I am now in my second trimester. encountered red scratches at my hip areas (upper part of my thighs) on each side. Is this normal and caused by stretch marks? Can I apply anything or just let it heal on its own?

They are stretch marks. Moisturizer lots - 3 times a day with anything u can use - but choose the thicker kind that are cream or oil - lotions not moisturizing enough. U can also exfoliate then moisturise. That said, stretch marks are hereditary somewhat so if ur mum or sisters have it, likely u will have it too