Even though Rihanna and Chrissy Teigen have proudly shown off their stretch marks on Instagram, it doesn’t mean that we all find these long and narrow stripes appealing. However, today we bring you a list of natural home remedies that can help fade stretch marks.
#1. Aloe Vera
It is true that there is little clinical evidence to support the fact that aloe vera is a stretch mark remedy. However, the skin healing properties of aloe vera can help to treat stretch marks. Besides, aloe vera can also promote the production of collagen.
What you will need:
- Two tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel
- One teaspoon of vitamin E oil
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients together
- Massage the mixture onto the affected area
- Leave it on for at least an hour
- Wash it off
#2. Coconut Oil
As coconut oil is a traditional skin moisturizer, it can not only keep your skin moisturized and hydrated but can also prevent stretch marks.
What you will need:
- One tablespoon virgin coconut oil
Instructions:
- Massage the coconut oil onto the affected area for at least 10 minutes
- Make sure to massage it onto damp skin
- You may leave the oil overnight or wash it off after 1-2 hours
#3. Cocoa Butter
Did you know that cocoa butter has a great moisturizing effect on the skin?
Cocoa butter is the only butter that can seep into the dermis and not only the top layer and can help to soften stretch marks. For instance, during early pregnancy, it is recommended to apply cocoa butter to the areas that can be easily affected by stretch marks. Therefore, with its rich-nutrient profile, cocoa butter can help to prevent and treat stretch marks.
What you will need:
- ½ cup of cocoa butter
- ¼ cup of shea butter
- One teaspoon of vitamin E oil
- One teaspoon of virgin coconut oil
Instructions:
- Combine the two kinds of butter and the coconut oil
- Heat them (if required) for a few seconds to melt them
- Add the vitamin E oil and mix well
- Massage the mixture onto the affected area
- Leave it on overnight or wash it after 1-2 hours
#4. Castor Oil
Did you know that castor oil consists of ricinoleic acid and some other ingredients that have a skin-emollient effect?
What you will need:
- 1-2 tablespoons of castor oil (cold-pressed)
Instructions:
- Massage the castor oil onto the affected area
- Leave it on overnight and wash it off the next day
#5. Shea Butter
As a natural emollient, shea butter can moisturize your skin and improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.
What you will need:
- ½ cup of shea butter
Instructions:
- Melt the butter (by microwaving it for a few seconds)
- Massage it onto the affected area
- Leave it on overnight and wash it off the next day
#6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Even though there is no natural scientific backing for this remedy, apple cider vinegar is a famous home remedy that is believed to improve the appearance of stretch marks.
What you will need:
- ½ cup diluted apple cider vinegar
- Spray bottle
Instructions:
- Pour the diluted apple cider vinegar into a spray bottle
- Spray it on the affected area before going to bed
- Let it dry. Leave it overnight
#7. Olive Oil
Rich in vitamin E, some claim that olive oil is an excellent remedy for stretch marks.
What you will need:
- 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Warm the oil in the microwave for a few seconds
- Massage it onto the affected area for 5-10 minutes
- Leave it on overnight
#8. Lemon Juice
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that lemon juice can help fade stretch marks.
What you will need:
- 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- Two tablespoons of water (to dilute it)
Instructions:
- Dilute the lemon juice
- Apply it to the affected area and leave it to dry
- Wash it off after 15 minutes and apply a moisturizer
If you have used any of our tips, share your experience with us in the comment section below!