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Call them what you will – tiger stripes, mama scars, badges of courage, or even permanent lightning bolts – but [stretch marks](https://aedit.com/concern/stretch-marks) are a physical and, sometimes, emotional sign of change within the body. These etched-in lines represent tears in the dermis, and it’s estimated that 50 to 90 percent of women have stretch marks (men can get them, too). While they pose no threat to the skin or body, their presence may bother you.
 
We’re going to be totally transparent upfront: Stretch marks cannot be fully erased. But, with that said, the right mix of at-home skincare and professional intervention can help make them less noticeable. If you’re curious about what that entails, this article is for you. From serums and oils to in-office treatments and even plastic surgery, here's everything to consider if you wish to minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
 
## **Stretch Marks 101** 
From the early teenage years through adulthood, [stretch marks](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-stretch-marks) can form at any time. These marks are medically known as striae and are technically a form of thin scarring within the dermal layer of the skin. Anything from a growth spurt during puberty to pregnancy to weight gain to weightlifting to even certain medications can cause stretch marks to form. Most often found on the stomach, thighs, butt, breasts, arms, and back, stretch marks pose zero threat to the skin's health. But, because they are technically a scar, they do tend to be permanent once they're there, says [Corey Hartman, MD](https://www.instagram.com/dr.coreyhartman/?hl=en), a board certified dermatologist in Birmingham, AL. 
 
Stretch marks are totally normal — some even call them a rite of passage when entering adulthood and motherhood — and about 80 percent of Americans have them in some shape or form. However, not all stretch marks are equal. Unbeknownst to many, there are six different types, although red (striae rubrae) and white (striae albae) stretch marks are most common and what most of us typically associate with the term. 
 
All stretch marks follow the same development path. They start slightly raised. Depending on your skin tone, they can take on a pink, red, purplish, or dark brown hue. Typically, stretch marks are red due to the involvement of blood vessels when they first arise, and they can also be itchy before eventually maturing, says [Mark Albert, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/mark-albert-md-77), a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City. As they evolve, they transition to a lighter color. While older stretch marks may appear to be white, they're actually just a shade that’s lighter than your normal skin tone, explains [Joshua Fox, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/joshua-fox-md-282), an NYC-based board certified dermatologist.
 
## ** The Right Time to Treat Stretch Marks**
New stretch marks that are still in their infancy and tend to be [easier to correct](https://aedit.com/procedure/stretch-mark-solutions) than more mature ones. That’s not to say that older ones are resistant to treatment though. They’re not, but they do require a different course of action. “If they are still red, the goal is to treat the irritation and swelling,” Dr. Albert says. “If they are white, treatment aims to increase collagen production and improve hydration.”
 
While many people wait to treat their stretch marks – mainly in the hopes that they'll fade away on their own – Dr. Hartman says that it's best to treat them as soon as possible. “Remember, stretch marks are scars,” he explains. “Because they're not inflamed, there's no need to worry about pain, itching, or growth, as there may be with other scars.” New moms take note: “I always warn patients who have [stretch marks from pregnancy](https://aedit.com/aedition/most-common-skin-hair-conditions-during-pregnancy) and plan on having more kids to wait until they are done having children before treating them,” he adds.
 
## **Can You Prevent Stretch Marks?**
Unfortunately, there's no surefire way to prevent your body from creating stretch marks, but there are a few best practices to follow to limit their development:
 
1. **Skincare During Pregnancy**: If you're pregnant, regularly apply a hydrating oil to the belly, hips, or anywhere else your body is expanding. “Oils are great because they allow the skin to be more malleable, especially when pregnant,” Dr. Hartman says. He likes formulas with [vitamin E](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-e-in-skincare), and the cult-classic [Bio-Oil](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fskincare-oil-xlsImpprod1800041) is always a good one to stock up on. 
2. **Maintaining a Healthy Weight**: The more weight gained, the more likely it is for the skin to stretch to accommodate swelling fat cells. Maintaining a stable, healthy weight can help keep the skin free of stretch marks.

Basically, any time the skin is abruptly stretched or forced to expand, collagen and elastin proteins in the dermis can rupture and leave scar tissue (i.e. stretch marks) behind. The more you can minimize such circumstances, the more likely you are to avoid striae.

