Stretch marks are a fact of life for many pregnant women. The reddish marks appear on parts of your body where you suddenly gain or lose weight, as during pregnancy. Though you can't absolutely prevent stretch marks--some people are genetically more likely to get stretch marks than others--you can make your own stretch mark prevention cream for pregnancy that will reduce your risk of getting stretch marks and minimize the appearance of any marks that appear.
Step 1
Put a large bowl in the refrigerator to chill.
Step 2
Heat 1 cup almond oil, 1 cup apricot oil, 1/3 cup cocoa butter and 1/3 cup beeswax over low heat, stirring frequently, until completely melted and combined.
Step 3
Heat 1 cup of distilled water over medium heat until it's warm, but not hot. Heat it to approximately the same temperature as the oil-cocoa butter-beeswax mixture.
Step 4
Remove the bowl from the refrigerator. Pour the warm oil mixture carefully into the cooled bowl, then slowly pour in the warm water, stirring constantly as you add water.
Step 5
Beat the mixture in the bowl with a whisk or fork, beating constantly until the mixture has cooled and the water and oil no longer separate. Stop when the mixture becomes thick and opaque.
Step 6
Squeeze in about 20 drops of vitamin E oil. Stir to incorporate.
Step 7
Transfer your cream to jars or other containers with a spoon. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Apply the mixture generously to your belly twice a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the top of your cream in its container to give it a pleasant scent.
- If you notice itching or discomfort after using your homemade stretch mark prevention treatment, discontinue use and check with a dermatologist if your discomfort persists.
Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- 1 cup almond oil
- 1 cup apricot oil
- 1/3 cup beeswax
- 1/3 cup cocoa butter
- 1 cup distilled water
- 20 drops vitamin E oil
References
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Organic Living"; Eliza Sarasohan and Sonia Weiss; 2009
- NY Times: The Claim--Cocoa Butter Can Remove Stretch Marks
- Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: DIY Recipes
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