The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Castor Oil
Posted by Kbear (Langdon, Alberta) on 02/14/2012
★★★★★
I have had stretch marks since my pregnancy 13 years ago. I have tried many things and they have not faded even one little bit. The are very deep and dark and purple in color. I stumbled on a remedy for them when I used a castor oil pack to help with a kidney infection. I had the piece of wool saturated in castor oil and applied it to the right side of my abdomen and around my side then I wrapped it in plastic wrap and applied a heating pad to it for about an hour. When I removed it I noticed that the stretch marks on that side were signifigantly lighter in color than the other side of my abdomen. They were a light pink color. I was amazed so I started researching castor oil and there is a lot of info about it on the internet for use in skin care. I started applying a castor oil pack daily with heat for about an hour every day. Within a week the stretch marks were reduced to a very very slight pink color and the wrinkled saggy skin on my abdomen seemed to tighten up a bit as well. It was kind of an inconvenience having to go through all the steps of using a castor oil pack and heating pad for an hour every day so I started just applying a thick layer of castor oil after my morning shower, wrapping that in plastic wrap and putting my clothes on over it and leaving it there as long as possible. This is not noticable under my clothes so I can even go out and run errands and work with this is place, although it took some time to get used to the feeling of it. I have been doing this for a total of 2 weeks and the improvements I have seen are as follows: The marks around my sides, hips and lower back have all faded to white but I have not yet noticed a signifigant reduction in the size. The marks closer to my belly button (about 2 inches surrounding my belly button on either side) are still pink in color but about a 50% improvement in the color since I started. The marks below my belly button have improved in color by about 70%. The wrinkled sagging skin on my lower abdomen has improved by about 50% as well and is signifigantly smoother and tighter. This is truly a miracle as I thought I would have them forever. At this rate I will be proud in a bikini this summer!
On other areas of my body I have been rubbing a mix of 50/50 castor oil with jojoba oil into the stretch marks after my shower and they seem to be fading a bit but these are areas that would not do well wrapped in plactic such as my inner thighs, back of my arms (armpit crease area) and chest.
Other noted improvements I have had using castor oil is as a face wash. I have heard about the oil cleansing method and had tried it with great results but if you follow the directions on some websites it takes forever to do it so instead I just rub the castor oil into my face before I get in the shower, massage for a minute or two and then leave it on while I wash myself in the shower. The last thing I do in the shower is rub my face with a face cloth while letting the water run over it. It is a lot easier than the oil cleansing method found on other websites. The skin on my face has never been so beautiful I've always had problem skin and had moderate acne since I was 12 years old. My face was covered in pimples, blackheads, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, small red veins, overall redness and enlarged pores. Since using the castor oil to wash my face, my pores have reduced almost completely (probably 95%), my blackheads are completely gone, the broken capillaries (or small veins) are reduced by 95% (i only have one tiny visible vein left) and my acne has completely cleared up 100%.
Since the castor oil worked so good on my stretch marks I decided to try something different on my face with the castor oil to see if it would reduce my acne scars, fine lines, crows feet and expression lines across my forehead. So after my shower, I will slather my face with a thick layer of castor oil mixed 50/50 with jojoba oil and cut small pieces of plastic wrap to put over my face (Leaving holes where my nostrils, eyes and mouth are) I even cut small pieces to fit over my eye lids and directly under my eyes as close to my eye as possible. Then I leave this on while I get ready for work or while I am doing housework for about 30 minutes to an hour. After I remove the plastic wrap I just lightly pat it with a clean dry cloth to remove the excess oil and apply my mineral powder over that.
Within 2 weeks of doing this the crepey skin on my upper eyelids has firmed up, my dark circles are completely gone, my acne scars are completely gone with the exception of a small area on each cheek where they are almost gone but not 100% yet. The lines on my lips have filled in and my lips are smooth and plump looking, my crows feet and smile lines around my eyes are reduced to the point where they are only barely visable when I'm actually smiling, , my eyelashes and eyebrows are growing in thicker and darker, the expression lines on my forehead are almost gone (there were three lines before horizontal across my forehead. The one on the top and the one on the bottom are completely gone and the middle one is fading. ) My skin has never looked this good before. Even the over all tone of my complexion is a nice creamy color and I can actually go out with no make up on for the first time in years! A few days ago a new girl at my work said that she is envious of my skin! She said that she always stares at my skin because its so beautiful looking! ME!!! I never though ever in my life I would hear those words. I actually cried, and this girl is 5 years younger than me.
Another added bonus since I started using castor oil on my body and face is that the eczema on my hands has started clearing up and it's almost gone. It's only been 2 weeks!
Sorry for the long essay here but I am just so excited. I want to share this amazing oil with other women who may be suffering from skin conditions like I was and now I am so happy with my skin and my body this is the happiest and most optimistic about my appearance I have ever been in my life. I hope this information can help someone out there as much as it has helped me. God Bless!