## **The Best Treatments to Minimize Stretch Marks** 
There is no cure for stretch marks, and most plastic surgeons and dermatologists are transparent with their patients about what is and isn’t possible and the expected results. Remember, what works for one person may not be as effective for someone else, which is why there are a myriad of options available.
 
### **1. Load up on Hydrators**
- **Best For**: White stretch marks

**How It Works**: Perhaps the most accessible and affordable option, at-home creams, serums, and lotions do have a place in a stretch mark treatment protocol. They probably will not produce as noticeable an effect as professional solutions, but, if you're looking for where to begin, stretch mark creams are always a good starting point. As Dr. Albert explains, brands market emollients as treatments, though hypothetically any ointment that improves skin hydration could improve white stretch marks. With that said, clinical evidence is often lacking.

Should you go the route of over-the-counter topicals, look for products with collagen-stimulating ingredients, clinical research, and proven results. Our pick? [StriVectin SD Advanced PLUS Intensive Moisturizing Concentrate](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fsd-advanced-plus-intensive-moisturizing-concentrate-wrinkles-stretch-marks-xlsImpprod6470101), which packs a powerful punch of concentrated copper tripeptides to target new collagen formation. [Hyaluronic acid (HA)](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) is another ingredient to consider. [Data shows](https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-96221730300-6/fulltext) that the potent humectant may improve the look of stretch marks by improving skin elasticity.

It's critical to be fully compliant when using a topical. Make sure to thoroughly rub the chosen product fully into the skin every day, as instructed – and don’t expect an overnight miracle.

### **2. Silicone Patches**
- **Best For**: Rough, white & red stretch marks

**How It Works**: If you’ve ever had a plastic surgery procedure, [silicone strips and gels](https://aedit.com/aedition/scar-minimizing-skincare-to-use-after-surgery) may very well have been part of your recovery process because of their ability to minimize the appearance of scarring. Silicone acts as a coating of sorts to help smooth out the skin texture. Like silicone sheeting used on post-surgical scars, it creates an occlusive environment that encourages the skin to heal and the striae to flatten. Products like [Dermaclara SiliconeFusion](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermaclara.com%2Fproducts%2Fenhanced-silicone-fusion-stretch-mark-system) employ silicone to add moisture to the area while simultaneously increasing skin elasticity and improving the appearance of existing stretch marks. Like all other treatment options, silicone sheets and patches will not fully eliminate stretch marks. They provide, at most, modest improvement.

### **3. Layer on a Retinoid**
- **Best For**: Red stretch marks

**How It Works**: Vitamin A-derived [retinoids](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) help speed up the rate of skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen, thus evening out skin tone and texture so stretch marks are less perceptible to the naked eye. [Studies show](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jdv.13223) that using a prescription-strength retinoid, like [tretinoin](https://aedit.com/procedure/tretinoin), nightly for upwards of six months can minimize the appearance of the marks. However, doctors do not recommend this option to women who are [pregnant or breastfeeding](https://aedit.com/aedition/skincare-ingredients-to-avoid-during-pregnancy-breastfeeding) because of the links between oral isotretinoin and birth defects.

### **4. Stimulate New Collagen**
- **Best For**: White stretch marks (though it can be used for red ones, too)

**How It Works**: Microneedling (sometimes referred to as collagen induction therapy) is a procedure that aims to stimulate collagen and elastin production to tighten, lift, and rejuvenate the skin. “[Microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) involves a handheld device with a multi-needle tip attachment that creates controlled depth micro-injuries to the skin that allow for optimal absorption of topical products, enhancing their effects while stimulating the skin's natural repair process to produce collagen and elastin,” says [Kristina Kitsos, RN](http://www.kristinakitsos.com/), a skincare expert and cosmetic injector. As such, “it's an effective treatment that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, minimize pores, scars, as well as stretch marks,” she adds.

Treatments like [microneedling with radiofrequency (RF)](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency) can offer additional benefits. Beyond the traditional microneedling effects, RF works to tighten the deeper layers of skin so that it is firmer on the surface. “Besides collagen production, it also promotes elastin and proteoglycans, too,” Dr. Albert shares. His favorite device for this purpose? Morpheus8 by InMode. “The energy should deliver at a minimum of 3.5 millimeters below the skin surface, and this device has the capability of delivering energy up to 8 millimeters,” he explains. Cutera's Secret™ RF and Endymed's Intensif also utilize the combination of microneedling and radiofrequency to improve the appearance of striae. 

