What should you know about stretch mark care?

Stretch marks are changes in the deeper skin layers after stretching, often during growth, pregnancy, or body-size change. Daily care can make nearby skin feel more supple and reduce itch or friction, but it does not rebuild every altered fibre. Newer marks may look pink, red, purple, or darker; older marks often become lighter and less inflamed. Their stage helps a clinician select and explain cosmetic options.

Use a gentle cleanser, apply a fragrance-free moisturiser to intact skin, and avoid aggressive rubbing or unregulated whitening products. Protect exposed areas from sun so colour contrast is less noticeable. If you want more change, ask a dermatologist about Microneedling, Fractional Laser Treatment, RF Microneedling, or Carboxytherapy, including likely downtime and whether your skin type needs extra pigment-change precautions.

Arrange a review for sudden, widespread marks without a clear explanation, especially with easy bruising, weakness, or other hormonal symptoms. Promptly seek care for pain, warmth, swelling, discharge, or a rapidly expanding rash. A clinician can distinguish a stretch mark from dermatitis, infection, or another skin condition.

Ask whether your marks are still changing, which routine is least irritating, and which procedure matches their age, colour, and location. Discuss pregnancy plans, breastfeeding, previous scars, pigment changes, and all topical medicines.