Castor Oil
Posted by Cindy (Washington Dc) on 01/13/2016
★★★★★
I've started doing a similar regiment. I like to dry brush my skin for a good 15 or 20 minutes and then blend olive oil and castor oil and lather it on my belly and hips and rub it in for a good 5 or 10 minutes before bed. I purchased a cheap workout waist cinch that's supposed to help reduce inches on your waist. I got to bed with the band on, it's real warm but you get used to it. It's been a week now and I'm amazed at how light my stretch marks have gotten and how much they've m shrunk . I've started to workout with the cinch on just to see if extra heat would make a difference. My skins tighter, my stretch marks are near invisible ... Castor oil is amazing.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Bri (Houston, Texas) on 03/07/2012
★★★★★
Extra Virgin Raw Coconut Oil is VERY good for stretch marks. I just started using it about two weeks ago and t's the best topical I've ever tried for my stretch marks. I also would recommend taking at least one or two tablespoons daily for even better results. Also, go out and purchase the roughest exfoliating tool that you can find and just go to town on the stretch marks until they are REALLY red and painful because in my experiance you need to do more than just apply oil. You need to assist your body by helping to physically remove the marks. Remember: no pain, no gain. And patience is key. The best tip I can give is to just get into a routine and don't stare at your marks everyday to see improvement because the change is too gradual to see and it will get you down. I had really deep stretch marks, they were horrible, but they are drastically improved. It's unreal how much better they look! I won't lie though, they aren't 100% gone but they are getting to that goal. You just have to keep at it. It has taken me over a year so far. I am not stopping until they're gone. This is war! :)
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Calhoun (Denver, Co) on 12/05/2015
Just a correction on the above recipe. It should read:
2 ounces of Camphor Oil
1 ounce of Peanut Oil
1/2 teaspoon of Lanolin (melted)
And Camphor oil can be made by adding 1 Oz Camphor Granules to 4 Oz Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Let the granules dissolve into the olive oil for a day or two.
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Samantha (Minnesota) on 05/10/2018
Her recipe is misquoted. The most important ingredient in the Cayce scar remedy is olive oil (which should be first in the ingredients list there). She accidentally put camphor twice.
Cocoa Butter
Posted by Clare (Ireland) on 07/01/2017
I'm sorry but that's ridiculous. You don't get stretch marks from "scratching"! I never once got itchy skin and I still got covered in stretch marks after pregnancy.
Almond, Olive and Vitamin E Oils
Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 05/28/2011
Hi Bitter Stretchmark Bearer,
With due respect, I beg to differ w/ you. First, I hesitate when people make blanket statements that we have no recourse for action due to the fact that "it's genetic". Dr. Gabriel Cousens likened it this way, "Our genetics are like a cocked gun but what we do is what pulls the trigger. " I have to agree w/ that. I believe there are too many factors involved that can change our course in life itself let alone our "genetics".
In regards to this subject, my mom had stretch marks on her body that looked like a road map. She was a woman who was never deterred by feeling "less than" and always wore her two piece bathing suits proudly! I envied her but at the same time dreaded that I would see the same fate. Well, I have no stretch marks and in each pregnancy I diligently slathered my belly and hips and thighs w/ coconut oil/ butter. Now I am not going to say this is the sole reason I did not see the same fate because I have always had an extremely good diet and became aware of dietary health at 19 when I read "Sugar Blues" which had a profound impact on me.
I have 5 children that I bore and gave birth naturally to whom are all healthy and grown now. So, please everyone, never believe that fate has cast the final say...
Almond, Olive and Vitamin E Oils
Posted by Next Nurse Of America (Mattoon, Il) on 08/03/2011
Stretch marks are not caused by any one thing. Genetics play a role; however overall health, the rate of growth/loss, and supplements all have an effect. Some people are more genetically predisposed to have stretch marks, but say you gain a lot of weight, very quickly (puberty, pregnancy, just general weight gain due to a poor lifestyle) and yet are not at risk genetically to get the scars you could still get them. Even if you are not over weight, in fact, it could be a man (I say this because I know a man this happened to) but if you work out a lot and build muscle too quickly, even that can cause stretch marks. The skin is very flexible, elastic and can take quite the beating, but just like a rubber band, you can only stretch it so far, for so long and so quickly before it is permanently damaged. The only difference is your skin is alive and can heal over time... A long time, but heals none the less. Also, pregnancy robs your body of its nutrient stores leaving the skin more likely to over stretch and be unable to compensate. That is where butters and oils come in; they are to enforce your skin, in a way. They "feed" your skin vitamins and oils that it greatly needs to be highly pliable, or to at least somewhat. Like I said there is more than one factor in place. My mother and sister both have them after having kids, I have not had any yet, but I do have some marks on my hips and inner thighs because puberty hit me like a ton of bricks and then I lost all the weight over my teen years. This left me with some ugly scars but exercising (lightly, mostly cardio and other non-muscle-building exercises such as yoga and Pilates) along with time and a healthy diet and keeping my skin moisturized, I have seen them begin to fade over the years. Just work against those risk factors as much as possible and your CHANCE (keyword ladies) of getting them will be reduced. Just think of them as any other ailment. There are only risk factors, not much is set in stone with the human body.
Hope this was enlightening for everyone! God bless!
