What stretch marks actually are
Stretch marks are not superficial scratches. They are fine lines that form when the middle layers of the skin are overstretched during rapid expansion. In dermatology they are called striae.
It is important to put them in context: stretch marks are common, harmless and primarily a visible sign of change. They can still be distressing because they affect body image directly.
A good medical overview of their development and classification can be found on DermNet. DermNet: Stretch marks
Why stretch marks are so common in pregnancy
During pregnancy the skin stretches over months, sometimes quite rapidly. At the same time, hormones alter the properties of connective tissue. How elastic the skin is in response is strongly influenced by genetics.
This is the part many underestimate: it isn’t only a question of care or discipline. Even with very good skincare, stretch marks can develop, and some people get few marks despite substantial stretching of the skin.
The NHS outlines causes and typical situations very clearly. NHS: Stretch marks
Red, purple, white: how stretch marks change over time
New stretch marks are often reddish, purple or darker than the surrounding skin. This is an early stage in which increased blood flow and inflammatory signals are visible.
Over time many marks fade and become lighter. They then appear more silvery, whitish or like fine lines in the tissue. That doesn’t mean they’re gone, but they often become noticeably less prominent.
What you can infer from the stage
- Fresh, reddish marks usually change faster than old, pale marks
- Over time the issue often becomes less visible, even without intensive treatment
- Treatments usually aim to reduce contrast more quickly, not to remove marks completely
What really helps and what are often just promises
Many want a clear solution, ideally a cream that reverses everything. That is not realistic. Stretch marks are a form of scarring in the skin, and scars can generally only be changed to a limited extent.
That said, there are things you can do. The most useful measures calm the skin, reduce itching and avoid increasing contrast over the long term.
Practical measures
- Gentle skincare that supports the skin barrier, especially for dryness and itching
- Sunscreen, because sun exposure can make contrast more noticeable
- Mild showering and avoiding harsh products if the skin is sensitive
- Patience with the course of healing, since fading often takes months
What disappoints many
- Expensive creams promising to remove stretch marks
- Before-and-after photos taken with different lighting and timing
- Excessive rubbing and peeling when the skin is already irritated
A Cochrane review found no high-quality evidence that certain topical preparations reliably prevent stretch marks in pregnancy. Cochrane: Topical preparations and stretch marks
Dermatological options after pregnancy
If stretch marks cause significant distress, dermatology can be an option. The goal is usually to improve appearance, not to achieve complete removal. Success depends greatly on the age of the marks, your skin type and the method used.
Typical procedures include laser treatments to reduce redness, microneedling to stimulate collagen, or certain topical agents. Some agents are restricted during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so these options should be discussed with a specialist.
The American Academy of Dermatology provides guidance on treatments and expectations. AAD: Stretch marks
If you prefer a medical summary on striae, the NCBI overview is a good resource. NCBI Bookshelf: Striae distensae
Stretch marks and body image: why comparison feels so strong
Stretch marks are visible, but often the real problem is the feeling that the body no longer belongs to you. In the postpartum period and the months after birth the nervous system is more sensitive, and comparison pressure hits particularly hard then.
Social media often shows exceptions, not the norm. Lighting, pose, filters, timing and behind-the-scenes support are rarely visible. Comparing your body two months after birth with images taken a year later is not a fair comparison.
A helpful reality check
- How do I feel after consuming this content — calmer or worse
- What time after birth is being shown and what is being left out
- What would be a fair standard for my body right now
The abdomen often stays softer for longer and that isn’t automatically a problem
Many associate stretch marks with a belly that remains soft. Both can occur in parallel, but they don’t have to have the same cause. Skin, connective tissue and the abdominal wall change at different rates.
If you feel more unstable in the first months, that is normal. Body perception isn’t only appearance. Sleep, pain, breastfeeding, stress and daily life are major factors you cannot fully optimise away.
When further assessment is advisable
Stretch marks are usually a normal sign of pregnancy. Further assessment may be useful if changes occur very suddenly, are unusually wide and dark, or if additional symptoms such as large bruises, muscle wasting or the use of corticosteroids are relevant.
Also seek evaluation if the skin itches intensely, burns or appears inflamed, so that an eczema or irritation is not mistaken for a normal postpartum issue.
Conclusion
Stretch marks after pregnancy are common, usually harmless and often change visibly over months. Skincare can soothe, sunscreen can reduce contrast, and dermatological procedures can improve appearance in some cases. Promises that marks will disappear completely are uncommon.
Most important is a realistic expectation: your body does not have to look like it did before to be healthy. If stretch marks are causing significant mental distress, that is a legitimate reason to seek support, just as with physical symptoms.
