How to Get Rid of the Linea Nigra

Pregnancy changes the body in many different ways and one change is the appearance of the 'linea nigra', also known as the 'pregnancy line'. The linea nigra appears between the belly button and the pubic region and is a completely normal phenomenon, and sometimes goes up till the rib cage as well. Usually, the line becomes more prominent between the 22 and 25 weeks of pregnancy, though has been there on your belly always, and pre pregnancy it is called the linea alba.

This dark vertical line is caused by the raging hormones during pregnancy. Along with the linea nigra, some women also experience darker nipples during the period of gestation. The linea nigra starts to fade six weeks postpartum, however for some women it may take up to six months or more. It is not harmful in anyway and take its natural due course to disappear.

If you feel uncomfortable with its appearance, the linea nigra can be made lighter with a few home remedies. Though it is always better to be confident about your body and celebrate the course of child birth with pride and confidence. The linea nigra does go away eventually even if you do not try any home remedy, but here are a few tips and tricks to help you make it fade faster:

Lemon-Honey-Sugar

Known as one of the best exfoliating scrubs, a mixture of lemon, honey and sugar works wonders for your skin. Mix together a teaspoon of honey and sugar each with half a lemon and gently scrub it on the linea nigra. Leave it on for 15 minutes and wash off gently. It will begin to fade in a couple of days.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa Butter becomes a woman's best friend during pregnancy as it is best known to prevent stretch marks and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It helps keeps the skin moisturized and keeps the skin soft and supple. Cocoa Butter also helps in reducing the linea nigra, though it may take some time, and has a gentle and pleasant scent too.

Vitamin E Oil

100% pure Vitamin E oil is an effective remedy for soothing the skin, lightening pigmentation and moisturizing the skin. If you can get your hands on some pure Vitamin E oil or gel capsules, they are effective in helping the linea nigra to fade. Apply and rub into the linea nigra at night, and you will see a difference in some days.

Nutgrass Root Extract

Extrapone nutgrass root extract is known for its skin lightening properties. It helps gets rid of age spots and discoloration, and is known to help in the case of linea nigra too. This topical oil can be applied on it own, or can be added to Vitamin E oil for added benefits.