How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks?

Getting rid of stretch marks in a completely natural way isn’t likely. They are a type of scarring and rarely fade enough to become invisible. However, there are some remedies that can help minimize appearance of stretch marks and help them to fade more quickly.

1. Vitamin A

• Vitamin A is referred to as a retinoid. Retinoids make skin appear more smooth and youthful. They are used in many over-the-counter topical cosmetic creams. Simply using a topical extract of vitamin A, or taking vitamin A orally, can contribute to your skin’s health and overall appearance. One study in particular identified retinoids as helping the appearance of stretch marks. A diet rich in certain foods, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, might also help you increase your vitamin A levels.

2. Aloe vera

• While little clinical evidence exists for aloe vera as a stretch mark cure, it makes sense. Pure aloe vera is both a natural healing agent and a skin softener. This makes it an ideal home remedy to try for stretch marks. Apply pure aloe vera from a plant to your stretch marks daily after your shower.

3. Hyaluronic acid

• Collagen is the protein in your skin that allows it to keep its shape and appear healthy. As we age, collagen decreases in our face and our bodies. Collagen production can be stimulated with hyaluronic acid, an extract available in health food stores and online. Hyaluronic acid can be absorbed by consuming a commercially available capsule or extract.

4. Coconut oil

• Since stretch marks are scarring from skin damage, coconut oil might help heal the appearance quickly. Coconut oil has been studied for its healing properties and found to reduce the time it takes for skin wounds to heal. Applying virgin coconut oil to your stretch marks each day might take away some of their red appearance.

Other treatments

• Laser therapy, needling, and microdermabrasion are three clinical treatments for stretch marks. Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the skin in a way that at-home remedies cannot. In clinical studies, microdermabrasion improved the appearance of stretch marks. Needling, which is a relatively new treatment in which collagen is injected underneath the top layer of your skin, is also effective.

Most of these treatments are not typically covered by insurance, and they can be costly. Only a dermatologist can tell you whether you are a candidate for these procedures.