soaps, cosmetics and many other products. Being a natural emollient, it not only softens and dehydrates the skin but helps in treating several skin ailments. It is best recommended for the prevention and fading of stretch marks.

One of the Best Solutions for Stretch Marks

Also known as ‘Striae Atrophicae’, stretch marks can appear both in men and women due to weight gain, pregnancy, swelling, obesity or sudden loss of weight. They generally develop when the top layer of the skin i.e. epidermis is stretched rapidly leaving behind white or silver lines or stretch marks on the skin. Since these marks are commonly visible

on abdomen area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms and buttocks, they look quite ugly. Though they do not assert any health problem, these marks do not vanish completely.

Castor oil is the best solution to get rid of unwanted stretch marks. Being a potent moisturizer, the application method of castor oil is quite simple. A small bottle of castor oil is sufficient to do its job. A thick layer of this oil is rubbed over the affected area. Then it is allowed to wrap with a saran wrap or plastic sheet.

For better results, it is then suggested to apply a heating pad or a hot water bottle directly on the areas that are to be treated or protected for about 20-25 minutes. The heat applying method can be stretched up to forty five minutes as long as it does not scorch the skin. The results will surely be visible within eight to ten days if the treatment is continued once a day for at least a week.

Side Effects and Safety Notes

Treating stretch marks with castor oil is safe and very beneficial. The silver and white scars on the skin caused due to tearing of the dermis will diminish over time, if not disappear completely.

However, it is strongly recommended to consult a dermatologist or a physician before switching over to castor oil. Besides being messy, the use of castor oil can be dangerous for a baby. Thus, pregnant and lactating women should only use castor oil with the prior approval of their doctor.