The skin is an astonishingly elastic organ but it can be overstretched at times. Over-stretching of the skin is as a result of pregnancy, growth spurts and weight gain, which all cause striae commonly known as stretch marks. Definitively, they are unsightly scars that appear on the thighs, buttocks, underarms and on the abdomen.
Why use Coconut Oil for Stretch Marks?
There are multiple reasons why coconut oil should be used to clear stretch marks. For instance, it is a moisturizing powerhouse, which is absorbed deeply and quickly into the skin. Coconut oil is very small at a molecular level, a reason why it goes deeper compared to the other oils. It is rich in antioxidant elements which fight the free radicals responsible for wrinkling of the skin and related ageing effects.
Coconut Oil for Stretch Marks during and after Pregnancy
Pregnancy may overstretch the skin, which means that stretch marks are bound to appear after delivery. This is why expectant women should prevent them before they appear. It is safe to both the mother and the infant because coconut oil contains a fatty acid known as lauric acid which is normally found in the mother’s milk.
When coconut oil is massaged on the skin, the lauric acid is absorbed and converted into an antibacterial and antiviral agent known as monolaurin, which aids the immune system in fighting harmful microbes.
Organic Coconut Oil vs. Petroleum and Invasive Treatments
Most of the over-the-counter remedies that are used to treat stretch marks actually contain one or more petroleum-based products. The other treatments such as laser, chemical peels and microdermabrasion are painful and more expensive. This is the reason why coconut oil should be given priority before the other treatments are considered.
How to use Coconut Oil
Pure organic coconut oil is very simple to use. A small quantity is massaged gently on the skin for several minutes before it is left to dry. It should be repeated at least four times a day, but this depends on the sensitivity of the skin. Raw coconut oil is the most ideal because it has no additives that may irritate the skin and prevent cell regeneration. To effectively prevent stretch marks on the entire body, coconut oil should be applied gently after a shower. It is best absorbed when the skin is slightly wet or damp, a reason why it should be kept near the shower for everyday application.
The effect of coconut oil can as well be strengthened through incorporating it into the diet. It takes control of the internal battle by aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption besides promoting weight loss. These are essential activities that can help alleviate stretch marks because as stated earlier, over-stretching of the skin caused by weigh loss can result into stretch marks.
In general organic coconut oil is natural; hence there is no threat of side effects. If it fails to work for some reason, which is very rare, at least it has no harmful effect on the skin. There are several other health benefits such as moisturizing the skin.