A perennial bane that pregnant women have faced, is the stretch marks after childbirth. Though this isn’t the only reason for stretch marks. They can also appear as a result of a rapid weight gain (or loss) in both men and women. Women may begin to notice stretch marks due to bodily changes (thickening thighs, around hips, breasts) at the outset of puberty. Since we live in a beauty and image conscious world, stretch marks may lead to lowering of an individual’s self confidence.

However, stretch marks are not a medical condition that need medication or treatment. Do remember that taking care of your skin is a sustained effort and results are gradual.

Pregnancy Related Stretch Marks

Stretch marks appear in 9 out of 10 pregnancies and are usually visible around the sixth or the seventh month of pregnancy. A woman may notice pinkish streaks appearing around her stomach, breasts or hips. This is because of the stress of rapid weight growth, collagen and elastin (fibres that keep your skin tight) flex and crack the skin at some places. Scars are particularly difficult to cure once they have faded to white. Hence, your best chance of minimising their visibility is when they are fresh. A woman can start moisturising areas around the abdomen, lower back, breasts and hips as soon as the pregnancy test comes positive. According to Dr. Debra Jaliman, M.D, moisturiser helps retain skin suppleness, making it less prone to rip as your body starts expanding during pregnancy.

Dealing With Stretch Marks

Cosmetic industry is full of products and procedures that people use to get rid of stretch marks. However, chemical-laden cosmetic treatments have their own set of adverse effects. It is a good idea to consult a dermatologist if you are particularly concerned about stretch marks. Alternatively, you can try home treatments that can be equally effective and help decrease stretch marks and lighten them. However, natural treatments demand commitment from you with regard to following a regular skin care regimen and discipline in what to eat and what to avoid. 

Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Stretch Marks

Aloe Vera

Applying Aloe vera extract on the skin aids in regeneration of skin tissue. Aloe vera can easily be grown in a flower pot on your balcony. Massage the fresh extract from Aloe vera leaves on the stretch marks and leave for 20-30 minutes. Do it every day and wash it off with lukewarm water. 

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter has vitamins (A, E and K) and antioxidants that increase elasticity of the skin. It does so by penetrating the skin’s middle layer, called the dermis. When these vitamins are absorbed by cells, it results in a rapid production of elastin and collagen, both of which are responsible for the skin’s flexibility. Thus, Cocoa butter can be used as a moisturiser on the entire body too. However, for stretch marks, you can gently rub on the stretch mark and leave it for 5-10 minutes. There is no need to wash cocoa butter. You may want to cover the area with a piece of cloth though, as it helps in moisture retention. 

Some people mix and apply Aloe vera and Cocoa butter. There is no harm in doing it. However, do remember to rinse it with fresh water afterwards.  

Cucumber and Lemon Juice

Most of us know the benefits of cucumber and lemon in our daily lives. Cucumber soothes the skin while many households use lemon for keeping their skin clean (even for dandruff too). Lemon juice's inherent bleaching properties diminish or lighten the stretch marks, while cucumber juice gives the cool calming effect of leaving your skin fresh. Mix both in small quantities and apply on the skin for about 10 minutes. Wash it with warm water. Avoid going out in the sun without washing the lemon and cucumber mix. 

Apricot Mask and Oil

Apricots have excellent exfoliating properties, making them ideal for repairing stretch marks. Take 2-3 apricots, cut them in half, and remove the seeds. Crush the fruit to make a paste, then apply it to the stretch mark-affected regions for 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water and then continue the method every day for a month to observe the results. Because pure apricot oil has skin-renewing characteristics, it aids in the reduction of stretch marks. For best effects, massage some lemon juice into your skin.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is an excellent alternative for keeping the skin moisturised. Due to its unique viscosity, fatty acids of Castor oil penetrate the skin easily, making it a great choice for keeping the skin hydrated and moisturised. It has vitamin E, protein and minerals, all of which help in keeping the skin free from infection. However, do remember that it can smell awful, something that can be difficult to deal with, especially during pregnancy. 

These are some of the natural ways you can lighten stretch marks or diminish them. Most of these are available in the form of gels at a medical or cosmetics store. However, beware of the marketing gimmick promoting these products and consult a dermatologist before trying a cream or a gel. Some of them may contain harmful ingredients that may not be advisable for pregnant women.