Castor Oil
Posted by Crystal (Sc) on 06/10/2015
★★★★★
Thank you so much for posting this about castor oil. I have saved it in my phone as a motivational tool for me to try it. Well, I have been trying it for over 2 weeks and I have had exceptional results. I have tried it on my tummy and my face and I look and feel so beautiful. My skin tone on my face is the best its been since I was 16 years old (I'm 36 btw). Thank you once again. I am now a true believer of castor oil and I will use it forever as a daily regiment.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Happyhappyhappy (Port Of Spain, Trinidad) on 12/17/2011
★★★★★
I'm so sorry for not replying sooner, I was in the middle of the toughest semester ever. Anyway, I noticed improvements in the first three days. Then I had such high expectations for the treatment that I stopped noticing that it was actually working because I thought that all of the marks should be gone in two weeks. However, by the end of the first month, I realised that some had been completely removed and my faith was renewed. I continued to apply it only at night (it can be a little uncomfortable to sleep in though), and in about three months, maybe before, they were all gone. Hope I'm not too late with my response.
Almond, Olive and Vitamin E Oils
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia) on 05/28/2011
Baking Soda, Lemon Juice and Turmeric
Posted by Pnvatcha (Lahore, Pakistan) on 04/11/2015
★★★★★
Baking Soda, Lemon Juice and Turmeric for Stretch Marks and All Sorts of Skin Cancers or Diseases
Make a thick mixture of the three ingredients. Cut a lemon into half and squeeze it on the baking soda. The mixture will sparkle, and then add turmeric. Apply the solution to your skin. If the mixture becomes dry keep squeezing lemon. The color will change from yellow to orange and then it will turn into red until it is maroon or dark brown. You should not worry about the changing color. Just leave it on your skin overnight. You will see a tremendous improvement after the first application. You must continue applying the mixture until your marks disappear.
Turmeric heals all skin infections and muscular ailments. After the first few applications leave out turmeric only mix baking soda with lemon juice and use. This should get rid of the most stubborn stains if you use it regularly.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Gypsyqueen (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) on 03/15/2012
Thank you for the scrubbing advice! I have keratosis pilaris as well (so lucky!), so I scrub every day anyway... Now I will just scrub my stretch marks as well. I think the coconut oil is slowly helping, but I've had my marks for a long time, so it will take a long time to get rid of them. But they will be gone!
Castor Oil
Posted by Ja (Fort Washington, Pa) on 07/26/2012
By the way, wanted to update that I started using the castor oil (50 castor/50 olive oil) on my face. After the first use my pores shrunk and my skin felt amazing, like it has never felt before. While massaging it in, I could feel the grit of the black heads which had popped out. I got the castor oil from rite aid. I now have all of my friends and family using it... Everyone says I should sell it! I havent been consistent enough on my stretch marks but everything I have read says yes!
Devices
Posted by Prettiwylde (Hobart, Tasmania) on 01/14/2012
★★★★☆
I have 4 kids and had very bad stretch, I use a derma roller available on a popular auction site for around twenty dollars. I use this in conjunction with a vitamin a cream, here in australia it is known as ungvita and is used for nappy rash.
I have been using these for about 6 months and can guarantee all those out there thinking they are stuck with them forever or thinking about lasers or peels that this method works.
Some stretch marks were new, some over twenty years old, and I have seen a 75 percent improvement and will continue to use this method until they are all gone, patience is required as your body needs time to produce new collagen. Please don't despair. Try and you will get results like no other, and I have tried them all, creams, cloths, dermabrasion and peels.
Nothing is as effective at restructuring the skin, and as a mum of four I can tell you I had very bad marks on my tummy, breasts and thighs that are now almost invisible, not lighter in colour, mind-but healed and vanishing. Bless
Coconut Oil
Posted by Happyhappyhappy (Port Of Spain, Trinidad) on 01/09/2012
My stretch marks were older. I had had some of them since I was about 14 years old and I'm 23 now. Most of them had turned white. They were not pretty and it was rather severe. I had problem skin generally, acne and everything, so I thought that I'd have to live with them forever. Then when I got a few behind the knees, I thought they were gonna take over my life. I went all over looking for a remedy, only to have my mom, a nurse, tell me that coconut oil is recommended for pregnant women and that it really works. I'm not saying that you are unjustified in asking. All I'm trying to say is that you need to try it and see for yourself. When you do, just be consistent.
One question though, for the persons who actually try using coconut oil, are you sure that you are getting what you pay for? If you make it yourself and you are lucky, you should get about two ounces of oil from a large coconut. If you attempt to buy it, it may be wise to ask whether you are getting coconut oil, or coconut-scented oil. If you can get it pure, then spare no expense.
Sorry about the essay.
Water
Posted by Mmmm (Annapolis, Maryland) on 03/23/2012
I drink a lot of water a day, shower daily, all that stuff, but my stretch marks were brutal and did not go away at all. I even poured it on myself to see if it would work - no difference. I have huge dark ones on my breasts, stomach, crotch, arms, buttocks, and handles.
You're going to need a lot more than water to prevent them.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Sims (Branson, Missouri) on 11/19/2011
★★★★★
I read this about 2 months ago and started using it on my stretch marks which are 9 years old from having my son, on my belly and they are white... I saw a remarkable difference... I rub in cold pressed coconut oil once or twice a day, always after I shower... I heard it can take months but I see a major difference so I am keeping with it... I am also taking the coconut oil internally for other things and also using it on my face, my crows feet are GONE... I am 33
Coconut Oil
Posted by Gypsyqueen (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) on 02/05/2012
I am 40 and have had stretch marks since I was a teenager. I've never been pregnant and I've never gained/lost a large amount of weight. I think mine are part hereditary and partly me growing quickly as an adolescent. I have been using coconut oil on them religiously for maybe 3 weeks or a little more. Sometimes I think I see changes and other times I think they look the same. People saying they see changes in days, especially those who have had them for years and years... Well this seems almost impossible to me! But clearly people on here have had some real success with coconut oil so I will contiue to use it. After having them for so long it's only realistic to assume it will take a number of months to show results in getting rid of them. I will keep at it and post my results. Fingers crossed!
