Stretch marks are visible lines on the skin, which usually appear in the abdominal wall, over the thighs, upper arms, buttocks, and breasts. This cosmetic issue can cover large areas of the body.
We all know that the skin has three main layers: Epidermis (the outer layer), Dermis (the middle layer) and Subcutaneous or Hypodermic (the deepest layer).
The stretch marks form in the dermis when the connective tissue is stretched beyond the power of its flexibility. As a result, the collagen is weakened and its normal production cycle is hindered and damaged.
The culprit for stretch marks is usually pregnancy, but also there can be other reasons, such as sudden gain or loss in weight, rapid growth, heredity, and stress. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to reduce the appearance of unsightly stretch marks.
Natural Remedies for Stretch Marks
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a great natural remedy for stretch marks due to its acidic property. Hence, besides stretch marks, it can also reduce the appearance of acne scars.
In order to use this remedy for stretch marks, you should cut a lemon in two and rub it gently onto the stretch marks in circular motions. Leave it to soak into your skin for at least 10 minutes and rinse it off with warm water.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is another powerful remedy for stretch marks. It contains a lot of nutrients and antioxidants, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
You should use slightly warm extra-virgin olive oil and massage the area. Then, leave it to act for 30 minutes until it gets absorbed by the skin.
Egg Whites
The egg whites are packed with amino acids and proteins, which makes them the be a great remedy for stretch marks. You should whip whites of two eggs gently with a fork. Then apply the whites on a cleaned area with a makeup brush.
Leave it to dry completely and then rinse the area with cold water. Finish by applying olive oil. Perform this method on a daily basis for at least 2 weeks.
Aspirin
Using aspirin for the skin may sound a little bit unbelievable, but it extremely effective. Aspirin is one of the best and most effective remedies for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. It contains an effective ingredient, which is chemically similar to salicylic acid.
This compound helps exfoliate skin, remove acne and scars on the skin, and decrease the size of keloids.
In order to use aspirin for stretch marks, you should crush three aspirin tablets until they form a fine powder. Then, add a few drops of water until it forms a paste.
Apply the paste to the affected area and let it dry for about 15-20 minutes. Finally, wash it off gently.