Stretch Marks
Definition:
Stretch marks (striae) are indented streaks that often appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks and thighs. Over time they become less noticeable. Stretch marks are particularly common in pregnant women, especially during the last trimester. Treatment can make stretch marks fade, but it won’t completely remove them.
Signs & Symptoms:
Stretch marks don’t all look alike. They vary depending on how long you’ve had them, what caused them, where they are on your body, and the type of skin you have. Common variations include:
Indented streaks or lines in the skin
Pink, red, black, blue or purple streaks
Bright streaks that fade to a lighter color
Streaks on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks or thighs
Streaks covering large areas of the body
Cause:
Stretch marks seem to be caused by a stretching of the skin. Their severity is affected by several factors, including your genetic tendency, degree of stress on the skin and cortisone level. Cortisone a hormone produced by the adrenal glands weakens elastic fibers in the skin.
How To Cure:
- Castor Oil
Castor oil, which is used in the treatment of a number of skin problems such as wrinkles, age spots, moles, dark spots, fine lines and pimples, can also be used to get rid of stretch marks.
Apply some castor oil to the stretch marks and gently massage the area in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes.
Wrap the area with a thin, cotton cloth. Using a hot water bottle or a heating pad, apply some heat to the affected area for at least a half an hour.
Repeat this process daily for a minimum of one month to notice positive results.
- Egg Whites
Eggs are a rich source of protein. For stretch marks, you want to use only the egg whites, which contain amino acids and proteins.
Whip the whites of two eggs gently with a fork. Clean the affected skin area with water and then apply a thick layer of egg whites with a makeup brush.
Allow the egg whites to dry completely and then rinse the area with cold water.
Finally apply some olive oil on the skin to keep it moisturized.
Repeat the process daily for at least two weeks and watch for positive results.
- Lemon Juice
Another simple way to lessen stretch marks is to use lemon juice. Lemon juice is naturally acidic which helps heal and reduce stretch marks, acne, and other scars.
Rub fresh lemon juice gently onto the stretch marks using circular motions. Allow the lemon juice to soak into your skin for at least 10 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
Another option is to mix equal quantities of cucumber juice and lemon juice and apply the mixture on the stretch marks.
