The skin has three main layers, and when those layers are stretched suddenly by weight gain or altered by hormone imbalance, stretch marks can appear. Now because of the fluctuation of weight that almost everyone experiences in their lifetime, at one time or another most people do have stretch marks. In women specifically, it is projected that at least 80 percent of women who have never been pregnant have stretch marks somewhere on their body. So let's do away with the myth that only pregnant women get them and they are some terrible, shameful thing.
The existence of stretch marks is so prevalent yet there is still a big stigma behind having them. However, they are perfectly normal occurring skin markings and those who have them shouldn't be shunned or made to feel bad. Luckily, there are natural remedies to help soothe them and potentially help them fade. But again, they are perfectly normal and a good part of the population does have them somewhere on their bodies.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a great oil to put on stretch marks to promote fading, especially in the treatment of fresher stretch marks. Suggested use is to apply a thick layer of the oil on the area with the marks and then cover it with plastic wrap. Next, apply a heating pad for 20 minutes. This helps to fade the discoloration and also promotes elasticity in the skin, preventing further marks from forming.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is another natural component that will help treat the appearance of stretch marks. Aloe vera has many different soothing and healing properties, which makes it a good option for those who are trying to treat and fade their stretch marks. Applying the gel directly onto the marks and then washing it off with warm water after it has been fully absorbed will help lessen the appearance of the markings.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is another great option for those who want to apply something to their skin to help alleviate the look of stretch marks. It is used notoriously for anti-aging purposes and it is also known to promote smooth and well-moisturized skin. Skin that is not properly moisturized and tended to can be more susceptible to newly formed stretch marks.
Overall, it's important to understand just how common and prevalent these markings are and how harmless they are as well. There is simply no such thing as skin that doesn't have some type of marking or supposed imperfection on it - whether that be a mole, a stretch mark, a blemish or discoloration.
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Reviewed By:
Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.