A study states that the application of emollients and moisturizers is critical in improving stretch marks (2). Well-moisturized and hydrated skin are more elastic than dehydrated skin. Keeping the skin moisturized may help minimize the occurrence of stretch marks and also prevent them. Coconut oil may help reduce stretch marks due to the following benefits:
It has moisturizing properties: Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer. the skin barrier function by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) or loss of water from the epidermis, thus keeping the skin hydrated (3). It boosts collagen development: It stimulates fibroblasts and promotes collagen production (which is vital for wound healing and scar formation) (4). It protects the skin from UV damage: It protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV exposure (which is crucial for scar recovery) (4). It is anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory effects and can protect your skin from inflammatory conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and eczema (5).
These properties of coconut oil (especially virgin coconut oil) can keep your skin healthy and may also help in minimizing the appearance of stretch marks. If you want to use coconut oil for pregnancy stretch marks or any other stretch marks, here are the ways to use it.
How To Use Coconut For Stretch Marks
Note: Use only virgin coconut oil. If you are pregnant and want to try out any of the recipes listed below, you must consult a doctor.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil helps to keep the skin moisturized and may reduce the appearance of stretch marks. You Will Need 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil Method
2. Coconut Oil And Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has a moisturizing effect on the skin (6). Along with the coconut oil, it can keep the skin healthy and minimize stretch marks. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil 1 tablespoon of fresh aloe vera gel
Method
3. Coconut Oil And Castor Oil
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has skin-conditioning effects (7). This combination can help keep the skin moisturized and soft. You Will Need
1 teaspoon of castor oil 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
4. Coconut Oil And Turmeric
Turmeric helps to boost collagen development and can help treat psoriasis and other skin conditions (8). While its effect on stretch marks is not well-researched, it can contribute to skin health. You Will Need
½ teaspoon of turmeric powder 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
5. Coconut Oil, Salt, And Sugar
Salt and sugar work well as scrubbers due to their coarse texture. Scrubbing helps to get rid of dead skin cells. While there are no scientific studies to establish the benefits of salt and sugar for stretch marks, anecdotal evidence suggests that they can help reduce the appearance of these marks. You Will Need
1 teaspoon of salt 1 tablespoon of sugar 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
6. Coconut Oil And Olive Oil
Although olive oil was found to negatively affect the TEWL rate of the skin and make it dry, it was found to promote wound healing in mice studies (9). Along with coconut oil, it may keep the skin moisturized and help with stretch marks. You Will Need
½ teaspoon of virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
7. Coconut Oil And Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil helps in wound healing and reduces skin infection (10). However, its effect on stretch marks is not documented. It is believed that it is anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties can reduce the appearance of stretch marks. You Will Need
2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
8. Coconut Oil And Shea Butter
Shea butter contains tocopherol, phenols, and sterols and has anti-inflammatory properties. Shea butter products were found to have similar efficacy as products containing ceramides (11). You Will Need
1 tablespoon of shea butter 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
9. Coconut Oil And Lemon Juice
There is no scientific research that establishes the efficacy of lemon juice for stretch marks. However, this widely used ingredient has a bleaching effect on the skin, which may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. You Will Need
½ teaspoon of lemon juice 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
10. Coconut Oil And Baking Soda
It is not recommended to apply baking soda on the skin due to its abrasive effect. However, it is a popular home remedy and is used for exfoliation. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the harsh nature of baking soda may help improve the skin texture of the stretch marks. Avoid this recipe if you have sensitive skin. You Will Need
½ teaspoon of baking soda 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
11. Coconut Oil and Coffee Scrub
Coffee grounds have a coarse texture and are excellent for scrubbing the skin. The effect of scrubbing on stretch marks is not known yet. However, you may try this recipe for exfoliation. You Will Need
1 teaspoon of coffee grounds 1-2 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil
Method
12. Coconut Oil And Vaseline
Vaseline is occlusive. When applied, it prevents the moisture from escaping your skin, thus helping in maintaining hydration (12). However, due to its occlusive nature, it also does not allow any other ingredient to penetrate your skin. Using Vaseline and coconut oil together may not keep the skin moisturized, but layering coconut oil with Vaseline might help. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil 1 teaspoon of Vaseline
Method
13. Coconut Oil And Egg White
Egg white is a popular home remedy and is used in face masks as it makes the skin tighter. There is no scientific proof that it works on stretch marks, but you may try this popular remedy if you want to. You Will Need
White of one egg 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
14. Coconut Oil And Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E helps to stabilize the skin barrier and is a potent antioxidant (13). Together with coconut oil, vitamin E can keep the skin healthy and may also improve stretch marks. You Will Need
1-2 vitamin E softgels 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
15. Coconut Oil And Camphor
Applying camphor to the skin induces an increase in blood flow (14). However, its effect on stretch marks is not known. Camphor may help improve blood flow to the affected area and improve the overall appearance of the skin. You Will Need
2 drops of camphor oil 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method These are the ways you can use coconut oil to reduce stretch marks. Although coconut oil is considered safe to use for the skin, you need to be aware of the associated risks.
Side Effects And Risks Of Using Coconut Oil On The Skin
Virgin coconut oil is considered a non-skin irritant, and it is also non-phototoxic, which means it will not make your skin vulnerable to sun damage (3). Pregnant women can also use it topically on their abdomen to prevent severe stretch marks (after consulting their doctor). However, if you are allergic to coconut, your skin might react to it. The common signs of an allergic reaction include:
Hives Rashes Itchiness Redness Burning sensation Skin irritation
Hence, it is better to check if you are allergic to coconut oil before proceeding with any of the above methods. Also, it is recommended to use virgin coconut oil and not the refined variants available on the market. Refined oils might contain additives that are harmful to the skin.
When should I start applying oil for stretch marks? Stretch marks are normal, and you need not worry about them. Keep the skin moisturized and follow a skin care routine. If you are concerned about their appearance, consult a doctor to learn about procedures to fade them. You can start using coconut oil anytime to help hydrate and nourish your stretch marks. Ensure you conduct a patch test to check for allergic reactions before application. Is coconut oil better than lotion? Both coconut oil and lotion are beneficial for your skin. A body lotion and coconut oil hydrate your skin and prevent dryness, which may be effective in improving the appearance of stretch marks. You can use either or both as per your preference. Do you apply coconut oil before or after a shower? You can apply coconut oil before or after your shower to help seal the moisture and keep your skin hydrated.
