How to Reduce Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are an inevitable result of pregnancy or rapid weight loss or weight gain for some men and women. Stretch marks are not something you suffer from physically, but many people who have them become self-conscious about their stretch marks. However, the following steps may help you reduce their appearance.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Brush your skin with a loofah or skin brush when you shower to stimulate circulation.
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Massage cocoa butter into the stretch marks.
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Use vitamin E oil on your stretch marks. Massage it into your skin after a shower.
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Talk to your doctor about using tretinoin cream on stretch marks. It is available by prescription only.
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Eat foods high in vitamins A, E and C (see Related eHows), or take supplements in addition to your diet. However, pregnant women should avoid taking more than 25,000 IU of vitamin A.
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Add foods or supplements to your diet that are high in zinc (see Related eHow), which is good for the skin, and silica (beets, brown rice, bell peppers, soybeans, leafy green vegetables and whole grains), which helps form collagen, the supporting fibers in the skin.
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Eat foods that contain essential fatty acids, which help make cell walls. Essential fatty acids can be found in many vegetables, vegetable oils and fish oils.
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Tips & Warnings
Lasers have shown some promise in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. They seem to work best on stretch marks that are still fairly new and are red or purple in color.
Check your local supermarket or drugstore for commercial creams such as Belly Butter, a moisturizing and replenishing maternity body cream.
Always consult your doctor or a medical professional before making changes to your diet.
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Comments
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I decided to test products on the newest stretch marks I had, which were also the worst ones I've ever had and was really looking forward to get rid of. They were bright red, quite long and deep. I've tried Avon stretch mark lotions, Mederma for stretch marks (which I hated and was over-priced), scar removal products, bio-oil, and plain cocoa butter lotions. None of those products worked, but Made from Earth's Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy seems to be doing well. I've used about 1/3 of the product (for almost 3 weeks now), trying to remember to use it twice a day but sometimes only once. The product itself has a light citrus fresh smell (which I'm thankful for, the Mederma one I used smelled strongly of hospital soap, ew.), it has a consistency of whipped butter, it's not oily. The reason I decided to review it is because I actually do notice a difference which obviously surprises me since I've tried SO many things. They're definitely not as bright red, more of a dull red. They're a lot softer and not as deep. Once I've finished with this container, I plan on getting another one. I really think the Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy was a worthwhile purchase. If you do decide to buy this, just remember to use it twice a day and stay patient. I really didn't notice a difference until almost 3 week's use, but the difference is obvious.
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I really need to investigate this smart lipo everyone of my friends have had it done and deny have stretch marks any more.
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starfire21
Dec 17, 2009
In 1999 I got a few stretch marks across my lower abdomen with my first child. In May 2009 I had the Smart Lipo procedure to get rid of stubborn fat on my tummy and waistline. I'm so glad I did it. Now I have my small waist and flat belly back. Woohoo! Also, my skin is tighter and firm now! Oh yeah, and for some reason my stretch marks are way less noticeable and have faded to my natural skin tone. Maybe it has something to do with collagen production which is promoted by Smart Lipo. I don't know. Though it was designed to remove unwanted fat, I feel it's possible that Smart Lipo may also help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Seriously! I can show my tummy again!!!!! :) -
ddpmpm
Nov 09, 2009
I began using the Dr Max Powers "Stretch Mark Treatment" every single day about two months ago and it works WONDERS. First you can use it for stretch marks and you can use it for scars and to moisturize your face and neck, ladies! You must follow the instructions even though they are pretty simple. If I am using this for acne scars, skin discolorations (sun exposure), uneven skin tone I apply either over makeup (may not be recommended as this could remove your makeup)and on a freshly washed face. I use the lengths of my fingers not fingertips since they produce the oils that could cause you breakouts from YES touching your face. I rub into the affected area or scar (even works on cystic acne scars) atleast two to three times a day when I am able to. But if not I do this at night before going to bed. Be patient and wait one to two weeks before you notice a big difference as the ...
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mila21
Jul 25, 2009
can these advices help against 'older' stretch marks too?
