Stretch marks (striae) are small, discolored streaks that develop on the skin after it has been stretched. They commonly happen during puberty, after rapid weight changes, or during pregnancy.
Many stretch marks fade over time, but they will not disappear completely. Treatment options can potentially help stretch marks become less noticeable by hydrating the skin, promoting healing, and evening out the skin tone.
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Natural Remedies for Stretch Marks
There's no miracle cure for stretch marks. However, some potential natural remedies may help even out skin tone and make stretch marks less noticeable, especially if treated soon after they've developed.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A (retinol) may be a beneficial topical therapy for stretch marks in their early (or inflammatory) phase. It works by helping speed up skin cell turnover and collagen production.
While vitamin A is naturally found in foods, it's also available in over-the-counter (OTC) topical products for stretch mark purposes. Experts recommend a product that combines vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acid (AHA).
People who are pregnant should not use retinol to avoid any risks to the baby.
Vitamin C
Because vitamin C is known for its role in collagen development, it may also help treat stretch marks. Found in fruits and vegetables, vitamin C in topical OTC format may be combined with AHAs like glycolic and lactic acids, which may encourage skin exfoliation.
Hyaluronic Acid
Research has suggested that products with hyaluronic acid might help prevent the formation of stretch marks. This compound is found naturally in the skin, connective tissue, joints, and eyes.
Hyaluronic acid can be used to treat stretch marks. It should be applied as soon as they appear or to areas that may be prone to development.
Centella
An herb known as gotu kola (Centella asiatica) may also help prevent stretch marks. Studies suggest that it might be more effective than a placebo topical treatment. While more research is needed, experts say this ingredient may be worth trying with hyaluronic acid.
Sugar
While research is limited around sugar as a stretch mark remedy, this ingredient has been traditionally used as a natural exfoliator. Sugar's tiny crystals can help gently remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother complexion.
It may work similarly to microdermabrasion, a medical procedure that exfoliates the skin and potentially treats stretch marks, though more research is needed on this natural tactic.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural skin treatment for burns, wounds, and allergic reactions. Its skin-healing properties may also help with stretch marks.
Some research shows that applying the ingredient from aloe leaves to the skin not only soothes and moisturizes it but can also help repair it, leading to stretch mark prevention and fading.
Coconut Oil
Research on coconut oil shows that this ingredient supports the skin's natural protective barrier, improves dry skin, and repairs certain skin infections and wounds.
While there isn't much evidence for the efficacy of coconut oil as a stretch mark treatment, using it to massage areas of the skin where stretch marks are likely could help improve overall skin tone. This may make stretch marks less noticeable and possibly prevent new ones from forming.
If you're trying any OTC or natural products to help improve skin and potentially stretch marks, experts recommend these tips:
- Start early: Older stretch marks seem less likely to respond to treatment.
- Use a massage technique: Taking time for the product to soak in may make it more effective.
- Apply consistently: Using a product daily may still take weeks for potential results.
Medical Treatments for Stretch Marks
Some medical treatments that a healthcare provider can offer may help make stretch marks less noticeable, but they won't get rid of them completely.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a noninvasive tactic that uses light energy to help repair damaged skin cells and regenerate new skin cell growth. The exact type of laser used may depend on skin color, stretch mark appearance, and desired outcome.
Research shows that PDL (pulse dye laser) may help new stretch marks in the early, red, inflammatory phase. IPL laser may be used on white or lightened stretch marks to help boost collagen production in the surrounding skin.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is one of the least invasive procedures for stretch marks. It uses a tool to gently exfoliate the skin to encourage skin cell turnover and promote healing. This procedure can make the skin appear brighter, smoother, and more even.
A healthcare provider may use this tactic and a chemical peel to tag team exfoliation.
Microneedling
Microneedling, which involves rolling a tool with tiny needles across the face to stimulate skin healing, may also benefit stretch marks. Because it helps fade various types of scars, research suggests that microneedling may also improve the appearance of stretch marks by evening out skin pigmentation (coloration).
Radiofrequency Therapy
Radiofrequency is a procedure that uses a device beaming electric currents to heat up the tissue beneath the skin. This prompts the development of collagen and eventual skin renewal. One study found that a series of radiofrequency treatments visibly reduced the size and appearance of stretch marks, but more long-term research is needed.
Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is a treatment that safely uses chemical acids to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This tactic may help various skin issues, including fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone, and sometimes stretch marks.
Specifically, the trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel may be combined with another treatment option like microdermabrasion to promote new, visibly renewed skin in stretch mark areas.
Tretinoin
Studies show that topical prescription retinol, known as tretinoin, can fade newer stretch marks and make them less noticeable.To get the best results, it's recommended to apply the cream every night for several months.
A Word From Verywell
When stretch marks are new, they appear reddish, brown, or various dark colors. This is when they are most susceptible to treatment. They will fade and become paler with time. If they are problematic, it is worth consulting a dermatologist.
— WILLIAM TRUSWELL, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
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Who Gets Stretch Marks, and Why?
Anyone can get stretch marks, but some may be more likely to develop them. Because they are a result of rapid skin stretching, this can happen during:
- Periods of weight gain
- Pregnancy
- Puberty
Certain health conditions like Cushing's syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may also increase the risk of developing stretch marks.
In addition, data suggest that females are more likely to get stretch marks on the breasts, while males may more often experience stretch marks in areas like the lower back or upper arms.
What's the Outlook?
Stretch marks won't disappear completely, but they may fade in appearance.
A healthcare provider can advise which treatment (or combination of treatments) would be best for your skin based on factors like age, health status, and how long the stretch marks have been present. Research shows that most stretch mark treatments are more effective when used early in development.
Keep in mind that there are no one-size-fits-all treatments. What works for one person may differ from your most effective treatment.
Summary
Stretch marks are discolored skin lines or stripes that commonly develop as the skin stretches during rapid weight gain. While there's no cure for stretch marks, some may fade over time.
Various natural and medical treatment options are available to help lessen their appearance. Research suggests that prescription retinol tretinoin and laser treatments may be among the most effective treatments. A healthcare provider can help determine which therapies are suitable for you.
