An Affordable Way to Get Rid of Stretch Marks!
It's not going to be a quick fix, please be patient unless you think you'd rather get a job and come up with the money for the expensive stuff. This will help naturally, which is what counts to me.
- Use Retin-A
I know, I said we couldn't afford it. That said, there are a couple of other forms. Use Vitamin A, remember to reduce your exposure to the sun after applying Vitamin A, it's more susceptible to skin damage. Retinoids and retinol are less potent and less harsh and can be found anywhere. With that in mind, they require more upkeep to keep seeing and producing results. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids (AHA/BHA) , Glycolic, Lactic and Citrus Acids are all better options for less drying results. It's best to use these and find them in a scrub. Leave the scrub on a little longer after you have massaged your entire body or just the stretch mark zones. This will not only provide you with the active ingredients, it will also increase cell turnover, remove dead skin cells, and prepare your skin to reap the optimum benefits of each product. CQ-10 is also good and is found in a lot of firming creams.
- Take a Warm Bath
Warm water improves circulation. Don't forget to scrub those target zones! You can also do dry brushing or use a special scrubbing tool to improve circulation. The better the circulation the better chance you have at preventing future stretch marks because your skin is now more elastic. This will also help in the aid of cellulite.
- Drink Water
Not only is this essential to every diet, but it does wonders for every part of your life. For your skin it keeps it soft, hydrated and elastic. Staying properly hydrated ensures that your collagen production is at normal levels. Think of it as the world's most inexpensive 'internal' moisturizer. Reach for water before energy drinks it will keep you awake I promise. Also, the more you drink the more you'll have the since of urgency to pee. Also room temperature or warm water with lemon juice or a slice of lemon in the morning will jump start your metabolism for the day. I'm not sure how controversial the whole 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water a day is. In my opinion if you're aiming to cut out soda (which you really should) and any other "unhealthy" flavored beverages than you should drink your glasses of water. Of course if you should mix in other items like, coconut water or tea than those should account as part of your daily H20 intake. Of course, please abide by your body and own dietary needs.
- Have Coffee!
Coffee grounds contain caffeine obviously, but it refreshes the skin and temporarily reduces the appearance of stretch marks. Use 3 cups of freshly ground coffee mixed with 3 tablespoons of olive oil until a smooth mixture formed. Apply in circular motions to your stretch marks for several minutes. Wrap with a towel for 10-15 minutes than rinse. If you can try to rinse with cold water as it will tighten your skin temporarily, you can use this technique all over your body. When you apply cold water on your face it reduces the appearance of pore size (forget Pore Perfectors). Did you know? Fat Girl Slim also has caffeine and another ingredient CQ 10 (look at all the savings!)
- Vitamin E
Rub Vitamin E vigorously for 5 minutes or until effectively absorbed to the skin. Buy Vitamin E (liquid) capsules in bulk and pierce the ends with a needle to use the contents (about 4-5 capsules per application). Or you can just purchase Vitamin E at a natural foods/cosmetic store (The Body Shop). Did you know? Vitamin E contains Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which helps reduce those pesky stretch marks by removing dead skin cells and allowing room for new healthier skin without stretch marks to grow. Please allow several months to start to see results and watch them disappear.
- You know this one...Exercise!
For serious. Stretch marks look worse on flabby skin than on toned, firm tanned skin (self-tanned). Just think of it this way only 2 1/2 hours of moderate aerobic activity a week! And only 1 hour and 15 minutes a week! Try picking low impact workouts such as pilates, yoga, ballet, and try walking (it's the best form). Try doing fun short toning workouts everyday. Use Google to find quick workouts. It's more effective and motivating to break down your workouts to 3- 10 minute sessions (for maintenance) or 4- 10 minute sessions (for weight loss)...This is proven to be the most effective. About self-tanning, I'm all about Mother Earth providing you with everything you'll ever need, but if your not using sunscreen while tanning than this may pose a serious sun damaging skin problem. Besides using self-tanner is quick and effective, but I'm sure there is a way to contour your body and camouflage those stretch marks to have you looking great in minutes!
Last, but not Least. If your really serious about your appearance consult a dermatologist to see what new or existing prescriptions there are for a more effective way to get rid of stretch marks. Or consult a plastic surgeon as there are laser and surgery to complete your journey to your own happiness.