Almond, Olive and Vitamin E Oils
Posted by Anne (Raleigh, Nc) on 07/09/2011
To: Macmommy from Memphis
In regards to your comment about your mother's genes and how she had stretch marks and you did not. I would like to point out a very SIMPLE fact.... Not all of your genes come from your mother (think grand parents, great unlces and so forth plus some genes are recesive and some are not). So you may just be one of those lucky people who happen to have good skin and therefore aren't really affected by the stretch mark issue. And even though you applied all those ointments on your skin, they only worked to maintain what was already in really good condition.
I have a baby boy and I applied vitamin E oils with shea butter and coconut oils on my body at breakfast, lunch and dinner during and after pregnancy. (I was 5'2' and weighted 115lbs before pregancy and I gained 25lbs during pregnancy... Dramatic change! ) I got stretch marks like a road map. My mother and sister, who is also a mother, don't have stretch marks. The one thing I will say that trully worked to "reduce" the stretch marks after birth is the fact that I got my six pack back - this reduced their size slightly.
The one TRUE cure to completely get the scars out is to wait for them to fade (even with this, they never ever really fade away). Or you could do like the super models and get some plastic surgeon to work on you (also takes time and LOTS of money).
Anne from Raleigh
Almond, Olive and Vitamin E Oils
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky) on 10/28/2012 2048 posts
Amanda: as for the Zinc/Copper relationship, they don't "compete" against each other any more than a man & woman, they are simply bi-polar. They need Balance to function together. Zinc/Copper function together to make a major defense enzyme in the body called Zn/Co Superoxide Dismutase.
Baking Soda, Lemon Juice and Turmeric
Posted by Dann (Los Angeles) on 09/27/2015
Hi... About the remedy for stretch marks with turmeric, baking soda and lemon juice: the last remark about taking out the turmeric and using only lemon juice and baking soda, is it to help clear marks and dark spots (like from scars) on the skin? or to clear spots or stains on the skin after using the mix with turmeric? Also what amount of ingredients should we use? Thanks!
Baking Soda, Lemon Juice and Turmeric
Posted by Helen Musesa (Kitwe, Zambia) on 12/03/2016
I want to know how much baking powder and turmeric I should add to lemon juice?
Castor Oil
Posted by Ibilola (Namibia) on 10/14/2013
Hi Shivi, castor oil is a natural essential oil, so it shouldn't "bleach" your skin. I think what it will do is restore your skin cells (as much as possible), so anyone can use it. I, for one, am going to try all this because I'm a 21-year-old with stretch marks and dark circles under my eyes from allergies. Instead of looking lively and young, I just look tired. And I'd love to wear shorts once in a while but my stretch marks only have me wearing them comfortably at night or in winter when I can wear stockings underneath. So I'm glad I came across this :)
Diet, Essential Oils
Posted by Samd24 (New York) on 04/14/2012
★★★★★
After a lost of research into stretch marks, how you get them and how to heal them, I have successfully eradicated over 80% of my marks with a combination of nutrition and topical application. Nutritionally I drink a lot of long-cooked chicken and beef broth from pastured animals, raw egg yolks, coconut oil. Topically, I found that a lot of essential oils can help regenerate skin such as rosehipseed, helichrysum, gotu kola and others. I found a natural stretch mark product that contains these oils along with other plant oils that I used, not sure if I am allowed to mention the name, but it is avishi organics intensive repair oil for stretch marks. So, yes I believe that stretch marks can be healed, I am living proof, our bodies are capable of healing anything in the right environment!
Castor Oil
Posted by Susan (New York) on 02/14/2012
I would like to try this fanastic remedy. What kind of plastice wrap are you using? EG: Saran Wrap? Are there any chemical concerned?
Castor Oil
Posted by Courtney (Granite Bay, Ca) on 02/15/2012
Kbear - What type castor oil are you using? Is it the 'regular, old castor oil' that can be purchased anywhere, or is it organic/cold-pressed?
Thanks!
Castor Oil
Posted by Harmonious1 (Alamogordo, Nm) on 02/28/2012
To "Kbear from Langdon, Alberta, T0j1x2" Thanks for the information. I am going to try this, for sure. I have used he castor oil packs before.
As I read your post I thought "This gal should be checked out for pyroluria! " The acne, and stretch marks are a clue. At the very least get your zinc/copper ratio checked.
Castor Oil
Posted by Ja (Fort Washington, Pa) on 04/20/2012
It's so nice to read this just how thrilled and relieved you are- makes me so happy for you, a stranger : ) Can't wait to try it too!
