What should you know about tiger stretch marks?
Short answer
Tiger stretch marks usually describe prominent, striped striae caused by skin stretching, and they are not dangerous by appearance alone.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Common term
- A descriptive name for prominent, striped stretch marks
- Typical areas
- Abdomen, hips, thighs, breasts, buttocks, or upper arms
- Care focus
- Moisturise for comfort and avoid tanning the area
What the term means
Tiger stretch marks is an informal description of lines that run in grouped, contrasting bands. Stretch marks form when the deeper support layer of skin changes during rapid growth, pregnancy, muscle gain, or changes in body size. Early marks may look pink, red, purple, or darker than nearby skin; older ones often become lighter and slightly indented. Their visibility can vary with skin tone and lighting.
What you can do
Moisturiser can reduce dryness and itch but does not rebuild the deeper skin structure. Avoid harsh scrubbing and protect exposed areas from sun, since tanning can make contrast more noticeable. If appearance is troubling you, a dermatologist can assess the mark's age, colour, and texture. Possible cosmetic approaches include [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/). Treatment choice depends on skin type, body site, pregnancy status, and healing history.
When to seek care
Book a medical review if marks appear suddenly without an obvious growth or body change, spread quickly, or occur with easy bruising, muscle weakness, or other new symptoms. A clinician should also assess marks that are intensely itchy, painful, inflamed, or associated with a medicine that can affect the skin.
Questions for your doctor
Are these stretch marks or another skin change? Which option suits my skin tone and the mark's stage? What temporary redness or darkening might follow treatment? Should I postpone treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Are tiger stretch marks a separate condition?
No. The phrase usually refers to the visible pattern of ordinary stretch marks, also called striae.
Can treatment erase them completely?
Treatments may soften colour, texture, or contrast, but results vary and the marks may remain partly visible.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.