What should you know about dark stretch marks during pregnancy?

As the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, or thighs expand, deeper supporting fibers can stretch and produce linear marks. Pregnancy hormones may make new marks look red, purple, brown, or darker than the surrounding skin. They may itch or feel slightly raised, but they are not caused by poor hygiene and are not a sign that you have done something wrong.

The marks can become paler and flatter with time, though some lines remain visible. Darkening can be more noticeable in richly pigmented skin and may vary across body areas.

Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer when the skin feels dry, wear comfortable clothing, and keep nails short if itching leads to scratching. Avoid starting prescription creams, strong peels, or energy-based procedures without checking with your maternity clinician. Cosmetic treatment is generally considered after pregnancy and breastfeeding plans are discussed; later options can include Microneedling, Fractional Laser Treatment, RF Microneedling, or Carboxytherapy.

Tell your maternity clinician about severe or widespread itching, especially if it affects the palms or soles, disturbs sleep, or occurs without a visible rash. Seek assessment for painful, hot, swollen, blistered, or oozing skin. A sudden extensive change with easy bruising or other new symptoms also deserves medical review rather than being assumed to be stretch marks.

Ask which moisturizers or anti-itch measures fit your pregnancy, whether any product ingredients should be avoided, and when cosmetic procedures could be considered after delivery. Ask how breastfeeding, skin tone, and the marks’ age may affect treatment choices.