Castor Oil
Posted by Shivi (California, Usa) on 06/12/2012
Hi kbear.. I have brown skin so wouldnt want the marks to get lighter in colour.. Did the castor oil make them lighter or fade them away?? If anyone else can help too please that would be great :)
Castor Oil
Posted by Jennifer (Texas, US) on 07/17/2014
Would you mind sharing what type of castor oil you used? I would like to know what works best. Seems likes there's so many options when I researched it. Thank you in advance!
Castor Oil
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 06/10/2015
Crystal, what kind do you use?
Devices
Posted by Heather (San Diego) on 07/15/2012
I would love to hear from more people who've used a derma roller for scars stretch marks.
Previous poster said it was cheap on the big auction site but company websites claim theirs are the only effective ones at about $200 for a kit. That seems very, very expensive and painful so I haven't bought one.
Please - anyone out there who has used one, please leave your feedback! It's VERY easy to leave feedback on Earthclinic and they don't spam or anything.
THANKS!
Devices
Posted by Pocono (Los Angeles, Ca ) on 11/25/2013
Hi. I purchased a dermaroller for 14.95 on the most popular auction site as directed by women who have posted videos of their success using it. I also have worked in a plastic surgeon's office that was the first to introduce this method. you should never pay more than $20 for the roller itself. None of them are superior. I have first hand experience with the expensive and the cheaply priced rollers they are the same. The only difference you will notice depends on your consistent use, products and the way you heal.
The one I purchased gave directions of rolling 10 times up, 10 down, 10 left, 10 right, 10 diagonal across up both ways in an x formation, for a total of 6 directions.
I have only used mine twice. I'm a bit ticklish and for me the sensation borders on tickling with a slight pain. I covered my skin in cold pressed EVCO. I will try to keep this up 1-2 week for 6 months or until they are gone. A girl who posted a video on the most popular site said that she did it for 6 months and TOTALLY erased her stretchmarks.
Devices
Posted by Natalie (Washington Dc) on 05/29/2014
★★★★★
I, as well attest to the wonders that the derma roller has done on the stretchmarks I've had all along my buttocks and hips since puberty. I remember desperately wanting them eradicated back when I was still in college and managed to fade them up to 60 percent, they are barely noticeable now and I can wear a bathing suit without being embarrassed about them. I am going to go back to rolling since it was the only thing that came close to completely erasing them, this time I will be more committed to getting them eliminated, if I managed to erase more than half when I was a college student with little time I am sure I can reach my goal now with a much more flexible schedule. Be sure to use a cream that will help you produce collagen prior to rolling, A good one is Coconut oil or even Vitamin E capsules once you start rolling the cream will go deep into your skin attempting to plump the areas of stretchmarks where collagen was lost. I will keep you posted once I start derma rolling again.
Devices
Posted by Jess (Melbourne, Australia) on 07/15/2016
I've used derma roller's successfully. I have heaps - all over my bum from when I was 12 (I'm 28) and more recently very light ones down my thighs from weightgain during the last few years.
I had a horribly forked stretchmark that really hurt across my left hip that was about 3-4mm wide that, using a single-lined roller, I managed to get rid of about 80% of it.
I'm fairly certain that using a regular 1.5mm roller along my thighs helped make the stretchmarks on that area lighter. I've been focusing a lot on the area you can see when I'm wearing a swimsuit (bottom/side of my bum) and the stretchmarks there are still visible but seem shallower than the ones on my actual bum cheek that I haven't been attacking.
I've since moved onto the Derminator - it's a machine that lets you use either a single needle or a 9-needle cartridge, and it is far superior and easier to use. Yes, still smarts but it isn't anywhere near as painful as using a manual single needle or the other deep rollers.
A few things to note:
- you need to use Vitamin C and Vitamin A in conjunction with the roller. Pre-treat the area with both for a month before using the roller.
- ONLY roll every 5 weeks. You can damage your skin if you do it more often.
- Use the creams after you have finished rolling.
- Make sure you sterilise your instruments and work on clean skin.
- To reach the damage and crush the collagen (this is what you are doing with the needle and the body re-heals itself properly) you need a fairly long needle: 1.5-2mm length
There is an excellent resource that everyone should read before embarking on needling. It's written by Dr Des Fernandes, one of the pioneers of the technique and also the creator of Environ skincare. The skincare range is fantastic and I have been using it since I was 16. He discusses the type of Vitamin A you need (retinyl palmitate).
http://www.acaciadermacare.com/upload/docs/PCI - Plastic Surgery Journal - April 2008.pdf
If you want more great articles to read on the technique:
http://www.essentialdayspa.com/forum/viewthread.php?tid=29860
Good luck! I'm still working on mine but any improvement is better than none!
Jojoba Oil
Posted by Kathie (Houston, Tx) on 12/06/2011
★★★★★
I used jojoba oil on my belly while I was pregnant and I did not get a single stretch mark! I wish I had used it on my breasts!!!
Coconut Oil
Posted by Happyhappyhappy (Port Of Spain, Trinidad) on 11/28/2011
★★★★★
You CAN'T go wrong with coconut oil. It just makes the stretch marks vanish. And I mean any mark!! I'm really psyched about this. I still can't believe that I have perfect skin. Wear it in the morning when you go for a walk or run and it will work together with the sun to give you a weird (in a good way) caramel color. Especially if you're black. I live on an island so we're always in bikini season and I always feel comfortable baring my tushy on the sand. Use it and you won't regret it. Sorry if I came over as over-excited. That's how good it is.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Lara (Los Angeles, Ca, Usa) on 12/09/2011
Happy, Happy, Happy! How long do you have to use the oil before you notice improvement on the stretch marks!? Thanks so much!
