How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks:16 Natural Remedies

Stretch marks are also known as striae. It often occurs when the skin is quickly stretched and exceeds the strength of its flexibility. The marks are usually long and narrow lines with an off-color hue. You may also notice white, blue, red, pink, or purple streaks on your skin.

Stretch marks often occur during pregnancy or periods of rapid growth and drastic weight changes. Although pregnancy is the main reason for stretch marks, other causes, such as weight gain, bodybuilding, and adolescence, can also cause stretch marks.

While stretch marks are not harmful to health, many seek ways to diminish their appearance for cosmetic reasons. The good news is that with the right natural remedies and consistent application, you can significantly reduce the visibility of these stubborn streaks. This article provides 16 natural remedies to remove stretch marks permanently at Home.

How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks:16 Natural Remedies

1. Aloe Vera: Nature’s Skin Soother

Aloe vera isn’t just for soothing sunburns after a day at the beach. This succulent superstar has been used for centuries to heal and nourish skin. Its gel is a treasure trove of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that can help improve skin elasticity and potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

How to use:

• If you have an aloe vera plant at home, cut open a fresh leaf
• Scoop out the clear, jelly-like gel
• Apply it directly to your stretch marks
• Gently massage it using circular motions
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
• Rinse off with lukewarm water

For best results, try to do this daily, preferably after your shower when your skin is still slightly damp. This can help the aloe vera absorb better into your skin.

Pro tip: If you don’t have access to a fresh aloe vera plant, look for a high-quality, pure aloe vera gel at your local health food store. Just be sure to check the ingredients list – you want one that’s as close to 100% aloe vera as possible, without added fragrances, colors, or unnecessary preservatives.

2. Coconut Oil: A Moisturizing Marvel

Coconut oil isn’t just for whipping up delicious Thai curries or adding a tropical twist to your morning smoothie. This versatile oil is a true skin savior, rich in medium-chain fatty acids and powerful antioxidants that can help improve skin elasticity and promote healing.

In addition, It’s also deeply moisturizing, which can help keep your skin supple and potentially less prone to stretch marks.

How to use:

• Scoop out about a tablespoon of virgin coconut oil (it should be solid at room temperature)
• Warm it between your palms until it melts into a liquid
• Gently massage it into your stretch marks using circular motions
• For an extra boost, leave it on overnight to deeply moisturize your skin while you sleep

3. Sugar Scrub: Exfoliate and Renew

Sometimes, the most effective skincare solutions are hiding right in your kitchen pantry! Sugar’s fine crystals make it an excellent natural exfoliant. Gently removing dead skin cells, can help promote circulation and potentially encourage new cell growth. This might help improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.

How to use:

• In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of sugar (white or brown) with 1/4 cup of a nourishing oil like coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil
• If you want to get fancy, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a natural fragrance (lavender or vanilla work great!)
• Gently scrub the affected areas in circular motions for about 5 minutes
• Pay extra attention to areas with stretch marks, but be gentle – we want to exfoliate, not irritate
• Rinse off with warm water
• Follow up with your favorite moisturizer

Use this scrub 2-3 times a week for best results. Just remember not to scrub too hard – your skin deserves gentle care!

Pro tip: This sugar scrub isn’t just great for stretch marks – it’s amazing for your whole body! It leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth. Plus, it’s so easy and inexpensive to make that you might find yourself whipping up extra batches to give as gifts to friends and family.

4. Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration Boost

Don’t let the word “acid” intimidate you – hyaluronic acid is a hydration superhero that occurs naturally in our bodies. This powerful moisturizer can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. This makes it an incredible ally in the quest for supple, hydrated skin.

By keeping your skin well-hydrated, you may be able to improve its elasticity and potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

How to use:

• Look for a serum or cream that contains hyaluronic acid (it’s become quite popular in skincare, so you should have plenty of options)
• After cleansing your face, apply a small amount to your stretch marks
• Gently pat it in until it’s fully absorbed – no need to rub vigorously
• Follow up with your regular moisturizer to seal in the hydration
• Use daily, preferably both morning and night

Pro tip: For an extra hydration boost, look for a hyaluronic acid serum that also contains vitamin B5 (also known as panthenol). These two ingredients work synergistically to attract and hold moisture in the skin.

5. Centella Asiatica: Ancient Healing Herb

Centella Asiatica is also known as Gotu Kola or “the herb of longevity” in Chinese medicine. It has been used for centuries to heal wounds and improve skin health. This little green herb is believed to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity, which could potentially help with stretch marks.

