Essential oils are known for being the natural solution for reducing or preventing the occurrence of stretch marks. The best oils for stretch marks are bitter almond oil, argan oil, pomegranate oil, rosehip oil, olive oil, shea butter, neroli among others. Stretch marks are a typical problem, particularly amongst pregnant women and teenagers. They may be bothersome to most, but they do not trigger any medical conditions. Stretch marks usually fade on their own after a long time. However, people usually want them to go away much faster. We will tell you how to do just that using various essential oils.
What are stretch marks?
The scientific name is striae or striae gravidarum. They happen when the middle layer or dermis of the skin becomes overstretched to the point of tearing. These tears trigger scars that appear as stretch marks on the skin's surface.
When do stretch marks occur?
This kind of skin tearing often occurs:
- Throughout pregnancy, impacting as much as 90 percent of females after weight gain or loss
- Throughout the development spurts of adolescence
- High levels of steroid brought on by medications or diseases, such as Cushing's syndrome and Marfan syndrome, have actually likewise been connected to stretch marks.
Stretch marks look like red or purple lines that are slightly raised at first. They turn white or silver and end up being flat and glossy, over time. Ladies are more susceptible to stretch marks than guys.
Where do stretch marks occur?
Stretch marks generally develop on the following areas of the body:
- Butts
- Breasts
- Hips
- Thighs
- Stomach
- Upper arms
Will essential oils work for stretch marks?
What oils get rid of stretch marks?
Stretch marks generally fade by themselves gradually. Although there isn't a treatment that will eliminate stretch marks totally, there are things you can do help reduce their look and texture. Among the things that are on the top of the list to help you deal with this menace that is stretch marks is essential oils.
What is the best oil or cream for stretch marks?
How to remove stretch marks at home using essential oils?
Essential oils have established their usefulness when it comes to dealing with stretch marks. However, some essential oils are more likely to do the trick than others.
Essential oils that work wonders on stretch marks
Some essential oils have actually shown a guaranteed effect on stretch marks. When applied topically, essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil. So far research on the following oils are promising as it is proven that the following oils actually work
Bitter almond oil for stretch marks
Bitter almond oil does not come from the same tree as the more popular sweet almonds that we consume. Bitter almonds consist of toxic compounds that when ingested can imitate cyanide poisoning. It is yet to be determined the quantity of bitter almond oil may be taken in by your skin.
A study on the results of bitter almond oil on stretch marks had three groups of pregnant women- the first group only used the bitter almond, the second group were massaged with the oil for 15 minutes, and the last was in the control group.
The results were as follows; Only 20% of women who were massaged with bitter almond oil got stretch marks. The group using the bitter almond oil alone had 39% of their women with stretch marks while the last group was the worst as 41% of their women got stretch marks. Further studies have to be conducted to find out precisely how bitter almond oil and massage works and if it's safe.
Argan oil for stretch marks
Argan tree kernels produce argan oil. It is a relatively new remedy. Research suggests that this oil helps to increase the elasticity of the skin. Researchers believe it might help avoid or reduce stretch marks. A 2015 study discovered both consuming Argan oil and applying it topically made the skin more elastic in postmenopausal women.
Pomegranate oil and dragon's blood extract for stretch marks
Pomegranate oil is made from pomegranate seeds. Dragon's blood extract originates from the resin of dracaena trees, also known as Madagascar dragon trees. Both components are thought to be anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatories.
A research on stretch marks tested 10 women with stretch marks and 10 without. This research involved using a cream made from pomegranate oil and dragon's blood extract. The results suggested that the cream increased skin's density, elasticity, and hydration in all volunteers. Scientists hence say the cream might assist prevent or improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Rosehip oil for stretch marks
Rosehip oil is extracted from roses. Studies reveal that moisturizers with rosehip oil play a part in preventing the intensity of stretch marks in pregnant ladies with previous stretch marks. It was also substantially more reliable than the placebo in preventing new stretch marks.
Gotu Kola for stretch marks
Gotu kola is used in traditional Chinese medication and Ayurveda to deal with a large range of skin concerns. Research reveals that compounds in Gotu kola increase collagen production. This improves the strength of the skin tensile.
Back in 1991, a study took 100 pregnant women, 50 of them were offered a topical cream with Gotu kola while the other 50 were given a placebo cream. Of the 80 women who completed the research study, just 14 that used Gotu kola group stretch marks compared to the 22 ladies in the placebo group.
These oils might work for you: Other studies involve some essential oils were inconclusive. Further studies are required to prove whether they totally work or not. However, they do deserve a try as they work for you.
Shea butter for stretch marks
The nuts of the shea tree produce shea butter. It's not an essential oil, however a carrier oil. It can either be diluted with essential oils or used without any dilution. Shea butter is typically used to hydrate the skin. Numerous women claim it helps avoid stretch marks, but the majority of the research is inconclusive. Shea butter consists of vitamin A. It's stated to help improve blood flow to the skin and promote injury recovery. Even so, more research is needed to show its impact on stretch marks.
