Nearly everyone knows someone with stretch marks—or has them themselves. Yet many people don’t understand what causes the scar-like lines to appear or whether there’s anything they can do to prevent or treat them.
Stretch marks develop when the skin stretches faster than the collagen and elastin fibers beneath it can adapt. Those fibers tear, leaving behind narrow scars that may begin as red, purple, bluish or dark brown streaks before gradually fading to lighter, silvery lines.
While anyone can develop stretch marks, the condition may be especially common among Black women because they are disproportionately affected by obesity, one of the leading risk factors. Pregnancy is another major cause, but rapid weight gain, adolescent growth spurts, bodybuilding and even significant weight loss can all trigger stretch marks.
Unlike keloids—a type of raised scar that occurs more often in African Americans because of genetic differences in how the skin heals—stretch marks are not believed to be more common because of skin biology alone. Instead, experts point to the conditions that cause the skin to stretch rapidly. On darker skin, stretch marks can also be more noticeable when they first appear.
The good news is that stretch marks are harmless. They aren’t contagious, don’t cause medical problems and usually become less noticeable with time. Most begin fading within six to 12 months after the skin stops stretching, although they rarely disappear completely.
Dermatologists say the best time to treat stretch marks is while they are still new. Once they have faded to white or silver, they become more difficult to improve.
Treatment options include laser skin resurfacing, microneedling, dermabrasion and prescription or over-the-counter creams containing retinol. These treatments won’t erase stretch marks, but they can improve their appearance, especially when started early.
Consumers should be cautious about products that promise miracle results. Despite their popularity, studies have found little evidence that cocoa butter, coconut oil or olive oil prevent or remove stretch marks. Some research suggests products containing aloe vera, hyaluronic acid or Centella asiatica may offer modest improvement, but results vary from person to person.
Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent stretch marks, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding rapid weight gain or repeated “yo-yo” dieting, staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins can help support healthy skin. Regular exercise also promotes collagen production, which helps keep skin resilient.
For many people, stretch marks are simply a sign that the body has changed—whether from pregnancy, growing up, building muscle or gaining weight. While treatments can improve their appearance, experts say the most important thing to remember is that stretch marks are common, they often fade with time and they are nothing to be ashamed of.