Stretch marks can be an unsightly and embarrassing skin condition. Many different factors can cause their onset, from the most common cause of pregnancy to the lesser known cause of overuse of cortisone creams. Regardless of their origin, most people are eager to get rid of them or diminish their appearance as much as possible. Treatments. such as laser surgery and prescription creams, are the most effective, but are also expensive. However, you may want to consider these cheaper remedies first that could give you satisfactory results.
Adequate Water Intake
One of the best ways to prevent stretch marks altogether is to drink plenty of water. During periods where stretch marks are most likely to form such as pregnancy or rapid weight loss or gain, you should drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water each day. Proper hydration will help keep the underlying layers of skin where stretch marks additionally form more pliable and resistant to stretching.
Daily Massage
According to a study by the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group on the efficacy of stretch mark creams, daily massage of stretch mark prone areas may be just as helpful when used in conjunction with any type of cream or oil. The study did not produce any definitive evidence that any particular ingredients used in the creams or oils had as much benefit as massage by itself. Massage improves circulation to the stretch mark areas and helps facilitate skin cell renewal. The duration of the massage generally should be at least three to five minutes, at least twice a day.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation of the outer skin layers is very important in helping skin restore itself. When the skin is being stretched, this becomes even more important. Use a body scrub daily and massage into skin for about three minutes while showering or bathing. You can also get good results using an exfoliating body cloth or glove.
Homemade Creams and Oils
Making your own concoction of stretch mark cream or oil can be a less expensive alternative to purchasing something over-the-counter. You can also control the quality and concentration of the ingredients you use. Typically, effective stretch mark creams follow the same pattern or combination of ingredients. Vitamin E is important to include in the ingredients, as may be cocoa butter, olive oil, Vitamin A, aloe vera or elastin. Some combinations work better for some people, so you may have to experiment to get a blend that is right for your skin.
Vitamins
While it is helpful to apply vitamins such as A and E topically, it is just as important to take these vitamins, along with Vitamin C, internally. According to Homemade Medicine, a diet rich in these vitamins promotes healthy collagen production. Since abnormal collagen formation is the underlying cause of stretch marks, feeding your body what it needs to build new collagen will help prevent and repair existing scars.
