What should you know about skin stretch marks?

They may appear during pregnancy, puberty, rapid weight change, or muscle growth. Some medicines and conditions that affect hormones or collagen can also contribute. Early marks may look pink, red, purple, or darker than nearby skin; older marks often become lighter and slightly indented. They can occur on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, or back. Stretch marks are not contagious and do not mean that the skin is dirty or poorly cared for.

Moisturiser can reduce dryness and itch but does not erase established marks. A dermatologist can assess the mark’s age, colour, skin tone, and location before discussing options. Treatments may include microneedling, fractional laser treatment, RF microneedling, or carboxytherapy; results vary and usually develop gradually. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, prone to raised scars, or using a retinoid. Do not apply prescription retinoids during pregnancy unless your maternity clinician specifically advises otherwise.

Arrange a medical review if marks appear suddenly without a clear stretch or growth trigger, cover a large area quickly, or occur with easy bruising, muscle weakness, facial rounding, or other hormone-related changes. Seek prompt care for severe pain, warmth, swelling, drainage, or rapidly worsening skin changes. A clinician can distinguish stretch marks from other rashes or skin thinning.

Ask which treatment fits the mark’s stage and your skin tone, how many sessions may be considered, what aftercare is needed, and how to reduce pigment changes or scarring.