What should you know about growing stretch marks?

Stretch marks, also called striae, form when the deeper supporting layer of skin is stretched faster than it can adapt. They may occur during pregnancy, puberty, muscle gain, or changes in body size. New marks can look pink, red, purple, or darker than nearby skin; older marks usually become paler and slightly indented.

More marks may appear while the underlying change continues. They are not contagious and do not mean the skin is dirty or damaged by poor care. A clinician can consider the timing, distribution, medicines, and other symptoms before deciding whether the pattern is typical.

Moisturiser can reduce dryness and itch, although it does not rebuild the deeper skin structure. Avoid scratching and use sun protection because tanning can make colour differences more noticeable. If the marks are new, photograph them periodically in similar lighting so changes are easier to describe.

For established marks, a dermatology consultation may discuss [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/), [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/), [RF Microneedling](/treatments/laser-and-energy/rf-microneedling/), or [Carboxytherapy](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/carboxytherapy/). Choice depends on skin tone, mark stage, location, pregnancy status, and tolerance for downtime; improvement is usually gradual rather than immediate.

Book a medical review if marks appear rapidly over many areas without a clear change in body size, or if they accompany unusual bruising, muscle weakness, marked facial changes, or other new symptoms. Mention any steroid tablets, injections, creams, or inhalers, because prolonged or strong steroid exposure can affect skin structure. Seek urgent care for severe weakness or sudden illness rather than treating the marks as a cosmetic concern.

Ask: Do these marks fit ordinary stretching? Could a medicine or hormone problem be contributing? Are they still in an active stage? Which treatment suits my skin tone, and what temporary redness, pigment change, or downtime should I expect?