Additionally, [platelet-rich plasma (PRP)](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) can also be used in tandem with microneedling to improve the healing process of fresher stretch marks. Other forms of microneedling use add-ons like exosomes, which help restore cells and enhance cell-to-cell communication for facilitating the exchange of RNA and other vital proteins between cells like fibroblasts that make collagen. Kitsos says the benefits of microneedling for stretch marks using exosomes and/or PRP – which is safe for all skin tones and minimally invasive – includes:

- An increase in collagen and improvement of the texture of stretch marks
- Reduced redness associated with newer stretch marks

Kitsos performs a so-called ‘MesoGlow’ treatment for stretch marks. “It takes microneedling to the next level by infusing skin with a proprietary mix of neuromodulators, exosomes, growth factors, peptides, coenzymes, hyaluronic acid, amino acids, and minerals,” she says. “It's a great way to combine the powerful effects of the treatment with the skin-strengthening and rejuvenating properties of exosomes and PRP.” The combination goes further than what any one piece of it can achieve. “Together, these ingredients help stimulate collagen production in the deepest layers of the skin in a way that microneedling alone can't,” Kitsos says. A series of treatments can garner pretty dramatic results depending on the severity of the stretch marks.

### **5. Beam Me Up**
- **Best For**: White & red stretch marks

**How It Works**: Lasers are a long-practiced technique for reducing color and texture in stretch marks. Some devices, like the [erbium YAG laser](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-erbium-laser), are part of doctors' toolboxes for their ability to improve the appearance of older white striae. Despite the improvement that a laser can provide, each modality has a unique ability. “All lasers serve different purposes,” Dr. Hartman explains. “If it's a color and texture issue, a series of treatments with multiple lasers is probably going to be what your doctor recommends.” Here’s an overview:

- **Vascular & Pulsed Dye Lasers**: These lasers improve redness in stretch marks and help take down lingering swelling. As Dr. Hartman explains, red stretch marks usually have more blood vessels involved and show more redness either because the skin is inherently thin or it's trying to heal itself. “Red stretch marks are also a characteristic of lighter skin,” he adds. “You don't see them so much in people of color.” To effectively zap away any lingering redness, a [pulsed dye laser](https://aedit.com/procedure/pulsed-dye-laser) or vascular laser, like the [Cutera Excel® V](https://aedit.com/procedure/excel-v) (it has a stretch mark setting) or the V-beam laser, needs to be used to decrease the pigment. While these treatments can improve the redness, they will not amend the skin's texture.
- **Fractional Lasers**: Fractional lasers stimulate the production of collagen and elastin to make the skin more pliable and plump. “When there is a stretch mark, initially, if you rub your hand over it, your hand falls into a hole or indentation in the skin,” Dr. Fox notes. “Using a laser to stimulate collagen fills that dip.” Lasers are able to “remodel the scar and make it much less noticeable,” he adds.

Keep in mind that treating stretch marks with a laser will take a series of treatments and – in some cases – modalities, but they can be one of the more effective options available. “The only one I've had success with in improving skin texture is [Fraxel®](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fraxel-laser-skin-resurfacing-treatments),” Dr. Hartman says. Providers often use a combo of fractional lasers and microneedling to improve more complex cases. “In some instances, we alternate between lasers and microneedling since microneedling alone takes a longer time to get to the desired result,” he shares.

### **6. Fill Them In**
- **Best For**: Textured stretch marks

**How It Works**: Collagen-stimulating fillers like [Radiesse®](https://aedit.com/procedure/radiesse) (for immediate volume) and [Sculptra®](https://aedit.com/procedure/sculptra) (for longer-term plumping) can be injected off-label into deeper stretch marks to add volume to the area. Often prescribed in tandem with other skin-improving modalities, like lasers, biostimulatory injectables will markedly improve the depth of the marks. However, bear in mind that one session usually isn't enough. You'll need to repeat the treatment a few times every few months to see a change in the skin via collagen production. The upside? Once produced, the collagen is long-lasting.