Coconut Oil
Posted by Melony (Calgary, Alberta) on 12/21/2011
Hi, Happy, Happy, Happy, I was just wondering what color your marks were and if they were older or newer, thank you in advance.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Melony (Calgary, Ab) on 01/11/2012
Hi happyhappyhappy! Thank you very much for your response! I was curious because we have similar skin tone, thank you for renewing my faith! I will give coconut oil a try : )
Coconut Oil
Posted by Sara (Sacramento, Ca, Usa) on 03/05/2012
Happy Day! How much olive oil and how much mustard were mixed together to make this combination, and how often do you apply it on your skin? Thank you so much and God bless.
Water
Posted by Kenz (Phoenix, Az) on 09/15/2011
★★★★★
From what have learned from living in a dry climate, water is the most essential tool in stretch mark prevention. I drink a gallon daily. Another thing most women don't know is that most body washes contain chemicals that dry out the skin, causing susceptibility to stretch marks ( sodium laureth sulfate). This chemical also causes mutation of the skin cells and overactive sweat glands (from the dryness), leading to acne of face and body. Keep your body moisurized with oil ( I would recommend grapeseed oil because it doesn't clog pores), not lotions because they clog pores. I am prone to stretch marks and when I just rinse my body with warm water, it stays moisturized just fine! I don't get stretch marks when I do these things, just when I stop and my skin gets dried out. I hope this helps! Good luck to you!
Water
Posted by Lauren (San Marcos, Tx) on 01/06/2012
I agree. Water is a key component to maintaining skin elasticity. A good diet with lots of fibrous vegetables, using mild or natural cleansers on the skin and not showering every day are also important.
Water
Posted by Mtlguy (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) on 02/14/2012
Yes water is super important!
Can someone explain to me a good way to heal scar tissue? It seems impossible without lasers I'd like to do it naturally. Thanks!!
Jojoba Oil
Posted by Angel (Palmerston North, New Zealand) on 09/02/2011
★★★★★
I don't know about castor oil on the skin, but I did a bit of research about what I could use on my face and body( I'm pregnant and don't like to use un-natural chemical filled creams etc), and ended up purchasing organic jojoba oil. It contains natural collagen which is almost identical to that which our bodies produce, doesn't clog pours, is great for all skin types, can improve acne, great for wrinkles, is light and easily absorbed. On top of this, it is also great for the hair, helps resolve dandruff, and can be used to prevent/ treat stretch marks. All of this in the one oil sounded great to me, so I bought it and have been using it for 2 weeks, I love it. Apparently it has been used for hundreds of years as a wound/ skin healer.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Lmorgans (St. Paul, Mn) on 06/25/2011
★★★★★
If you have stretch marks, do not fear, you
can get rid of them! I gained a lot of weight this year, and I have been using Mederma for months. I did see some improvement, but I couldn't see Mederma ultimately erasing all of my stretch marks. I have been using raw, hard-pressed coconut oil on my skin daily for two weeks now and my newest stretch marks are already gone. My slightly older stretch marks are rapidly improving.
Raw, hard-pressed coconut oil is anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and can be used for makeup removal or for cooking. This stuff is amazing!!! It even aids in anti-aging as it is loaded with antioxidants. It needs to be the raw, hard-pressed oil though. I found some at rms beauty online ($18/bottle) but I'm sure it can be found for cheaper. It will feel really oily at first, but as your skin gets used to it, it will soak into your skin really quickly. You will not be disappointed!
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Ale (Cardiff, Uk) on 01/07/2011
★★★★★
I have tried Edgar Cayce's recipe for scars on my 20-year-old stretch marks and, after using it daily for two months, I have noticed amazing results (about 70% gone)! So I will keep using it until they fade completely. The most important ingredient is camphor. Btw, camphor is also what gives Vicks Vaporub its caracteristic smelll... I guess this could the ingredient that makes it work for some people. It didn't work for me, though. So I decided to keep looking until I found this recipe for scars in Cayce's readings:
2 ounces of camphor oil
1 ounce of peanut oil
1/2 teaspoon of camphor
The most difficult ingredient to find was the organic cold-pressed peanut oil. I purchased it online from a natural food store. I had always believed that stretch marks could only be removed by surgery. I was delighted to find out that this is not true!
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Brooke (Montgomery, Tx, Usa) on 01/07/2011
★★★★★
I am so happy it worked for you! It worked for me also! I also put it on my face at night - and have minimal wrinkles - as I am 40 years old about to be 41 in Feb. - I have been using Cayce's remedies for approx 25 years! I use Castor Oil plain and I use the peanut oil, olive oil and camphor oils also. I am so glad it is working for you though! Keep up the good work.
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Kay (In The Valley, Ca) on 01/08/2011
Ale, could you tell me the difference between the camphor oil and the camphor in the recipe? Thanks
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Brooke (Montgomery, Tx, Usa) on 01/08/2011
Kay,
I think that she means the Camphor crystals. I have them in my medicine cabinet. You can also get camphor oil, which is just camphor crystals dissolved in olive oil. I make my own as it is less expensive. For my scars (that I use to have! ) I use Scargo which is the same as: Camphorated oil 2 ounces, Lanolin 1/2 teaspoon, and Peanut oil 1 ounce. However, it takes a long time to make the new skin grow back - so don't give up!!
