Treat stretch marks

How do you get rid of/ prevent stretch marks?
(25 Sep 2007)

Stretch marks are thin fine lines that are formed on the skin, when an individual either gains or loses excessive weight over a very short duration of time. Stretch marks may even appear at puberty when a person’s growth rate is higher or greater than normal. When the tissue lying beneath the skin is made to stretch to a very great extent, it leads to the formation of these marks.

Striae gravidarum is the medical term used to refer to this condition. Stretch marks can be caused due to rapid growth, pregnancy and weight gain or loss.

Here are a few home remedies that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Lavender oil is known to be highly effective on stretch marks. Simply apply the oil on the affected area 2-3 times in a day. This should yield results in a few weeks. Vitamin E oil and aloe vera gel are also equally effective in fading these marks. Empty the contents of 4 Vitamin A capsules and 6 Vitamin E capsules into a bowl. To this add quarter cup of aloe vera gel and half a cup of olive oil. Now blend them together, this mixture can be stored in the refrigerator and applied on the marks on a daily basis. If practiced in a consistent manner, this remedy will help lighten the marks within 2-3 weeks. Mix together 8 drops of lavender oil and 3-4 drops of chamomile oil to an ounce of jojoba oil. A mixture of these oils should be massaged on the affected area 2-3 times in a day. This remedy will also help in getting rid of the marks.

Cocoa butter is also a popular remedy for the treatment of these marks. Mix together the following ingredients; half a cup of cocoa butter, a tablespoon of wheat gem oil, a teaspoon each of vitamin E oil and apricot kernel oil and two teaspoons of grated beeswax. Heat this mixture together till the beeswax melts.
Once the mixture cools, empty it into an airtight jar and place it in the refrigerator. This mixture should be applied on a daily basis, until you achieve the desired the results. Include foods that contain vitamin k such as, dairy products (low fat), liver, tomatoes and green vegetables into your diet. Consuming nuts or seeds that are rich in zinc will also help in removing these marks. Drink plenty of water as adequate hydration will help in keeping the skin elastic.

answered by M W on 16 Apr 2010, 1:41:17

Stretch marks occur due to excessive stretching of skin. It usually happens in pregnant women and teenagers due to rapid weight gain or loss as well as puberty. Stretch marks start out as pinkish, reddish brown streaks. These streaks tend to fade out and appear as silvery lines of scar tissue. These marks do not go off totally although it may fade with time. It is difficult to prevent stretch marks.

Natural cures on stretch marks are:-

Regular exercise helps in toning of muscle. Exercise techniques like yoga and swimming help in improving the general well being.
For clear and supple skin, drink up to 8 glasses of water everyday.
Maintain an ideal body weight to avoid weight gain/loss. Avoid fatty, fried foods or foods containing additives or preservatives as these may change the fluid balance in our body. Have a well balanced diet with the incorporation of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin E maintains the skin well being. Natural foods like fruits and vegetables contain large amounts of vitamin E.
Olive oil can be massaged on areas where stretch marks are present. Aromatherapy oils like chamomile, a mixture of sweet orange, grape seed and wheat germ oil can be used occasionally.
Aloe Vera gel is considered beneficial in combating stretch marks.

answered by J M on 24 Dec 2007, 5:40:09

Treat stretch marks

How do you get rid of/ prevent stretch marks? (25 Sep 2007)

How do you get rid of/ prevent stretch marks?
(25 Sep 2007)