January 31, 2019 Organic

HOW TO TREAT PREGNANCY SCARS THE NATURAL WAY

Pregnancy is a beautiful natural phenomenon that gives way to new life, which is as wondrous as the arrival of spring after a deep winter slumber. Pregnancy-induced stretch marks are a reality almost all women have to contend with, as it is caused by the stretching of skin due to gradual or rapid bodily transformations. Stretch marks, also known as striae distensae, are a result of torn or stretched skin tissues which leave a visible, lightning-like mark on the skin. While stretch marks pose no health risks and do not mar a woman’s beauty, they can be reduced if one prefers a blemish-free skin. It is also important to note that stretch marks are not exclusive to women or pregnancy, as they can occur due to rapid weight loss/gain and growth spurts during adolescence.

Causes Of Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Pregnancy-induced stretch marks are likely to occur in the sixth or seventh month when the growth of the baby is sudden and incessant. They might appear on the stomach, thighs, hips, and chest area. As weight gain is absolutely normal during pregnancy, fluctuations in body size inevitably lead to stretch marks. If you had stretch marks as a teen, or someone in your immediate family had them, you are more likely to develop the same due to genetic reasons.

Healing Stretch Marks The Natural Way

While stretch marks eventually fade with time, they never disappear. However, if you adopt natural ways to heal stretch marks, they will merge into the natural tone of your skin and vanish after a few months. Here are some tips to heal stretch marks in safe, effective and natural ways:

1. Massage With Oil

Frequent, gentle massages with natural oils such as olive oil, castor oil, almond oil and coconut oil can reduce stretch marks to a significant extent. These natural oils moisturize and exfoliate the skin while improving blood circulation and breaking up the scar tissues. You can take 1-2 tablespoons of your preferred natural oil and massage the affected areas in gentle, circular strokes. Allow the oil to seep into the layers of your skin for 30 minutes. Wash off, or take a shower. While natural oils are effective, you have to be patient as it is a time-taking process. You can expedite the healing process by using an organic stretch marks oil that is made with natural oils, along with ingredients that have recuperative properties, such as Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica), Manjistha, Green Tea, etc.

2. Stay Hydrated

It is important to drink ample water, especially during and post pregnancy. Pregnant women need to to stay hydrated, especially during their third trimester, as dehydration can cause contractions, which can trigger preterm labor. While it is difficult to gulp down 6-8 glasses of water on a daily basis, especially when one is feeling bloated and nauseous, it is necessary for the overall well being of the mother and her child. Also, when your skin cells are nourished, they are able to repair faster and function the way they are supposed to. Hence, when you drink enough fluids, your skin is able to recover from pregnancy-induced stretch marks.

3. Keep Skin Moisturized

Moisturization is a vital component of an effective skin care routine, as it keeps skin soft and supple while maintaining radiance and vitality. Organic moisturizers made with natural components, such as Aloe Vera, Sunflower Oil, Mulethi, Manjistha and Kesar help protect skin from dehydrating elements and preserve skin elasticity. Moisturization can also add agency to the stretch mark healing process, and alleviate itchiness, roughness and dullness.

4. Do Toning Exercises

Exercise is a wonderfully effective way to heal stretch marks after pregnancy. If you are unable or unwilling to move about a lot, you can indulge in some light exercise, such as walking and simple yoga postures. Exercise helps strengthen muscles in areas wherein stretch marks are most likely to occur. When your muscles start getting toned, loose skin becomes tighter, which promotes faster healing. If your health permits, you can indulge in high-intensity exercises, such as running, swimming, weight training, and pilates. You can start with exercising one day per week and move up to 3-4 days/week, depending on your fitness level and everyday schedule.

5. Eat Well

Needless to say, you are what you eat. Following a nutritious, balanced diet will help you stay in shape, keep your mind focused, and achieve radiant, blemish-free skin. Load up on fruits and vegetables, while avoiding junk, fried, and processed foods. While lean meat is beneficial in moderation, steer clear of fatty red meats. It is also best to keep an eye on your sodium and sugar intake while cutting off carbonated beverages. Eating healthy is not only instrumental in helping stretch marks fade but also vital during the breastfeeding process.

In conclusion, one has to keep in mind that treating stretch marks is not a miracle that will take place overnight. All good things take time, and if you follow these natural ways to alleviate your battle scars, you most surely will. Let beauty shine from within!