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Ale (Cardiff, Uk) on 01/12/2011
Brooke is right, Kay. It is cheaper to make camphor oil at home by dissolving camphor crystals in olive oil. That's what I did. Just make sure you buy natural camphor and not the synthetic one.
One could easily purchase Camphor oil here in the UK, but I'm not sure that is the case in all countries, due to its toxicity (http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-camphor.htm).
Which makes me wonder, Brooke, how safe it is to use this recipe as a long-term treatment on the face (even though I am sure it delivers impressive results and am dying to try it...).
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Brooke (Montgomery, Tx, Usa) on 01/12/2011
The truth is that I have been doing this for approx 1-2 weeks at night with the Scargo oil on my face and yesterday morning I woke up with terrible dryness around my lower part of my face and lips!! So if you are to try this, then I wouldn't do it every night!! Maybe one time a week would be ok - but I am not going to try it again until my face gets back to normal!!
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Ale (Cardiff, Uk) on 01/15/2011
I tried it on my face last night and this morning I did experience some dryness. I already have pretty dry skin, so I don't think I will try it again. Thanks for the heads-up, though!
Another possibility would be to use it every other day, alternating with the olive oil and myrrh tincture mix that Cayce recommended for scars as well...
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Kel (Yorkshire, England) on 10/19/2011
Hi, please tell me how often you applied this... Very excited to here something finally works... Stretch marks depress me!! Where in England do you buy the ingredients? from x
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Erika8102 (New York, NY) on 01/29/2013
Hi I am just now reading this, I have been with stretch marks for 5 years now, can you please explain to me the process, I'm very new here I'm a little confused, how many times a day do you do this, and do you heat the olive oil and then put the camphor in? Details would be nice thank you so much.
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Ann (Usa) on 09/14/2014
Hi. I was so glad to read that the use of this recipe has been making such a dramatic difference! I am wondering can a quantity of the mixture be made to use over time or do you have to make it fresh for each usage?
Also, I would probably have to use something other than peanut oil. I would probably try cocoa butter or almond oil with the camphor oil and camphor. These are the closest to peanut oil I think. Please give any info. you can. I am happy for you that it is really helping to heal your skin.
Wishing you well, Ann
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Aiza (Virginia) on 12/27/2015
If I may ask, when you say that you applied this concoction daily, can you be more specific?
Did you apply this once, twice or thrice per day? Did you use a dermaroller or did you just apply the oils on their own? And did you wrap yourself in saranwrap to let the oils soak in as deeply as possible?
Sorry to ask so many questions, but your testimonial has given me so much hope for the first time in a LONG time, that I wish to be sure that I properly do what you have done.
I thank you in advance for understanding.
Edgar Cayce Remedy
Posted by Irene Y. (NYC) on 03/31/2021
Are you talking about that camphor ice tablet when you say camphor?
Shea Butter
Posted by Regulator555 (Grand Rapids, Mi, Usa) on 06/02/2010
★★★★★
Not everyone can prevent stretch marks. However, I massaged my belly, arms, chest, thighs, and rear with 100% pure, organic shea butter everyday. I got as big as a house, but not a mark to be found. I'm certain drinking water also helps.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Rebecca (Madison, WI) on 10/29/2008
★★★★★
I was considered on the worst end of the scale when it came to measuring my stretchmarks. they were horrible, but i have found that rubbin extra virgin coconut oil on them once a day (you dont even have to be religous about it) cures them almost 100 per cent in nine months, i would recommend this to anyone and everyone.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Dana (Montclair, Ca, Usa) on 02/19/2010
Curious-were your stretch marks old or new?
Coconut Oil
Posted by Gypsyqueen (Ottawa, Ontario) on 03/04/2012
★☆☆☆☆
Hello! Well I've been using pure 100% coconut oil on my stretch marks since mid-January maybe..... So going on 7 weeks. I am reporting my findings. Well I have to say I have not noticed too much change with them unfortunately. I apply faithfully once a day and quite often 2 times a day. Usually right out of the shower but on occasion in the evening as well. I have switched it up and bought a few different brands but I haven't noticed much change. I have had mine for a long time and they are all that white/silvery colour. I have read about people's successes on here so I will keep plugging away, but if anyone can share more details about their successes that would be great.
What brand did you use? How often did you use it and so on. A lot of people seem to say 3 months and they are all gone. That seems like a dream to me! I guess everyone is different. Anyway I will keep in using it and will keep updating my findings. :)
Coconut Oil
Posted by Drak (Louvain-la-neuve, Belgium) on 03/05/2012
Well it is an old practice in our country, India to use coconut oil for stretch marks. We use Mustard Oil and Olive oil also for this.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Diana (Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada) on 06/19/2012
Hi everybody, So I was wondering if anybody knows if I have an allergy to nuts (only when ingested, smell etc. doesn't seem to bother me) if it is ok to try the coconut oil treatment for stretch marks?