How to use:

• Look for creams or lotions that contain Centella Asiatica (it might be listed as Gotu Kola or by its scientific name, Centella Asiatica)
• Apply to your stretch marks twice daily
• Gently massage it using circular motions
• Be patient – herbal remedies often take time to show results

6. Vitamin E Oil: Antioxidant Power

Vitamin E is like a superhero for your skin. This potent antioxidant can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals and may aid in the healing process. While research on its direct effect on stretch marks is limited, many people swear by it for improving overall skin health and appearance.

How to use:

• You can find vitamin E oil at most health food stores, or you can break open vitamin E capsules
• Apply the oil directly to your stretch marks
• Gently massage it using circular motions
• For best results, leave it on overnight to allow maximum absorption

Pro tip: Vitamin E oil can be quite thick and sticky. If you find it uncomfortable, try mixing it with a lighter oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil. This can make it easier to apply and can also provide additional skin-nourishing benefits.

7. Argan Oil: Moroccan Miracle

Often called “liquid gold,” argan oil has been used by Moroccan women for centuries to nourish their skin and hair. It’s rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which can help improve skin elasticity and hydration. This makes it a potential ally in the fight against stretch marks.

How to use:

• Invest in a bottle of pure, cold-pressed argan oil (a little goes a long way, so it should last you a while)
• Warm a few drops between your palms
• Massage it gently into your stretch marks using circular motions
• Use daily, preferably after showering when your skin is still slightly damp to lock in extra moisture

Pro tip: Argan oil is also fantastic for your hair! Try massaging a few drops into your scalp and the ends of your hair for added shine and moisture. It can help tame frizz and add a beautiful, healthy sheen to your locks.

8. Lemon Juice: Natural Lightener

Lemons aren’t just for making refreshing lemonade or adding zest to your favorite dishes. The citric acid in lemon juice may help lighten the appearance of stretch marks over time. It’s like nature’s gentle bleach, helping to gradually fade discoloration.

How to use:

• Cut a fresh lemon in half
• Gently rub the cut side directly on your stretch marks
• Leave the juice on for about 10-15 minutes
• Rinse off with warm water
• Follow up with a moisturizer, as lemon juice can be drying

Important note: Lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to use sunscreen if you’re heading outdoors. Also, if you have sensitive skin, you might want to dilute the lemon juice with water or try a patch test first.

9. Rosehip Oil: Skin Regeneration Booster

Rosehip oil is like a multivitamin for your skin. It’s packed with vitamins A and C, as well as essential fatty acids, which can help promote skin cell turnover and boost collagen production. This could potentially help improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.

How to use:

• Look for pure, cold-pressed rosehip oil (the color should be a deep golden or reddish-orange)
• Apply a few drops directly to your stretch marks
• Gently massage it using circular motions
• Use twice daily for best results, ideally in the morning and evening

10. Egg Whites: Protein-Rich Treatment

Who knew that the humble egg could be a skincare superhero? Egg whites are packed with proteins and amino acids that may help improve skin elasticity. While there’s no scientific evidence specifically linking egg whites to stretch mark reduction, many people swear by this home remedy.

How to use:

• Separate the whites from 2-3 eggs (save the yolks for a delicious omelet!)
• Whip the whites until they’re frothy
• Apply the frothy egg whites to your stretch marks using a makeup brush or your fingers
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, or until the mask feels tight
• Rinse off with cool water
• Follow up with your favorite moisturizer

Pro tip: This egg-white mask can feel a bit tight as it dries. That’s normal! Just try to relax and maybe catch up on your favorite TV show while you wait. You could even make it a part of a home spa day – put on some relaxing music, light a scented candle, and pamper yourself!

11. Cocoa Butter: Rich Moisturizer

Cocoa butter isn’t just for making delicious chocolate – it’s also a fantastic moisturizer for your skin. While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for stretch marks is limited, many people (especially pregnant women) swear by it for preventing and reducing stretch marks.

How to use:

• Look for pure, unrefined cocoa butter (it should have a lovely chocolate scent)
• Take a small amount and warm it between your palms until it melts
• Massage it gently into your stretch marks using circular motions
• Apply twice daily, especially during pregnancy or periods of weight change
• For extra nourishment, apply it after a warm shower when your pores are open

12. Olive Oil: Mediterranean Skin Secret

Olive oil isn’t just for drizzling over your favorite salad or using it to sauté veggies – it’s also great for your skin! Rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, olive oil can help nourish and moisturize your skin, potentially helping with stretch marks.

How to use:

• Choose extra virgin olive oil for the most skin-loving benefits
• Warm a small amount between your palms
• Massage it gently into your stretch marks using circular motions
• You can either leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing or leave it on overnight for deep moisturization
• If you’re leaving it on overnight, consider putting a towel on your bed to protect your sheets

Personal tip: If you find the smell of olive oil too strong, try mixing in a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender or chamomile can add a soothing scent that’s perfect for a relaxing bedtime routine.