### **7. Cut Them Out**
- **Best For**: White stretch marks coupled with loose skin

**How It Works**: In cases where non-invasive or minimally invasive options do not provide ample results, surgery is an option. Usually reserved for patients with extensive stretch marks on an area of the body that is easy to treat (think: the stomach), surgical procedures can isolate stretch marks and trade them for a fine line scar. “There are situations where we can remove stretch marks as part of the removal of excess skin,” Dr. Albert says. Stretch mark removal frequently occurs as part of a [tummy tuck](https://aedit.com/procedure/abdominoplasty), [breast lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-lift), [breast reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-reduction), [body lift](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-surgical-nonsurgical-body-lifts), [arm lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/arm-lift), [butt lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/butt-lift), and/or [thigh lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/thigh-lift) procedure.

## **The Takeaway**
Not everyone who gains or loses weight or gets pregnant will develop stretch marks – genetics and the skin's suppleness influence their formation. Keeping your weight, hormone levels, and skin hydration as stable as possible can help minimize the change of stretch marks forming. From there, it’s up to your body. If your stretch marks bother you, there are an array of options available to make them less noticeable, but patience is required. “No matter what option or customized regimen you choose, it's not a quick fix and it's going to take time to see results,” Dr. Hartman says. And it’s also important to be realistic about what's possible. “If you get 75 percent improvement, that's what we are aiming for because, after all, these still are scars," he adds.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Aesthetics

From retinoids to lasers to surgery, these are the stretch mark treatments that actually work.

How To Minimize Stretch Marks: At-Home Skincare, Cosmetic Procedures, Plastic Surgery

Every Treatment And Procedure That Helps Minimize Stretch Marks

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Microneedling is typically thought of as a facial treatment (it did, after all, rise to commercial fame as a result of the so-called ‘[vampire facial](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp)’). But the skin resurfacing and collagen-boosting benefits microneedling offers the complexion can improve tone and texture on the body as well. So, how does [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) for the body work? Ahead, experts sound off on the uses of this procedure for the skin below the neck, who is the ideal candidate, and what to expect from treatment. 

## **Microneedling 101**
First things first — a quick intro to microneedling. [Microneedling](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-microneedling-at-home-dermarolling) (a.k.a. collagen induction therapy) is an aesthetic procedure in which the skin is methodically pricked with tiny, sterilized needles. As these needles penetrate the skin (at a depth between 0.25 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters), they cause micro-wounds that trigger the body’s natural healing processes, including collagen production. The result? Refined, rejuvenated, and smoother skin. 

## **Benefits of Body Microneedling**
Microneedling is performed on “areas that have been depleted of collagen and elasticity,” says [Douglas Monasebian, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/douglas-monasebian-md-200), a double board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and medical director at Park Avenue Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in New York City. On the face, that means microneedling is used to improve the appearance of:

- Acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation
- Large pores

On the body, microneedling can have a similar effect. “The most popular areas of treatment for microneedling on the body are the fronts and backs of thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and décolletage,” Dr. Monasebian notes. As such, it’s most commonly employed to treat:

- Scarring
- Stretch marks
- Sun damage
- Uneven skin texture  

As we mentioned, the depth of the needles used in professional microneedling range from 0.25 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters, depending on the treatment area. Body procedures often require deeper penetration for best results because the skin of, say, the buttocks and thighs is thicker than that of the face and décolleté.

## **Ideal Candidate for Body Microneedling**
Generally speaking, patients looking to treat skin concerns related to uneven skin tone and texture may be good candidates for microneedling on the face and body. With that said, there are some contraindications to be aware of. As Dr. Monasebian explains, anyone who has taken [Accutane](https://aedit.com/procedure/accutane) or other medications that increase photosensitivity in the past six months should not undergo treatment. Additionally, those taking blood thinners or anticoagulants are not candidates. Another note: tattooed areas should not be treated.

