Growth spurts, pregnancy, and weight gain can all lead to a type of scar called a stretch mark.
Do Stretch Marks Go Away?
While stretch marks, like all scars, are permanent, they tend to fade and become less prominent over time.
Some natural ingredients may help to reduce their appearance and support skin health.
Natural Treatments for Stretch Marks
-
Vitamin K
This fat-soluble vitamin found in most leafy garden greens.
Vitamin K is recommended to help relieve irritations of the skin, and increase the rate of healing in cases of:
- stretch marks
- scarring
- acne
- bruising
- swelling
-
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil, also known as rosehip seed oil, is lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin.
Rosehip oil comes as straight oil, or it can be combined with other ingredients in creams or powders. Applying the oil to the skin can help reduce scar tissue due to its essential fatty acid and antioxidant content.
It is also known for its ability to brighten, firm, and tighten skin.
Caution
Rosehips are not recommended for:
- pregnant and breastfeeding women
- those who are diabetic or tend to get kidney stones
- those with:
- bleeding conditions
- sickle cell disease
- an iron-related disorder
- anemia
-
Shea Butter & Shea Oil
Shea is a seed fat high in oleic acid—a saturated fatty acid that is particularly compatible with the oils that occur naturally on our skin.
It absorbs quickly and makes a highly effective moisturizer that can also reduce swelling. For this reason, it has been used to treat a host of skin ailments, including:
You can apply pure, unrefined shea butter directly to your skin, or look for it as an ingredient in personal care products including body bars, lotions, and moisturizers.
-
Other Ingredients
Other ingredients that may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks include:
- cocoa butter
- vitamin E
- hyaluronic acid
