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Davina Calloway/Demand Media

Many oils and creams claim to have the ability to reduce or completely get rid of stretch marks. Olive oil has many health benefits, as well as skin benefits. To get the best results, extra virgin olive oil is the best to use. This oil can help reduce stretch marks, but must be used regularly and over a long period.

The Benefits of Olive Oil

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Davina Calloway/Demand Media

Women and men have been using olive oil on their skin for hundreds of years. It is now a common ingredient in many high-end skincare and hair products. You may think that applying oil to your skin or hair will make you look and feel greasy. But this can be avoided by using a small amount and rubbing it in completely .

Olive oil contains 4 different types of antioxidants that help neutralize damaging elements that lead to skin cancer and aging. Linoleic acid in olive oil helps prevent water evaporation from the skin. Linoleic acid isn't naturally produced by the human body and needs to be applied topically or made a part of your diet to see all the benefits.

When to Use Olive Oil

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Davina Calloway/Demand Media

The best time to use olive oil is during the pregnancy or the growth period. The earlier you use olive oil on your belly, hips and other areas prone to stretch marks, the better. If you apply olive oil for up to 3 months after delivery, you will greatly reduce the chances of stretch mark appearance.

Applying olive oil to stretch marks after they have already appeared will also help, but they will never go completely away. Skin-care-at-home.com recommends using olive oil with liquid/cream vitamin E to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It should be used at least two times a day. To apply, use a small amount (about 1/2 tsp.) of olive oil on the area. After the oil is completely rubbed in, follow by applying a small amount of vitamin E liquid/cream. You won't see results right away, so you must keep using this serum for at least 3 to 4 weeks before you start noticing improvement.

Keep in mind that over time, stretch marks will naturally fade from their pink color to white and become less noticeable.