Home Treatment for Stretch Marks
Stretch marks can be very unsightly and easily can make once-confident women very self-conscious. Stretch marks are essentially scar tissue caused by rapid stretching of the skin, caused by either pregnancy or rapid weight gain. Stretch marks are difficult to eliminate, but constant care and attention can help you avoid and minimize them. Does this Spark an idea?
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Prevention
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The first key to eliminating stretch marks is to avoid them. This can be accomplished by moisturizing the skin religiously. Do this during pregnancy when the body and stomach are stretching, if you are a weight lifter, or if you notice you are beginning to get stretch marks. Among the most popular products for keeping stretch marks at bay are cocoa butter sticks, if you can stand the strong smell. Alternative treatments are olive oil, vitamin E cream, wheat germ and lanolin.
Exfoliating
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Exfoliating the skin is also thought to be a good way to remove stretch marks. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, so it goes to argue that regular exfoliation (within reason) will remove enough layers to minimize stretch marks and promote new, smooth skin growth. Some of the more popular methods of exfoliation are coffee beans ground into a powder and mixed into hand lotion, and homemade facial scrubs.
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Massage
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Massage is a good way to help eliminate stretch marks. Regular massaging will help to increase circulation, which promotes skin rejuvenation. Combined with the oils previously mentioned, a vigorous daily massage will improve the appearance of stretch marks and may also reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Derma Roller
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A derma roller is a rolling device with tiny needles in it. By rolling it on the skin, you prick tiny holes in the skin, which is said to stimulate collagen production. The roller can cost several hundred dollars, but it can be used at home and proponents say it works as well as expensive dermabrasion and chemical peels.
Tea Tree Oil
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Tea tree oil is a natural tree oil that is used as an antiviral and anti-inflammatory remedy. The oil's healing properties are believed to eliminate stretch marks and help other skin ailments.
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