How to Reduce Stretch Marks Naturally

Stretch marks are the outcome of over-stretching of the skin within a short period, beyond its elasticity limit. Affecting both men and women, these are one of the most commonly manifested skin conditions. In dermatological terms, stretch marks are referred to as striae. The main reason behind appearance of stretch marks is scarring of the tissues due to wear and tear of the underlying skin layers.

Stretch marks are evident in people, who have experienced rapid increase in size. Thus, changes in body physique like weight gain, weight loss, muscle building and pregnancy result in skin scarring and stretch marks. And according to skin experts, the hormonal changes that accompany body metabolic changes are also responsible for causing stretch marks. Whatever be the cause, 'how to reduce stretch marks naturally' is a common doubt for everyone who have this unsightly skin condition.

Ways to Reduce Stretch Marks Naturally

Before we delve more on skin care and how to reduce stretch marks fast in the natural way, it is to be kept in mind that prevention is the key for dealing with this skin problem. Because no matter how much we try for curing it, a stretch mark does not disappear completely. At the most, the color of the stretch mark will fade or the size will reduce to a certain extent. Also, for best results, act immediately as soon as the signs appear. Following are some of the recommended tips for reducing stretch marks naturally:

Moisturize Skin: Moisturizing the skin to reduce stretch marks is more effective, if followed before the appearance of fine discolored lines. For example, an expecting mother in her early months of pregnancy should apply a good lotion several times a day to prevent stretch marks. For existing stretch marks, moisturizing the skin also helps in restoring the elasticity and reducing stretch marks.

Use Cocoa Butter: Massaging cocoa butter over the stretch marks is also an effective natural remedy to reduce stretch marks. Enriched with different types of antioxidants and skin vitamins, applying cocoa butter for 2-3 times a day will help in getting rid of the fine lines. You can purchase 100 percent cocoa butter formulation for getting improved skin results.

Apply Wheat Germ Oil: Another natural skin care product to get rid of stretch marks is wheat germ oil. Studies have shown that wheat germ oil is beneficial to reduce stretch marks that are just about to appear, but not the established ones. Other natural oils that are good for reducing stretch marks include olive oil, cod liver oil and flaxseed oil.

Exfoliate Skin: Regular skin moisturizing accompanied with exfoliation are recommended for reducing stretch marks. Skin exfoliation, as we all know, removes dead cells and improves the skin texture. While bathing, you can make use of a soft body brush or loofah to exfoliate skin. And apply moisturizer when the skin is still wet to help treat stretch marks.

Skin Vitamins: Vitamins that are essential for maintaining skin health are vitamin A, C and E. Ensure that you get all these through your diet or as dietary supplements. Vitamin C also promotes collagen production in the body, which is responsible for increasing skin elasticity. Adding glycolic acids and retinoids is also effective for minimizing stretch marks.

Massage Skin: While applying a skin moisturizer or essential oils, make sure you massage the area affected with stretch marks for about 10 minutes. This will help the skin formulation penetrate deep thus improving blood circulation, which in turn hastens the healing time. Also, perform exercises to tone up the loose skin and treat stretch marks.

These were the effectual steps on how to reduce stretch marks naturally. As with any skin condition, drinking an adequate amount water and consuming healthy foods with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables will help rejuvenate the skin and reduce stretch marks. Follow all these tips for reducing stretch marks naturally and you will feel and notice the difference very soon.