Stretch marks during puberty

Height, muscle, breast, hip, or body-fat changes can happen quickly during puberty. This may create linear marks called striae distensae on the back, shoulders, thighs, hips, breasts, buttocks, or abdomen. New marks may be colourful or itchy; older marks may look pale or slightly indented. They are not a sign of poor hygiene.

Use gentle moisturiser for dryness, avoid scratching, and choose breathable clothing if friction bothers the area. Creams cannot reliably remove established marks. A dermatologist can discuss microneedling, fractional laser treatment, RF microneedling, or carboxytherapy when appropriate for age, skin, and development.

Seek assessment if marks appear suddenly without growth or body change, spread widely, or occur with easy bruising, weakness, unusual weight change, or prolonged steroid use. Pain, warmth, swelling, or a separate rash should also be checked.

Ask whether the marks fit growth changes, whether medicine contributes, and which option suits your age and skin tone.