Stretch Marks: What They Look Like (With Pictures) and What You Can Do About Them

Most people are familiar with stretch marks. These linear marks on the skin are usually associated with pregnancy, but anyone can get them after rapid weight changes.

Stretch marks (called striae distensae) aren’t harmful or dangerous, but some people are bothered by their appearance and find them distressing. Here, we’ll take a closer look at stretch marks, including what causes them, what they look like (with pictures), and what you can do about them (if they bother you).

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are small linear scars in the skin. They usually don’t cause any symptoms, but sometimes they can be itchy.  

Stretch marks can have different names, depending on their characteristics. Some examples include:

• Striae gravidarum (related to pregnancy)

• Striae rubrae (when appearing red)

• Striae albae (when appearing white)

• Striae caerulea (when appearing dark blue)

Some people may just notice a couple of stretch marks, while others can have dozens or more. Stretch marks may become less noticeable over time, but some treatments can help them fade more quickly. 

What do stretch marks look like?

Stretch marks can vary from person to person. They can be short and thin, or wide and long. Newly developing stretch marks may be raised above the skin. Stretch marks may appear in several colors, such as:

• Red

• Pink

• Purple

• Brown

• Black

They are usually darker when they first appear and then fade to lighter colors or turn silver or white.  

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As they develop, stretch marks often sink below the skin. They may feel wrinkled or crinkly to the touch and can also appear shiny or glossy.

Stretch marks look and feel different from the surrounding skin. Their texture and color depend on how long you’ve had them. 

Where do stretch marks usually appear?

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the skin, but they usually occur in groups on certain parts of the body, such as:

• Stomach

• Thighs

• Back

• Arms

• Groin

• Armpits

• Buttocks

Pictures of stretch marks

Here are some pictures of what stretch marks look like on different skin tones and different locations.

Early stretch marks can be bright red.

Pink stretch marks on the back.

Pregnancy-related stretch marks on the stomach.

Older stretch marks can be white.

Stretch marks on the shoulder.

Stretch marks on the inner thigh.

What causes stretch marks?

The exact cause of stretch marks isn’t known, but they often develop when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly from rapid weight gain or loss. This alters the collagen and elastin in the skin. These proteins help support and give structure to the skin. When they’re disrupted, it creates a stretch mark scar.

Other factors that can increase your risk of developing stretch marks include:

• Growth spurts associated with puberty

• Being female

• Pregnancy-related hormones

• Having a family history of stretch marks

• Using corticosteroids (like prednisone)

• Weight training that causes rapid muscle growth

How do you treat stretch marks?

Stretch marks are scars, so it’s not possible to get rid of them completely. But some treatments may help fade them and make them less noticeable. Keep in mind that many products claim to get rid of stretch marks, but research doesn’t always show that they work. 

Here are some treatment options that may actually help fade stretch marks.  

Topical creams

Tretinoin, a retinoid that’s related to vitamin A, can help make stretch marks smaller and less noticeable. It works best when higher concentrations are applied directly to the stretch marks and when they’re treated early. Keep in mind, tretinoin can sometimes cause redness and irritation. And it isn’t safe to use in pregnancy. 

There are also some home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) options that may help improve stretch marks. Options include:  

• Almond oil

• Centella asiatica (a plant extract)

• Hyaluronic acid

• Olive oil

• Vitamin E

Cosmetic procedures

Studies show that some cosmetic procedures done in the doctor’s office can help improve stretch marks. Here are some treatment options that may work:

• Chemical peels

• Lasers

• Microdermabrasion

• Microneedling

• Radiofrequency

• Platelet-rich plasma

• Photorejuvenation

For best results, it’s important to go to a dermatologist or other practitioner with experience using these treatments. It may take several treatments over weeks or months, and different treatments may be combined to maximize results.

Can you prevent stretch marks?

There’s no definitive proof that you can prevent stretch marks from forming. But limited research shows hyaluronic acid or Centella asiatica may help prevent stretch marks. Keep in mind that they have to be used consistently and may not work for everyone.  

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Written by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

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