It’s no stretch to say that stretch marks aren’t a desirable trait for anyone’s body.  Stretch marks are lackluster lines on the skins surface, with a red or translucent hue, which can cover any part of the body.

While pregnancy is the main cause behind stretch marks, other reasons can be dramatic gain or loss in weight, rapid growth, heredity factors, stress and changes in physical conditions.

The skin consists of three main layers: the outer layer, Epidermis, the middle layer, Dermis, and the deepest layer, Subcutaneous or Hypodermic.  Stretch marks construct in the dermis layer of the skin when the connective tissue is “stretched” beyond its elasticity limit due to rapid extension or recession of the skin.

The collagen is weakened when the skin is stretched and its normal production cycle is interrupted and damaged.  The end result of this is fine scars under the top layer of the skin.  In the beginning, the marks look pink or red, but with time a thin, silvery line appears on the skin surface and a stretch mark takes on the appearance of a scar.

Stretch marks can cause victims to feel self-conscious and uncomfortable regarding their appearance.  Fortunately, there are several natural ways to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, although it is highly unlikely to completely rid yourself of them.

Castor Oil Treatment:

  1. Apply product over stretch marks and gently massage the area in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes
  2. Wrap the area with a thin cloth.  Using a heating pad, apply heat to the affected area for a minimum of a half an hour.
  3. Repeat this process daily for at least one month to notice positive results.


Aloe Vera Treatment:

  1. Directly rub aloe vera gel on the affected area, leave it on to dry.


Egg Whites Treatment:

  1. Whip the whites of two eggs gently with a fork.  Clean the affected skin area with water and then apply a thick layer of egg whites with a makeup brush.
  2. Allow the egg whites to dry completely and then rinse the area with cold water.
  3. Finally apply moisture or lotion to skin.
  4. Repeat the process daily for at least two weeks and watch for positive results.


Cocoa Butter Treatment:

  1. You must apply cocoa butter over the affected area at last two times a day for a few months.


Laser Treatment Studies have been conducted using Intense Pulsed Light (ILP) and Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) treatments emitting 585 nanometers (nm) of light to improve the appearance of stretch marks.  Many have reported success with this method, with positive results being seen after a minimum of five sessions.  This is a more expensive route but by far the fastest and most effective route to go.
Treatment:

To treat, contact a plastic surgeon to schedule a consultation, prices may vary.

While these are all beneficial treatments that can do no harm, it is almost impossible to completely get rid of stretch marks.  Best of luck readers, but remember to keep your expectations realistic; and remember that you’re beautiful with or without them.