4 common body issues that can make you feel self-conscious

Forget our weight – there are other body issues and insecurities that can make us feel just as self-conscious about our appearance. That’s totally normal.

The good news is, now is the perfect time to commit to treating your body bugbears so that by next summer, they’ll no longer affect your confidence. So, let’s get started!

STRETCH MARKS

Stretch marks occur when the skin has rapidly stretched as a result of puberty, pregnancy or weight gain, and usually pop up on the hips, thighs or tummy. Whether you’re a woman or man, slim or curvy, anyone can get stretch marks – and they come in different shapes, sizes and colours. Typically, new stretch marks will be more red in colour and then fade to a silvery white. While prevention is always your best bet, you can’t always predict the changes to your body, which is why many of us are left with these annoying little lines. But don’t fret – there are things you can do to reduce their appearance.

Solutions:

DIY at home

Some common kitchen ingredients can help to fade and heal stretch marks. Potato juice, for example, contains vitamins and minerals that aid in the growth and restoration of skin cells. So, you could try cutting a potato in half and rubbing it on the stretch mark area for a few minutes. Other at-home solutions include using lemon juice, egg whites and olive oil.

Products for stretch marks

Professional treatment for stretch marks

E-Dermastamp/Dermaroller with Platelet Rich Plasma at Cosmos Clinic in Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide and the Gold Coast.

CELLULITE

A lot of people are under the impression that only overweight people have cellulite, but that’s not true. Even Chrissy Teigen, whose body is the envy of women all over the world, has admitted to having the lumpy, bumpy imperfection. There are many factors that can cause cellulite, such as genetics, fad dieting or a change in your metabolism. So even if you’re the healthiest, fittest version of yourself, there’s still no guarantee you won’t end up with it. And the same goes with getting rid of cellulite – there’s no instant cure, but there are plenty of options to help you smooth out this pesky imperfection.

Solutions:

DIY at home

Dry body brushing is one of the best DIY treatments for cellulite, as it works to increase blood circulation, smooth the skin and evenly distribute fat deposits. For the best results, use a brush with natural bristles in circular movements towards the heart. As for at-home ingredients, the caffeine in coffee grounds has a tightening effect on the skin, making it ideal for homemade cellulite scrubs.

Products for cellulite

Top tip: Dermatologist Dr Ariel Haus recommends applying cellulite products after exercise so they absorb better: “It will help to activate the cellulite-fighting ingredients.”

Professional treatment for cellulite

Ella Baché Thermal Mud Body Treatment Mask, which is enriched with cocoa powder and caffeine to stimulate blood circulation and smooth the appearance of cellulite.

DARK HAIR

If you love the cooler months purely for the fact that you don’t have to shave your dark underarm hair every day, imagine how good life would be if you never had to do it again? No matter if it’s on your legs, bikini line or face, dark hair can be a downer, especially if you have light skin. But gone are the days of daily hair removal – the beauty industry has come a long way, and there are plenty of ways to get longer lasting results.

Solutions:

DIY at home

IPL (intense pulsed light) devices target the hair follicle, causing the hair to fall out – and they can be safely used at home. With continued use, they can halt the growth process of your hair, meaning you can go up to months without seeing a single hair. The catch? Those with light skin and dark hair are the best candidates and it may not work so well for others.

Products for hair removal

Professional hair removal

Arion Laser Hair Removal at R ejuvenation Clinics of Australia, with treatments every four to six weeks apart. Alternatively, Laser Clinics Australia also offers laser hair removal. There are over 40 locations across Australia – find your nearest one here.

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DRY, LACKLUSTRE SKIN

If you’ve been neglecting the skin on your body, it’ll take a little time to restore it and bring back that healthy glow we all know and love. Even if you don’t suffer from dryness, itchiness or flaking, your skin may still be craving some love and conditioning. Committing to a good body routine now will get your skin radiant and glowing from top to toe in no time.

Solutions:

DIY at home

Start by amping up your exfoliation routine: dry body brush daily and use an exfoliating scrub once or twice a week. Exfoliating will make any lotions and oils you apply afterwards to absorb deeper into the skin for long-lasting hydration. For bonus beauty points, take a few minutes to really massage these products in to stimulate blood circulation.