Stretch Marks: Why They Appear and What Actually Helps
Your skin's story, cared for kindly.
Stretch marks are one of the most common skin changes there is. They appear during pregnancy, growth spurts, weight changes and muscle building, and they show up on almost every skin type.
- What are stretch marks, and why do they form?
- Can you prevent them?
- Which creams and oils actually help?
- What is safe during pregnancy?
Let's look at what dermatologists say.
1. What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks (striae) are a type of scar that forms when skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The collagen and elastic fibres in the middle layer of the skin are disrupted, and the skin heals with a visible line.
They are harmless and don't need treatment for health reasons.
The takeaway: Stretch marks are a normal skin response to rapid change, not a sign of poor care.
2. Early vs mature stretch marks
| Stage | What they look like | How they respond |
|---|---|---|
| Early | Red, purple, pink or dark brown, depending on skin tone; may feel raised and itchy | Respond best to treatment |
| Mature | White or silvery, flat or slightly sunken | Harder to treat; may need procedures |
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), stretch marks fade with time, but treatment may make them less noticeable sooner.
The takeaway: The earlier you start, the better your chances.
3. What causes them?
- Pregnancy, especially in the later months.
- Growth spurts during puberty.
- Rapid weight gain or loss.
- Fast muscle growth, for example from bodybuilding.
- Long-term use of corticosteroid creams or tablets.
- Some medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome.
Genetics also play a role: if close family members have them, you may be more likely to get them.
The takeaway: Rapid stretching plus your genes decide who gets them.
4. What does the evidence support?
| Option | What the evidence shows |
|---|---|
| Tretinoin (prescription) | May make early stretch marks less noticeable; not for use in pregnancy |
| Hyaluronic acid | Studies suggest it may make early stretch marks less noticeable |
| Retinol | May help fade early marks; avoid in pregnancy |
| Centella | Products with centella may help prevent stretch marks |
| Cocoa butter, olive oil, almond oil | Popular and moisturising, but studies haven't shown they prevent or remove stretch marks |
| Self-tanner | Can camouflage marks; doesn't remove them |
The AAD also notes that massaging a product gently into the skin may make it more effective, and that treatment has little effect on mature marks.
The takeaway: Hyaluronic acid, retinoids and centella have the most support, mainly for early marks.
5. What about oils and moisturisers?
Body oils and rich moisturisers can relieve the itch and dryness that often come with stretching skin, and many people enjoy the ritual of massaging them in.
Just keep expectations realistic: keeping skin moisturised is good for comfort, but no oil has been proven to prevent stretch marks on its own. Read more in our winter body care guide.
The takeaway: Oils feel good and soothe itch, but they're not a guaranteed fix.
6. Stretch marks during pregnancy
Many stretch mark products contain retinoids, which should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Safer habits during pregnancy include:
- Moisturising the belly, hips, thighs and breasts daily.
- Gently massaging products into the skin.
- Choosing products with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or centella, after checking with your doctor.
- Gaining weight gradually, as advised by your doctor.
See also our guide to pregnancy vitamins.
The takeaway: In pregnancy, skip retinoids and focus on gentle, consistent care.
7. Common myths
- "Expensive creams erase stretch marks." Many products don't seem to work at all, according to the AAD.
- "Only women get stretch marks." Men get them too, especially during growth spurts and muscle building.
- "Tanning hides them." Tanning can make stretch marks more noticeable.
- "Mature stretch marks can be fully removed." Treatment can improve them, but they rarely disappear completely.
The takeaway: Fading is realistic; erasing is not.
8. Stretch marks in Saudi Arabia: why this matters
Pregnancy, weight changes and a growing gym culture make stretch marks a common concern. Long hours in air-conditioned spaces can also leave skin drier, which can add to itching.
Choose products registered with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), and check with your doctor before using any active ingredient during pregnancy.
The takeaway: Gentle daily care and the right timing matter more than the price tag.
9. How to choose a stretch mark product: six questions
- Are my marks early (red/purple) or mature (white)?
- Does it contain an ingredient with evidence, such as hyaluronic acid, centella or a retinoid?
- Am I pregnant or breastfeeding? (If so, avoid retinoids.)
- Will I use it every day and massage it in?
- Does it suit my skin and not cause irritation?
- Is it registered with the SFDA?
The takeaway: The best product is one with evidence that you'll use consistently.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prevent stretch marks completely?
Not always. Genetics play a big role, but early care and gradual weight changes may help.
How long until I see results?
The AAD notes that one study saw results after 24 weeks of nightly tretinoin. Patience is key.
Do stretch marks go away on their own?
They fade over time, usually becoming lighter and less noticeable.
When should I see a dermatologist?
If stretch marks appear suddenly without a clear reason, cover large areas, or you want procedures such as laser or microneedling.
Is Bio-Oil good for stretch marks?
Many people like it for moisturising and massaging. Explore Bio-Oil and Palmer's at Avnzor.
The Avnzor takeaway
Stretch marks are normal and harmless. If you want them to fade, start early, use ingredients with evidence, massage products in, and be patient. During pregnancy, choose gentle, retinoid-free care.
At Avnzor, we believe every stage of your body deserves kind, evidence-based care.
Your skin's story, cared for kindly.
Explore body oils and body moisturisers from Avnzor.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology: Stretch marks, why they appear and how to get rid of them
- American Academy of Dermatology: Stretch marks
- NHS: Stretch marks
Disclaimer: This article is for general education and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor, dentist or pharmacist. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or treatment, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take regular medication. Doses and treatments for babies and children are set by a doctor.
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