13. Almond Oil: Vitamin-Rich Skin Food

Sweet almond oil is like a buffet of vitamins for your skin. It’s packed with vitamins E and K, which can help improve skin health and potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Plus, it absorbs easily into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.

How to use:

• Look for cold-pressed, unrefined sweet almond oil
• Apply a small amount directly to your stretch marks
• Massage it gently using circular motions
• Use daily, preferably after showering when your skin is still slightly damp

Pro tip: Almond oil is also great for your hair and nails. Try massaging a few drops into your cuticles or the ends of your hair for extra nourishment. It can help prevent split ends and add a beautiful shine to your locks.

14. Shea Butter: African Skin Savior

Shea butter has been used in Africa for centuries as a natural skin moisturizer. It’s rich in vitamins A, E, and F, as well as fatty acids that can help nourish and moisturize your skin. This rich butter might help improve skin elasticity and potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

How to use:

• Look for raw, unrefined shea butter for maximum benefits
• Take a small amount and warm it between your palms until it melts
• Apply to your stretch marks, massaging gently
• For best results, use twice daily – once in the morning and once before bed

15. Tretinoin: Vitamin A Derivative

While not strictly natural, tretinoin is derived from vitamin A. It has shown promise in reducing the appearance of stretch marks, especially when they’re still new and red or purple. It works by promoting cell turnover and collagen production.

How to use:

• Tretinoin is available by prescription, so you’ll need to consult with a dermatologist
• Apply a small amount of tretinoin cream to your stretch marks as directed
• Use only as prescribed by your healthcare professional
• Be patient – it can take several months to see results

Important note: Tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to use sunscreen if you’re using this treatment. Also, it’s not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so always check with your doctor first.

16. Hydration and Nutrition: From the Inside Out

Sometimes, the best remedies come from within. While not a topical treatment, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and protein can help support overall skin health. This, in turn, might help your skin be more resilient and potentially less prone to stretch marks.

How to implement:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day (aim for 8 glasses)
• Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables
• Include lean proteins and healthy fats in your diet
• Consider a multivitamin if recommended by your healthcare provider

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can stretch marks go away completely?

While stretch marks can fade over time, it’s rare for them to disappear completely. Most treatments and remedies aim to reduce their appearance rather than eliminate them. With consistent care and patience, you can often make stretch marks less noticeable, but some traces may remain.

2. Are stretch marks permanent?

Stretch marks are generally considered permanent, but their appearance can change over time. New stretch marks often appear red or purple and may feel slightly raised. As they age, they typically fade to a silvery or white color and become less noticeable.

3. Do stretch marks mean I’m fat?

Not at all! Stretch marks can occur in people of all body types and sizes. They’re simply a result of the skin stretching rapidly, which can happen during growth spurts, pregnancy, or yes, weight gain. But they can also occur in very fit individuals, like bodybuilders or athletes who gain muscle quickly.

4. Can men get stretch marks too?

Absolutely! While stretch marks are often associated with pregnancy, men can and do get stretch marks. They’re common during puberty when boys may experience growth spurts, or in men who gain muscle mass quickly through bodybuilding.

5. Are stretch marks hereditary?

There does seem to be a genetic component to stretch marks. If your parents or siblings have stretch marks, you may be more likely to develop them too. However, genetics isn’t the only factor – lifestyle, diet, and skincare habits also play a role.

6. Can tanning hide stretch marks?

Tanning doesn’t hide stretch marks. In fact, it may make them more noticeable. Stretch marks don’t tan the same way as the rest of your skin, so they might stand out more after sun exposure. Plus, excessive sun exposure can damage your skin and potentially worsen the appearance of stretch marks.

7. Do stretch marks itch?

Yes, new stretch marks can sometimes be itchy. This is because as the skin stretches, it can become dry and irritated. Keeping the skin well-moisturized can help alleviate this itching.

8. Can pregnancy stretch marks appear after delivery?

While most pregnancy-related stretch marks appear during pregnancy, it’s possible for new ones to show up in the weeks following delivery. This is because your body is still undergoing changes and your skin is adjusting to its new shape.

9. Are expensive stretch mark creams more effective than natural remedies?

Not necessarily. While some specialized creams may contain active ingredients that can help improve the appearance of stretch marks, many natural remedies can be just as effective.

The key is consistency in application and patience, regardless of whether you’re using a store-bought product or a natural remedy.

10. Can losing weight get rid of stretch marks?

Unfortunately, losing weight doesn’t typically get rid of stretch marks. Stretch marks occur in the middle layer of the skin (dermis), while weight loss affects the fat layer underneath the skin. However, maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent new stretch marks from forming.

Final words

Remember, everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re concerned about your stretch marks or if home remedies aren’t giving you the results you want, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest additional treatments if necessary.