What should you know about mild stretch marks?

Stretch marks form when skin stretches or changes size faster than its supporting fibres can adapt. They may start pink, red, purple, or darker than surrounding skin and later become lighter, silvery, or slightly indented. Common sites include the abdomen, hips, thighs, breasts, buttocks, and upper arms. Growth, pregnancy, weight change, muscle gain, and some medicines can contribute. They are not contagious and do not mean the skin is dirty or poorly cared for.

Moisturiser can reduce dryness and itch but does not rebuild stretched fibres. Use sunscreen on exposed areas so contrast is less noticeable, and avoid tanning that can make marks stand out. If the marks bother you, a dermatologist can discuss options based on their age, colour, depth, skin tone, and location. Procedures such as microneedling, fractional laser treatment, RF microneedling, or carboxytherapy may improve texture or colour for some people; several sessions may be needed and results vary. Ask about pigment changes and healing time.

Arrange an assessment if marks appear suddenly without an obvious stretch, cover extensive areas, bruise easily, or occur with muscle weakness, unusual facial changes, or prolonged steroid use. A clinician can check whether another skin or hormonal issue is contributing. Seek help sooner if the area is painful, inflamed, or persistently itchy.

Are these typical stretch marks or another type of scar? Which treatment suits their colour and texture? What improvement is realistic for my skin tone? How should I prepare, and what aftercare and pigment risks should I expect?