Do stretch marks go away on their own?

How long do stretch marks take to fade?

Expect gradual fading rather than a fixed deadline. New marks usually start darker, then become lighter as they age. Older marks can also become slightly sunken and develop a more wrinkled surface. Less colour does not necessarily mean the skin's texture will return to how it looked before.25

Do red stretch marks fade?

Yes. Pink, red or purple stretch marks gradually lose their colour and can become silver or white. Stretch marks can also appear brown or black. If you want treatment, new marks are generally easier to treat than older ones, so speak to a dermatologist while they are still new rather than waiting for them to turn white.156

Do white stretch marks fade?

White or silver marks are usually older stretch marks that have already faded. They can become less prominent, but complete disappearance is not a realistic treatment goal. Older breast stretch marks are particularly difficult to treat and can require several sessions and a combination of treatments. Cosmetic treatment aims for less noticeable marks, not erasure, so 'removal' is doing some generous paperwork.25

Can you prevent stretch marks?

Not reliably. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding sudden weight changes where possible can reduce your chance of developing them. Family history also affects your likelihood of getting stretch marks. Many creams promise to prevent or remove stretch marks despite very little evidence they work, which is a lot of ambition for a lotion.12

Cocoa butter can moisturize skin, but it has not been shown to prevent stretch marks or reduce their appearance. Coconut oil, olive oil and shea butter are not effective stretch mark treatments either. Moisturizing and removing a scar are different jobs, however convenient it would be to put both on one jar.4

What can help if you want treatment?

Tretinoin, a prescription retinoid related to vitamin A, or hyaluronic acid can help improve new stretch marks. Retinol can also make marks less noticeable. For retinol, follow the product directions, test a small area first and start slowly at bedtime. General retinol precautions include using sunscreen and watching for dryness, redness, itching or burning. Sensitive skin needs particular care. Do not use retinoid creams during pregnancy; check with your doctor before starting treatment while breastfeeding.256

A dermatologist can discuss laser treatment, microdermabrasion or microneedling. Microneedling uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen production. Improvement develops gradually, with full results generally taking several months; more than one session can be needed. Home microneedling can cause infection, scarring or colour changes. Lasers can also cause discolouration in darker skin tones.147

Microneedling is unsuitable for people who heal poorly, have a history of raised scars called keloids or have a weakened immune system. Treatment must wait if you have an active skin infection or sunburn. Tell the dermatologist if you take isotretinoin: at least one month must pass after your last pill before microneedling.7

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a GP appointment if large stretch marks appear alongside increased fat on your chest and tummy with slim arms and legs, fat around the back of your neck and shoulders, or a red, puffy, rounded face. These can be signs of Cushing's syndrome, a condition involving too much of the hormone cortisol.15