Olive oil for stretch marks
Olive oil is a carrier oil that can be used to dilute essential oils. This can also be used on its own. Olive oil is widely used as a skin care solution because of its antioxidant and hydration abilities. However, according to a study on women in their second trimester of pregnancy, using olive oil to the abdominal area twice daily does not avoid stretch marks.
Neroli for stretch marks
Nerol is made from bitter orange tree blossoms. It's used as a folk treatment to lighten skin and improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. According to 2008 research, neroli oil has effective antioxidant capabilities which might help skin cells regrow and enhance skin's appearance.
How to use essential oils for stretch marks?
Essential oils should first be diluted in carrier oils and after that used topically to stretch marks and massaged into the skin. Essential oils need to be blended with a carrier oil to avoid burning and irritation. This is essential for individuals with sensitive skin. Popular carrier oils consist of:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Rosehip oil
- Jojoba oil
Mix 1 ounce of carrier oil with 15 to 30 drops of essential oil. Start with fewer drops and develop, as skin the skin becomes more tolerant. A spot test must constantly be carried out before using essential oils. The essential oil should be safe for you if there is zero reaction after 24 hours.
Are essential oils safe to use throughout pregnancy?
It's only logical that if you're trying to avoid stretch marks you 'd use essential oils while pregnant. However, the research on the safety of topical essential oils during pregnancy or breastfeeding is very limited and without conclusive results. It's uncertain just how much essential oil is taken in by the skin and how it might affect your child. Until more research study is done, pregnant or breastfeeding women shouldn't use essential oils. However, if you are under the strict supervision of a qualified doctor, then they can approve the use.
Possible side effects and risks of using essential oils for stretch marks
The most common side effect of utilizing topical essential oils is an allergy. Allergy symptoms might include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Rash
- Hives
To reduce your risk of adverse effects, you should just use top quality essential oils. It is also very important to always use carrier oils to dilute essential oils. Citrus oils such as lemon oil may make you more sensitive to the sun and trigger rash or sunburn. You must stay away from direct sunshine for at least 24 hours after using citrus oils.
Very little research on the safety of topical use of bitter almond oil has been carried out so far, so talk to your physician before using. Do not mix essential oils with topical medications unless under the supervision of a medical professional.
Other home remedies to get rid of stretch marks
Natural remedies for stretch marks
Aloe Vera for stretch marks
Aloe vera is a plant that restores the skin tissue and has amazing recovery properties. Slice off a fresh leaf form the aloe plant and extract the gel. Massage this gel onto the area with stretch and give it about 30 minutes and then wash it off. Do this every day.
Cucumber and Lemon Juice for stretch marks
Lemon juice's natural level of acidity recovers and decreases scars and cucumber juice provides the cool and calming effect which leaves your skin fresh. Mix the cucumber juice and lemon juice in equal parts, and apply the mixture on the affected areas. Give it about 10 minutes for the skin to absorb after which you can use warm water to wash it off.
Almond and Coconut Oil for stretch marks
Use coconut oil and almond oil in equal parts to fight stretch marks. Use this mixer regularly on your skin. Coconut and almond oil are completely natural, which means no side-effects. Follow this treatment religiously to get desirable results.
Cocoa Butter for stretch marks
Cocoa butter, when used during and after pregnancy, can completely get rid off stretch marks. At night before bed is the best time to use it. Simply massage it properly on the affected part of the skin. With time, you will find the stretch marks reducing and fading away.
Apricot Mask and Oil for stretch marks
Apricots are famous for exfoliating properties, which make them extremely useful when it comes to getting rid of stretch marks. Remove the seeds of about three apricots and squash the fruit into a paste. Use this paste as a mask on the stretch marks. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then clean it off using warm water. Do this daily for one month to see the desirable outcomes. Pure apricot oil has skin revitalizing properties and for that reason reduces stretch marks. When messing on your skin, you can also use some lemon juice for better results.
Castor Oil for stretch marks
Because of their dried, shriveled up appearance, stretch marks require moisture and nourishment. Castor oil will help the skin heal and will smoothen the marks gradually. But this is something that you need to constantly feed the skin with.
Medical treatments for stretch marks
People with serious stretch marks or who dislike essential oils may want to try other treatments, including:
- Retinoid cream
- Laser therapies
- Microdermabrasion
Conclusion on using essential oils for stretch marks
Although stretch marks can't be gotten rid of completely, research has shown some essential oils might help in reducing their appearance and keep the surrounding skin healthy.
The severity of stretch marks is mainly based on genetics, hormone levels, and the degree of tension to your skin. The best remedy to avoid stretch marks is to eat healthily and exercise routine to preserve a healthy weight. This will also help maintain a perfect hormonal balance. Then consider essential oils as a complementary therapy to your healthy way of life to nourish your skin.