## **Body Microneedling Treatments**
Like microneedling for the face, a series of treatments (think: four to six sessions spaced one month apart) will likely be recommended for best results. Each appointment will take about an hour, which includes topical numbing. Prior to beginning treatment, your provider will give you a set of pre-op instructions to ensure the skin is prepped and ready. According to Dr. Monasebian, this will include: 

- Avoiding sun exposure for three days prior to treatment and one week after
- Ceasing use of [retinol and retinoids](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) for seven days pre- and post-procedure 
- Skipping waxing for two weeks prior to and after treatment
- Not scheduling a [chemical peel](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-medical-grade-chemical-peels-at-home-exfoliators) two weeks before or after treatment

In addition to opting for a [gentler face and body skincare routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/skincare-after-facial-plastic-surgery-procedures) in the aftermath of a microneedling treatment, Dr. Monasebian says patients should avoid exercise, saunas, and jacuzzis for 24 hours. And, while it may not be as applicable for the body, you shouldn’t apply makeup to the treatment area for 12 hours afterwards.

## **Body Microneedling Recovery & Results**
The numbing agent should mean you won’t feel much during the microneedling treatment itself, but you may experience mild side effects for a few days afterward. “Patients appear red and have minor discomfort after their procedure (similar to a [mild sunburn](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-relieve-and-treat-sunburn)) for the first 48 hours,” explains [Samer Jaber, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/samer-jaber-md-3882), a board certified dermatologist and founder of Washington Square Dermatology in NYC. Results of microneedling for both the face and body are incremental and build with regular treatment.  

Talk to your dermatologist or plastic surgeon to find out if you might be a good candidate for body microneedling.

Microneedling is typically thought of as a facial treatment, but its skin resurfacing and collagen-boosting benefits can be enjoyed on the body, too.

Benefits Of Body Microneedling For Stretch Marks, Scarring, Sun Damage

Everything You Need To Know About Microneedling For The Body

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Stretch marks can happen to anyone. The conversation typically centers around pregnancy (since that’s when women are most susceptible to getting them), but the reality of these streaky lines is that they know no gender, age, or body type. The good news is that there are various options to deal with them if you want. We asked board certified dermatologist [Dr. Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), to weigh in on the most effective stretch mark treatments.

## **What Are Stretch Marks?**
Stretch marks are a type of scar that results from the rapid stretching of your skin. These conditions are often the result of teenage growth spurts, [pregnancy](https://aedit.com/aedition/the-mommy-makeover-how-to-bounce-back-after-a-baby), or weight gain. Rapid changes in skin size cause the rupture of collagen and elastin components in the skin and thus form scars. 

Less commonly, stretch marks result from prolonged repeated application of corticosteroids to your skin. Anyone can develop stretch marks, but they are more common amongst women, and they often appear on areas like the hips and breasts, as well as the stomach, thighs, and upper arms. Stretch marks tend to fade with time but will not disappear completely without treatment. They are not dangerous, but some people don't like the way they look, which is the main reason patients seek treatment for stretch marks. 

Treatment costs vary widely due to the different areas that can be treated, but on average each treatment costs $2,000. We spoke to Dr. Emer about treatment options for patients who want to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, how these treatments work, and what to expect from the procedures themselves.

## **Lasers**
Stretch marks can be treated with either ablative or non-ablative lasers. By destroying the upper layer of the skin, ablative lasers such as [CO2](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-co2-laser) and [Erbium](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-erbium-laser) YAG make the body generate a [new layer of skin](https://aedit.com/aedition/the-mommy-makeover-how-to-bounce-back-after-a-baby) which is smoother and more unified in color. [Non-ablative lasers](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-laser-skin-resurfacing) including Alexandrite and [Fraxel](https://aedit.com/procedure/fraxel-repair) aim at the deeper layers of the skin, to promote the development of collagen. It often takes a number of sessions of either form of laser treatment to see the full effects.

The number of sessions varies from patient to patient, but the process itself is quick and non-invasive. Patients should expect to take some time off on the day of the treatment, each of which can last between an hour and an hour and a half for ablative laser treatments, or half an hour for non-ablative laser treatments. Skin is often sensitive and slightly pink after treatment, but the effects usually pass within a week. [Ablative lasers](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-fractional-lasers) cause slightly more severe side effects that can include raw skin and mild pain. The skin becomes covered with a scab before healing to reveal the new skin underneath. 

Patients are generally offered numbing creams during the procedure and once those wear off they can feel like they have a sunburn. People often report that their skin feels a little rough for a couple of days, but that it returns to normal soon after. The number of sessions it takes to treat stretch marks varies depending on a number of factors including how old the scarring is, the area that is being treated, and the patient’s skin tone. 

