Stretch marks are perfectly normal after childbirth and during pregnancy. And honestly, we all have had stretch marks at one point of our lives or another even without being pregnant. They are caused by the skin being stretched during pregnancy. This happens as a result of rapid weight gain.
Most women experience this on their tummies, breasts, arms and legs and should not be something to be ashamed of. You need to understand that being pregnant comes with many side effects especially physical ones and we have to accept that our bodies will experience these changes and there is very little we can be able to do.
Stretch marks appear to be purplish, black or white depending on one’s body. 90% of the women get stretch marks during and after pregnancy so you are not alone in this.
Here are some tips on how you can remove stretch marks after pregnancy.
Stretch mark oils
There are well-known oils that are very good at getting rid of stretch marks. They are easily available in local stores and very affordable. Research has shown that these oils are very effective when it comes to reducing stretch marks. You can also use them during pregnancy once you start noticing the appearance of stretch marks to start making them fade.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is nourishing for the body and actually has shown promising results in making scars fade. Rub generous amounts of coconut oil in the affected areas twice a day until the stretch marks fade away. You can also add coconut oil to your body lotion.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a great antioxidant that has been used by different cultures for skin lightening purposes. Add two spoons of turmeric to a container, add a spoon of honey and a few drops of lemon juice and mix well. Rub this mixture to the affected parts twice or thrice a week for effectiveness.
Just keep in mind not to wear bright clothing during the process or your good clothes as turmeric will stain them.
Keep your body hydrated
Take about 10-12 glasses of water per day. Remember your skin needs to remain hydrated and the best way to do this is by drinking enough water. Water helps the skin retain elasticity thus helping to lighten the stretch marks. This is very cheap and doable. Also avoid caffeine and alcohol as they cause dehydration.
Essential oils
Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to oils like castor and olive oil which you use daily and massage it on the affected areas for 30 minutes daily. This will help increase your skin's elasticity and fade off the stretch marks.
Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera has properties for healing and repairing skin. Massage raw aloe Vera gel on the affected areas every day after showering. Aloe Vera is good for hydrating the skin and keeping it healthy.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is good for restoring healthy skin. Make sure to eat foods rich in Vitamin A such as carrots. You can also buy vitamin A oils and massage them onto the skin. This will help fade the stretch marks and restore skin elasticity.