Stretch marks and herbal remedies to reduce them

Stretch marks can be defined as fine white to silvery lines on the skin that may develop 

• During pregnancy since the abdomen enlarges 
• During sudden gains in weight and/or remain after weight loss.
• Due to rapid growth during puberty 

Stretch marks are visible mainly on the abdominal wall but can also occur on the thighs, upper arms, buttocks and breasts. In case of females, most common cause of stretch marks is pregnancy. There are few herbal remedies to reduce the appearance of stretch marks as mentioned below -

• Potato juice contains vitamins and minerals that foster growth and restoration of skin cells. Rub stretch marks with a piece of potato and allow the potato juice to cover the affected area. Then, wash away with lukewarm water.
• Apply aloe vera gel directly over the affected area. Leave it for few minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Keep your body well hydrated. It results in detoxification of skin pores and restores elasticity too.
• Apply lemon juice directly over the skin. It is acidic in nature and helps to heal or reduce stretch marks.
• Olive oil contains various essential vitamins and minerals. Massaging the affected area with warm olive oil gives good results.
• Castor oil which is used in many skin ailments is also beneficial in getting rid of stretch marks. Apply castor oil to stretch marks and gently massage in a circular motion for at least 15 minutes.
• Consume more vitamin C in your diet.
• Regularly moisturize the areas over skin prone to the development of stretch marks is very good to keep stretch marks at bay.
• Natural scrub prepared with the help of oats also serves to reduce stretch marks.
• Physical exercises focusing on abdomen, tone up the muscles thereby contributing indirectly to reduce stretch marks because excess gain or loss of weight contributes to the formation of stretch marks.
• Even yoga focusing on exercise and relaxation, helps to remove stretch marks.
• If you want to overcome the itching, take a warm shower followed by gentle oil massage.