Coconut Oil
Posted by B (Vancouver, BC) on 06/24/2012
Hi Diana - I am allergic to nuts as well (mostly peanuts and walnuts). Coconut isn't an actual nut (check Wikipedia or just google info about coconuts to confirm). I consume coconut oil and apply it to my skin all the time without problem.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 06/25/2012
B and Diana, some say that tolerating coconut OIL might not include tolerance for the coconut itself.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Deanna (Pensacola, Florida) on 07/15/2012
I'm also using coconut oil, I just started using and I am even putting them on old scars from playing on bikes and falling and other outdoor activities that I ended up with a scar. Well I am seeing signifficant amount of difference in appearance. I highly reccomend using this coconut oil 100% organic cooking oil. It went out of date and I thought since I have read to use olive oil from another web site I decided to use this. I found it at a health food store about 25 to 30 $ not bad, but I am a white woman 25 years old with stretch marks and I just found this out and now i'm using it. It's a cooking oil, I put it in the fridge and then pull it out let it thaw some and put it on me. Try it and share your findings with this extra virgin coconut oil 100% organic. You can use it too cook too, but I wouldnt reccomend it if you are putting you hands in the jar and rubbing it on your marks. Put some in a different jar and keep rest for cooking. You don't want skin cells in your cooking oil. Also I find that if you don't scrub then you won't see the redness back. If your into your appearance I reccomend not scrubbing unless their sticking out and built up. Hope this helps like I said post back on your findings.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Westen (Louisville, Ohio) on 01/29/2013
Gypsyqueen from Ottawa - Just wanted to know if you truly had had succes with the coconut oil. I have started using for about 4 weeks now, and am hoping that it will begin to work within the next few months... although I don't have my hopes up.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Sarah (Cincinnati, Oh) on 05/25/2014
How old were your stretch marks? Mine are 13 years old.
Cocoa Butter
Posted by Sam (Mount Holly, NC) on 09/02/2008
★☆☆☆☆
I used palmers cocoa butter for my first pregnancy and have stretch marks on my chest, stomach and thighs. For my second I used vitamin E and the cocoa butter and still got more stretch marks. My sister used nothing for either of her pregnancies and doesnt have noticable stretch marks. We are very similar body types and both gained an average amount of weight. I think a lot of it depends on each individual's skin.
Cocoa Butter
Posted by Cher (Hawaii) on 12/09/2016
You got stretch marks, because you scratched your stomach. As the months go by your skin stretches, and becomes itchy. Therefore to relieve the itchiness you react naturally and scratch your tummy. To prevent it when it itches, put a towel over your tummy, and rub gently. Share this info with your friends. Love, and cherish your babies...they are your gift, from God!!!
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Kelly (Chicago, IL) on 05/26/2008
An alpha hydroxy got rid of my stretch marks, even the really old ones. I either just use a lemon and rub it against my skin or Juice Beauty peels.
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Susie (Murrieta, CA) on 04/03/2009
Hi, So just rubbing a lemon on your stretch marks made them go away? That would be a blessing for me. How often did you do it? Did you do anything else along with rubbing the lemon? Thanks, just want to make sure I do it right :)
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Rondel (Vancouver, BC, Canada) on 05/11/2009
I also would love to hear more about the lemon remedy. I think I'll give it a shot and try to figure it out. It would be a wonderful thing if it worked for me :)
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Cindy (Austin, Tx) on 12/13/2010
Hey do you cut the lemon in half and rub the inside of the lemon? or you rub the outside of the lemon on your stretchmarks??
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Brooke (Montgomery, Tx, Usa) on 12/14/2010
I use a mixture of Olive Oil, Peanut Oil, Lanolin, Camphor, Beeswax. You can look that up and find some companies that make it. It takes a while, 1 year for a scar on my child, and 2 years for my stretch marks on my abdomen, but it works!!
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Jenn (Manila, A2) on 02/23/2011
Dear Cindy, I don't think you can get any nutrient from an uncut lemon. So yes, you must cut it.
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Cece (Ehenfeld, Bavaria, Germany) on 03/10/2011
Dear Jenn, the only stupid question is the one that isn't asked. I would rather ask a silly question to make sure I understand than not ask and do something the wrong way. What may seem like common sense to some, it isn't to everyone.
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Amy (Tampa, Fl) on 04/13/2013
★★★★★
Wow!! This really does work!! I just lost a lot of weight recently and was getting concerned because some stretch marks were developing. I used your lemon trick, and they started to disappear before my eyes. Thank you for the simple tip.
Alpha Hydroxy
Posted by Autum (Nh) on 12/22/2014
I would agree that drastic weight gain causes stretch marks. I remember having too much ramen noodles at one sitting. Felt ill after all that woke up the next day and felt fatter. I was not an obese child. I was a busy young woman in my mid 20's when I became pregnant working full time in a manufacturing company so was rather in decent shape. In the beginning I started the coco butter regiment but quit due to laziness and the belief that it might not work. Plus I'm not a big fan on putting grease all over my body. I'm under 5' and gained a bit of weight to naturally birth an 8.5 lbs baby boy. Yep gained stretch marks where my skin was taught before. Then came my daughter who weighed even more at 9.10 lbs. More stretch marks. My older sister had two kids but they her babies averaged around 6 lbs. No stretch marks for her and she also has the size breasts I'd like but that's another story.