They can also be combined with other treatments. "A new form of medical dermabrasion called the salt facial (combined with) deeper dermal heating with microsecond YAG lasers like Aerolase and Lasergenesis has been used in our practice to give improvements for those who want minimal downtime," says Dr. Emer. "But these require a number of treatments to start to see results.”

## **Microneedling**
Dr. Emer’s go-to treatment for stretch marks is radiofrequency [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/dermabrasion) because “lasers are more expensive, have more downtime, and higher risk of pigmentation and redness," he says. "Radiofrequency microneedling has less risk for discoloration or scarring from energy-based treatments. Peels, creams, and microneedling have minimal risk, but take many more treatments to begin seeing an outcome.” 

Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the outer layers of the skin and affects skin below the surface. It works by promoting elastin and collagen production during the wound healing process, the same way this treatment can help fine lines and acne scars on your face. The process is growing in popularity, with some consumers even purchasing at-home derma rollers to improve the appearance of the skin on their own. However, these at-home options can be more painful and have a higher risk of infection than treatments carried out in-office by an American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) registered dermatologist or cosmetic physician. 

Microneedling treatments are carried out after a topical anesthetic has been applied to the treatment area to reduce discomfort during the procedure. It generally takes around an hour for the cream to numb the area. After that point, depending on the size of the area being treated, the procedure usually takes around half an hour. 

One of the most attractive features of microneedling for stretch marks is that once the treatment is completed, the results will last indefinitely. "Once you get improvement, you will maintain that improvement forever," says Dr. Emer. "However, hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, or use of corticosteroid creams over the improved areas or oral corticosteroids can influence stretch marks to get worse or return.” It is important for patients to consider if they are likely to expose themselves to more stretch mark risk factors. For example, women planning on having additional future pregnancies should wait until afterward to treat stretch marks that could otherwise return. 

It usually takes more sessions to treat stretch marks with microneedling than lasers and your practitioner will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate of how many sessions you will require. The downtime is minimal compared to other treatments. 

## **Topical Creams and Ointments**
For years there have been vast numbers of topical treatments like ointments, gels, and serums promising to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The ability of these treatments to offer significant and lasting results has been debated and researched thoroughly. “Researchers have studied many of the creams, lotions, and gels sold to treat stretch marks," says Dr. Emer. "While no one product seems to help all of the time — and some don’t seem to help at all — researchers have discovered some helpful hacks."

As with any other form of skincare, the key to finding the right product is in the ingredient list. Dr. Emer says that [vitamin A](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) is the hero ingredient when it comes to treating stretch marks. Vitamin A is a group of organic compounds that include retinol, retinoic acid, and several provitamin A carotenoids such as beta-carotene. "Researchers found that stretch marks did not fade when people massaged almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, or vitamin E into their skin," he says. "Topical vitamin A (tretinoin, retinol, etc), however, is popular and often dermarolled into the skin at home for bigger improvements than just daily use.” 

There are ingredients to be cautious of if you are looking to prevent stretch marks from developing during pregnancy. "Safety during pregnancy of one ingredient, Centella asiatica, has been questioned," says Dr. Emer. "Evidence of treatments for reducing the appearance of the scars after pregnancy is limited. Most women avoid retinol and tretinoin (vitamin A) during pregnancy so moisturizing creams with shea butter or vitamin E are often used.” Other options that are considered safe to use during pregnancy include glycolic and lactic acids. Both have exfoliating properties and will stimulate collagen production in the treatment area.

If you choose to use at-home treatment options, Dr. Emer has these tips for getting the most out of them. “If you want to try one of these creams, lotions, or gels to fade stretch marks, be sure to use the product early," he says. "These treatments seem to have little effect on mature stretch marks. Gently massage the product into your skin. Apply the product every day for weeks. If you do see results with these treatments, it will take a few weeks."

Realistically the only way to significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks is to undergo a more extensive treatment plan. While they do tend to fade with time, microneedling and lasers provide the best long lasting-results for patients.

Expert Opinion

Stretch marks can happen to anyone. The good news is that there are various options to deal with them if you want. We asked Dr. Jason Emer to weigh in on the most effective stretch mark treatments.

The AEDITION

Stretch Marks