What Are Stretch Marks?
According to the Mayo Clinic, stretch marks are indented streaks on the skin. They are a type of scar. They form when the skin stretches quickly and the collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis break. New stretch marks are red, pink, or purple. They are called striae rubra. Over time, they fade to skin colour or white. They are then called striae alba. Stretch marks are common in pregnancy. They are also common in puberty, rapid weight gain or loss, and bodybuilding. They are not harmful.
Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), no cream, lotion, or oil has been proven to prevent stretch marks. Products with centella or hyaluronic acid may help, but the proof is weak. Many products claim to prevent them, but the evidence is weak. Keeping the skin moisturised is good for comfort, but it does not stop stretch marks. The main risk factors are rapid stretching of the skin, genetics, and hormones. A person cannot change their genes.
Treatments That May Help
According to the Mayo Clinic, some treatments can make stretch marks less noticeable, but no treatment removes them completely. Options include retinoid creams, laser therapy, and microneedling. According to the AAD, early treatment works better. New red stretch marks respond better than old white ones. Results vary from person to person. A dermatologist can advise on the best option. Some treatments are not safe during pregnancy. A pregnant woman should talk to a doctor before she uses any cream or treatment.
Healthy Weight Gain in Pregnancy
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), healthy weight gain during pregnancy depends on a woman’s weight before pregnancy. For a woman with a normal weight, the recommended gain is about 25 to 35 pounds. For a woman who is overweight, it is less. For a woman who is underweight, it is more. A doctor can give a personal target. Gaining weight within the recommended range helps the baby grow well. It also helps the mother recover after birth.
When to See a Doctor
According to the Mayo Clinic, stretch marks are harmless and do not need treatment. A person should see a doctor if the marks are very painful, if the skin shows signs of infection, or if they are worried about their appearance. A dermatologist can discuss treatment options. A pregnant woman should also talk to her doctor about any skin changes that worry her.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are stretch marks?
According to the Mayo Clinic, stretch marks are indented streaks on the skin. They are a type of scar that forms when the skin stretches quickly and the collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis break.
Can creams prevent stretch marks?
No. According to the AAD, no cream, lotion, or oil has been proven to prevent stretch marks. Keeping the skin moisturised is good for comfort, but it does not stop them.
Can stretch marks be removed?
No treatment removes them completely. According to the Mayo Clinic, retinoid creams, laser therapy, and microneedling can make them less noticeable. Early treatment works better.
How much weight should a pregnant woman gain?
According to ACOG, for a woman with a normal weight, the recommended gain is about 25 to 35 pounds. A doctor can give a personal target.
Are stretch marks harmful?
No. According to the Mayo Clinic, stretch marks are harmless and do not need treatment. See a doctor if the marks are very painful or show signs of infection.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from a doctor. This guide gives no medical advice for readers. Talk to a doctor or a dermatologist about any skin change that worries you, especially during pregnancy.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026