Stretch marks are the abrupt scars or marks on the skin, ranging from red, white to off-white in color.
These stretch marks are often a result of stretching of skin associated with rapid weight changes.
These marks are caused tearing of the dermis layer of the skin, which with time and medication might get reduced or diminished, but does not completely eliminate.
The glucocorticoid hormone present in the body is responsible for the formation of stretch marks by preventing the fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers.
How Coconut Oil Benefits in Stretch Marks
Coconut oil contains vitamin E as anti-oxidants which help in reducing stretch marks.
The oil heals the stretch marks by restoring the elasticity of the skin.
Since coconut oil is absorbed more deeply and hence shows a more positive effect than other oils.
Coconut oil is the oil extracted from the kernel of matured coconuts of the coconut palms.
It has several applications in medicine, food and other industries. Coconut oil can be used as the skin moisturizer for dry skin.
Coconut oil is used as a remedy for stretch marks, especially in Indian homes.
Coconut oil is easily available in every household, as a moisturizer or as hair oil. It is one of the best inexpensive ways to diminish the stretch marks.
Coconut oil has a positive effect of being absorbed a bit deeper than any other oils, thus increasing chances of diminishing the stretch marks.
The oil also helps in powerful reduction in the sagging or loosening of the skin.
This oil is good for the complete health of the skin due to its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The coconut oil heals the stretch marks by restoring the elasticity of the skin.
Coconut oil is largely used because it has no side-effects and is not at all harmful to the affected area.
Coconut oil also has a plus point in the case that it consists of anti-oxidants that fight with the free radicals and nourish the skin and the affected area.
The saturated fats that are present in coconut oil make the cell walls strong. It is vitamin E present in coconut oil, which acts as anti-oxidant which reduces the appearance of stretch marks.
How to use Coconut oil for Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are generally a huge problem for pregnant women, so the expecting mother should rub the coconut oil on all the affected parts two to three times daily.
This practice is safe for both the mother and the baby and has no side effects.
Using it this way would help to clarify, heal and moisturize both the skin as well as the stretch marks and should be continued even after delivery, till the marks diminish.
For those who have stretch marks due to other reasons such as weight changes or maybe hormonal changes during puberty, should apply warm extra virgin coconut oil on the affected part before going to the bed every night.
The oil should be massaged well into the skin in a way so that it gets absorbed properly. The oil can then be rinsed with a little warm water or a mild soap the next morning.
This would also lead to adding the radiance and glow to the skin.
Precautions while using coconut oil for stretch marks
- For massage, use natural pure or virgin coconut oil and not the refined ones.
- Simple massage techniques should be used, do not use complicated techniques until you have complete knowledge about them.
- If you are planning to mix any other oil with coconut oil for massage, confirm it with your doctor first.They may sometimes lead to allergic reactions.
- During pregnancy, be cautious in massaging. Do not apply too much pressure on the belly, just softly massage till oil disappears.
Conclusion
Coconut oil contains vitamin E as anti-oxidants which help in reducing stretch marks.
The oil heals the stretch marks by restoring the elasticity of the skin. Since coconut oil is absorbed more deeply and hence shows a more positive effect than other oils.
Coconut oil when massaged on the affected area regularly could help diminish stretch marks every night before sleeping.