Stretch marks are indented streaks which are red, pink or purple in color and appear on the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, upper arms and breasts. They are caused due to stretched skin and an increase in the hormone cortisone which the adrenal glands produce. Cortisone makes the elastic skin fibers lose their strength.
The appearance of stretch marks varies depends on the type of skin, where they occur and how long they have been there. They are a common occurrence on the abdomen of pregnant women during the latter months. Overtime, they slowly turn to gray or white and fade away partially.
Apart from pregnancy, overweight people, uses of corticosteroid medications and some diseases can cause stretch marks. However, stretch marks are harmless and do not need to be treated unless for cosmetic purposes. There are different treatments available to improve the appearance of stretch marks like OTC creams, herbal remedies, laser therapy and microdermabrasion.
Tumeric is one of the cost-effective options to treat stretch marks. Here’s how:
1. Turmeric for pregnancy stretch marks
Stretch marks occur during and after pregnancy. You can correct this by losing weight and use some creams to reduce the appearance of these marks. Also, you can use turmeric because of its many medicinal use to treat stretch marks. Simply crush dried turmeric root into chunks, mix with water and apply the paste on stretch marks several times till the marks disappear.
2. Turmeric and Lemon juice
Turmeric mixed with lemon or cucumber juice is very good for any pigmentation. Just apply on the affected areas and leave for 15 minutes before washing off. With regular use, the skin will regain its true color.
3. Turmeric and coconut oil
Turmeric powder combined with coconut oil is also a good remedy for pregnancy stretch marks. Apply this, leave it on for a few minutes and rinse completely. Stretch marks can be prevented by healthy weight at all times and regular exercise. You can also improve your skin’s elasticity by regularly rubbing creams made with natural extracts like apricot, lemon, and turmeric.