I understand your concern. Those unwanted, ugly stretch marks can be really irritating. Stretch marks generally occur during sudden changes in body size, such as during pregnancy or rapid weight gain. Materializing on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and arms, they can make you extremely self-conscious of their presence.
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Moreover, this is definitely going to limit what you can wear on a date or a social outing. These visible areas on your upper arms, shoulders and even your thighs will prevent you from wearing off-shoulder gowns, sleeveless tops in summer and even swimsuits and bikinis when you want to frolic in the seas.
The worst part is, stretch marks are genetic – so if your mom has them, the chances that you will get them too are considerably higher. How to get rid of stretch marks? Don’t worry, you can prevent them as well as reduce their appearance by following a few simple steps.
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1. Moisturize the area regularly
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In order to help your skin maintain its youthfulness and elasticity, it is important to apply lotion on it frequently. Use lotion on new stretch marks as well as on areas where they might show up in the future. Also, make sure that the lotion you are using is herbal and does not contain any harmful chemicals. An ideal lotion should contain wheat germ oil, olive oil, and/or aloe vera.
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2. Use creams containing Retin-A
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Retin-A or retinoic acid creams are extremely effective on stretch marks, and reduce new stretch marks to a great extent. Retin-A is known to boost collagen production, which helps your skin stretch out and avoid tears. But take care not to use this product if you are pregnant or are nursing an infant, since it can potentially cause birth defects.
3. Apply castor oil
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Castor oil is extremely beneficial for the skin and is used in treating a number of skin problems such as wrinkles, age spots, fine lines, pimples, and also stretch marks. Apply some castor oil on the affected area and gently massage it in circular motions for five minutes. Wrap the area with a thin, cotton cloth and apply some heat on the area using a hot water bottle or a heating pad for at least half an hour. Repeat this process daily for at least a month to notice positive results.
4. Use egg whites
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Eggs, as we all know, are a rich source of proteins, and can also be used to get rid of stretch marks. Whip egg whites using a spoon or a fork, and apply a thick layer of the frothy mixture on the affected area. Once it has dried completely, wash the area with cold water. Finally, apply some olive oil on the skin to keep it moisturized. Follow this beauty ritual religiously for two weeks to see positive results.
5. Use glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is known to increase collagen production, making your skin more elastic overall. It can easily be bought from a chemist shop, but it is better to receive a glycolic acid treatment from a dermatologist, as they would know the exact amount your skin needs. It is also totally safe and can be used even during pregnancy.
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6. Lemon juice
Lemon
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This is probably the simplest way to get rid of ugly stretch marks. Lemon juice is naturally acidic and helps heal and reduce stretch marks, acne, and other scars. Rub fresh lemon juice gently onto your stretch marks in a circular motion, and allow it to soak into your skin for at least 10 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Another effective way is to mix equal quantities of cucumber and lemon juice and apply the mixture to the affected area.
Stretch marks can make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable at times, but trust me, the remedies mentioned above can go a long way in not only reducing the stretch marks that have already materialized, but also preventing them in the future.
Featured image source: Shutterstock
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