show even the slightest result. So, it is important to stay patient and consistent.

Natural Stretch Mark Removal Methods 

Listed below are different ways that can prove to be great home remedies for stretch marks:

1. Vitamin A 

Vitamin A is a naturally occurring retinoid, often used in over-the-counter drugstore products. Retinoid is known to promote smoother skin, making it look younger and flawless. This is why retinoids are often used in anti-aging and stretch mark removal products. However, Vitamin A in any form may pose a threat to your child, so avoid using products with Vitamin A if you are pregnant, lactating, or trying to conceive.

2. Aloe Vera

The history of this plant’s use for medicinal properties precedes its reputation. Aloe vera is a self-healing plant – if one of its leaves is broken, it will heal itself to keep the remaining part of the leaf alive. The jelly-like substance that is present inside aloe vera moisturizes and hydrates skin. Applying fresh aloe vera plant juice or a product that has pure aloe vera can prove to be the best remedy for stretch marks.

3. Virgin Coconut Oil 

According to a 2010 study, virgin coconut oil has proven to heal scars over time. A gentle massage of coconut oil on your stretch marks will help in moisturizing the area and keep itchiness at bay. With daily use, stretch marks may fade. Regular massage of virgin coconut oil may also help in prevention of stretch marks.

4. Argan Oil 

Rich in Vitamin E, massaging Argan oil on stretch marks will help in healing the broken tissues, which will gradually make the marks fade away.

5. Potato Juice 

Juice from a fresh potato is a good agent for eradicating stretch marks. Potatoes contain starch and other skin-lightening agents that help in reducing stretch marks. This can be one of the most effective home remedies for stretch marks.

6. Sugar

Sugar can be used in making sugar scrubs. Olive oil, lemon juice, and sugar granules can be mixed to make a paste. Apply this paste on your stretch marks and massage for 10 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Repeat this 2-3 times a week for a month to see effective results.

Conclusion

While stretch marks may be harder to fade and eliminate, there are ways in which you can prevent their occurrence to a certain extent. The stomach, thighs, hips, and bottom are more susceptible to getting stretch marks. Controlling your weight; adding nutrients like zinc, Vitamin C and D to your diet; and staying hydrated may help prevent the occurrence of stretch marks. Do try the above-listed home remedies for stretch marks and make sure you are consistent with them in order to see the best results.

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