Guide | Understanding Stretch Marks: Dermatologists Explain Their Causes and Management
Pregnancy changes schedules, sleep, and personal freedom, and it may also leave a visible mark on the body: stretch marks. For many women, these lines are simply part of the journey of having a baby.
"My abdomen became tight and itchy during pregnancy, and then the lines appeared," recalled Maggie Shaw, a 38-year-old mother in San Francisco. "They became more noticeable after my second pregnancy."
What causes stretch marks?
When the body grows faster than the skin can expand, elastic fibers in the lower layers of skin may tear, creating stretch marks.
"Women gain about 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) on average during pregnancy," said Dr. Heidi Waldorf, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. Fast-growing areas such as the abdomen and breasts are most susceptible, although the buttocks, thighs, and upper arms may also be affected.
The marks are usually red or purple at first, then gradually fade to pale white or gray lines after delivery.
Dermatologist Dr. Mary Lupo, clinical professor at Tulane University School of Medicine, recommends limiting total pregnancy weight gain to 25–35 pounds (11.3–15.9 kilograms). She emphasizes that gradual, steady gain is less likely to cause stretch marks than rapid gain.
In other words, the pace of weight gain matters as much as the total amount.
Who is more likely to develop stretch marks?
They are extremely common. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that about 90% of women develop stretch marks in the second or third trimester, generally after the sixth or seventh month.
Genetics also matter: If your mother developed stretch marks during pregnancy, you are more likely to develop them too.
Skin tone affects their color. Marks tend to look pink on lighter skin and lighter than the surrounding skin on darker skin.
Can they be prevented? Experts say it is difficult
No product has been shown to prevent stretch marks. Dermatologists advise skepticism toward creams or serums claiming to eliminate the risk.
"Moisturizing is still helpful. It can reduce itching and tightness and make skin look smoother and healthier," said Dr. Lupo.
Dr. Anne Chapas, clinical instructor in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center, added that drinking enough water also helps maintain skin elasticity.
Focus on reducing their appearance
Some stretch marks naturally fade into fine silver-white lines, while others remain darker.
Dr. Waldorf says the best time for treatment is while the marks are still red or purple. A topical gel containing onion extract and hyaluronic acid may help fade them; one study found that some users noticed improvement after 12 weeks.
Prescription retinoid creams can increase cell turnover and collagen production, improving appearance. They must not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Other cosmetic options include:
Laser treatment: Stimulates collagen and reduces blood vessels to improve texture, sometimes over multiple sessions.
Dermabrasion: Uses mild exfoliation to promote skin repair, with relatively modest results.
Accepting the marks is also an option
Not every mother chooses treatment. Maggie Shaw decided to accept hers: "I know there is no magic way to make them disappear, so I consider them part of my new mother's body—new curves, a new shape, and new skin."
Guide | Understanding Stretch Marks: Dermatologists Explain Their Causes and Management
Guide | Understanding Stretch Marks: Dermatologists Explain Their Causes and Management
Pregnancy changes schedules, sleep, and personal freedom, and it may also leave a visible mark on the body: stretch marks. For many women, these lines are simply part of the journey of having a baby.
"My abdomen became tight and itchy during pregnancy, and then the lines appeared," recalled Maggie Shaw, a 38-year-old mother in San Francisco. "They became more noticeable after my second pregnancy."
What causes stretch marks?
When the body grows faster than the skin can expand, elastic fibers in the lower layers of skin may tear, creating stretch marks.
"Women gain about 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) on average during pregnancy," said Dr. Heidi Waldorf, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. Fast-growing areas such as the abdomen and breasts are most susceptible, although the buttocks, thighs, and upper arms may also be affected.
The marks are usually red or purple at first, then gradually fade to pale white or gray lines after delivery.
Dermatologist Dr. Mary Lupo, clinical professor at Tulane University School of Medicine, recommends limiting total pregnancy weight gain to 25–35 pounds (11.3–15.9 kilograms). She emphasizes that gradual, steady gain is less likely to cause stretch marks than rapid gain.
In other words, the pace of weight gain matters as much as the total amount.
Who is more likely to develop stretch marks?
They are extremely common. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that about 90% of women develop stretch marks in the second or third trimester, generally after the sixth or seventh month.
Genetics also matter: If your mother developed stretch marks during pregnancy, you are more likely to develop them too.
Skin tone affects their color. Marks tend to look pink on lighter skin and lighter than the surrounding skin on darker skin.
Can they be prevented? Experts say it is difficult
No product has been shown to prevent stretch marks. Dermatologists advise skepticism toward creams or serums claiming to eliminate the risk.
"Moisturizing is still helpful. It can reduce itching and tightness and make skin look smoother and healthier," said Dr. Lupo.
Dr. Anne Chapas, clinical instructor in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center, added that drinking enough water also helps maintain skin elasticity.
Focus on reducing their appearance
Some stretch marks naturally fade into fine silver-white lines, while others remain darker.
Dr. Waldorf says the best time for treatment is while the marks are still red or purple. A topical gel containing onion extract and hyaluronic acid may help fade them; one study found that some users noticed improvement after 12 weeks.
Prescription retinoid creams can increase cell turnover and collagen production, improving appearance. They must not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Other cosmetic options include:
Laser treatment: Stimulates collagen and reduces blood vessels to improve texture, sometimes over multiple sessions.
Dermabrasion: Uses mild exfoliation to promote skin repair, with relatively modest results.
Accepting the marks is also an option
Not every mother chooses treatment. Maggie Shaw decided to accept hers: "I know there is no magic way to make them disappear, so I consider them part of my new mother's body—new curves, a new shape, and new skin."
Source:
Collected online