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Stretch Mark Prevention

By Kitty Magoo, CP Advice Columnist

Dear Kitty,
What do you recommend for preventing and minimizing stretch marks naturally?

Signed,
Stretched in Strum

Dear Stretched,
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body for a wide variety of reasons. While they’re completely harmless, their appearance is considered by some to be unsightly. Happily, stretch marks are sometimes preventable and often treatable -- although they very rarely disappear completely, they do fade!

One of the most common causes of stretch marks for women is pregnancy. (No surprise, since the skin of a woman’s body has to stretch to accommodate a growing baby!) In Organic Body Care Recipes, author Stephanie Tourles explains that the key to preventing stretch marks while pregnant is to frequently and consistently apply a conditioning and hydrating oil, cream, salve, or butter to any areas of your body (belly, butt, breasts, etc.) that might be stretchin’ out.

Try this recipe adapted from Tourles’ book: Combine two tablespoons avocado oil, two tablespoons jojoba oil, and one tablespoon beeswax in a small saucepan over low heat and slowly warm until beeswax has melted. Remove from heat and add ten drops of lavender essential oil, stirring to blend. Pour mixture into a container, let cool for 20 minutes, and cap. Massage a generous amount into affected areas at least three times a day for best results. This recipe is not just for pregnant women -- it can be used by anybody whose skin may be stretching.

To minimize the appearance of stretch marks, I suggest rosehip seed oil, which has remarkable repairing and regenerating properties. Both Aubrey and Evan Healy, among others, make great products featuring rosehip seed oil.

Meow!