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 overloaded during rapid stretching. 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 directly affect body image.
A good medical overview of how they form and how they are classified can be found on DermNet. DermNet: Stretch marks
Why stretch marks are so common in pregnancy
During pregnancy the skin stretches over months, sometimes very quickly. At the same time hormones change the properties of connective tissue. How elastic the skin is is strongly genetically determined.
This is the part many underestimate: it’s not only a question of care or discipline. Stretch marks can form even with very good skin care, and some people get very few despite significant stretching.
The NHS describes 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 inflammation signals are visible.
Over time many marks fade and become lighter. They then tend to look silvery, whitish or like fine lines in the tissue. That does not mean they are gone, but often they become much less noticeable.
What the stage tells you
- Fresh, reddish marks usually change more quickly than old, pale marks
- Over time the issue often becomes less visible, even without intensive treatment
- Treatments generally aim to reduce contrast faster, 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 usually only be changed to a limited extent.
That does not mean you can’t do anything. The best measures soothe the skin, reduce itch and avoid increasing the contrast in the long term.
Helpful measures for everyday care
- Gentle moisturisers that support the skin barrier, especially for dryness and itching
- Sunscreen, because sun can make contrasts more noticeable
- Mild showering and avoiding harsh products if the skin is sensitive
- Patience with the course, because fading often takes months
What often disappoints
- Expensive creams that promise to remove stretch marks
- Before-and-after photos taken with different lighting and timing
- Too much friction and strong scrubs 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 are a major concern, dermatology can be an option. The goal is usually to improve visibility rather than to remove marks completely. Success depends a lot on the age of the marks, your skin type and the method used.
Common procedures include laser treatments to reduce redness, microneedling to stimulate collagen, or certain topical agents. Some agents have restrictions during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so professional advice is important.
The American Academy of Dermatology sets out treatments and expectations clearly. AAD: Stretch marks
If you prefer a medical summary of striae, the NCBI overview is a solid resource. NCBI Bookshelf: Striae distensae
Stretch marks and body image: why comparison has such an impact
Stretch marks are visible, but often the real issue is the feeling that the body no longer belongs to you. In the postnatal period and the first months the nervous system is generally more sensitive, and comparison pressure hits particularly hard.
Social media often shows exceptions, not the norm. Lighting, pose, filters, timing and background support are rarely visible. A body two months after birth is not a fair comparison with images taken a year later.
A helpful reality check
- How do I feel after consuming this content — calmer or worse?
- Which time after birth is being shown and which is left out?
- What would be a fair standard for my body right now?
The tummy often stays softer for longer and that’s not automatically a problem
Many associate stretch marks with a tummy that remains soft. Both can happen at the same time but do not have to share the same cause. Skin, connective tissue and the abdominal wall change at different rates.
If you feel more fluctuating in the first months, that is normal. Body image is not only appearance. Sleep, pain, breastfeeding, stress and daily life are major factors you cannot fully optimise away.
When assessment is advisable
Stretch marks are usually a normal sign of pregnancy. Assessment may be sensible if changes occur very suddenly, are unusually wide and dark, or if additional symptoms such as severe bruising, muscle loss or corticosteroid use are relevant.
Also seek review if the skin itches strongly, burns or appears inflamed, so you don’t mistake an eczema or irritation for a normal postnatal issue.
Conclusion
Stretch marks after pregnancy are common, usually harmless and often change visibly over months. Care can soothe, sunscreen can reduce contrast, and dermatological procedures can improve appearance in some cases. Rarely do promises of complete removal work.
Most important is a realistic expectation: your body does not need to look exactly as before to be healthy. If stretch marks cause significant mental distress, that is a valid reason to seek support, just like for physical symptoms.
