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How to Reduce Stretch Marks: Effective Tips and Treatments

Discover effective ways to reduce stretch marks with proven treatments and skincare tips. Learn about effective natural remedies, medical treatments, and prevention measures to achieve smoother, healthier skin.

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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

Stretch marks are narrow band-like scars that develop when the skin stretches or shrinks abruptly. This immediate change causes collagen and elastin, which support the skin, to break, and as the skin heals, these marks tend to appear. The severity of stretch marks is associated with genetics, hormonal imbalance, puberty, pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, and several other factors. 

While these marks can form on any part of the skin, the stomach, breasts, upper arms, thighs, and buttocks are the most commonly affected areas. This article covers natural remedies, medical treatments, and preventive measures for stretch marks. 

Natural Remedies for Reducing Stretch Marks 

Plenty of products like creams, gels, and lotions claim to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. While most of them have shown little to no results, researchers have developed useful hacks to get the most out of these items. Here are some natural remedies that might help:  

  • According to the American Association of Dermatology, gently massaging moisturisers to early stretch marks every day for several weeks can help see results. 

  • Hyaluronic acid and tretinoin are useful for moisturising and skin healing. They are used in creams, lotions, and serums. One study found that people who applied creams containing these two ingredients to early stretch marks every night for 24 weeks saw less noticeable scars. 

  • Essential oils have been found to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and can potentially improve skin elasticity. Argon oil, rosehip oil, and pomegranate oil with dragon’s blood extract (the resin of dracaena trees, also known as Madagascar dragon trees) help increase collagen production and improve the skin’s elasticity.  

  • In addition, do-it-yourself (DIY) treatments like sugar scrub and pure aloe vera can improve skin texture. 

For a sugar scrub, mix ½ cup sugar with ½ cup of essential oil until it looks like wet beach sand. Then gently scrub with the mixture all over the body parts where stretch marks are present and rise with warm water. Use this scrub 2-3 times a week for visible results. 

Additionally, aloe vera has skin-repairing properties. Thus, massaging fresh aloe vera daily after a shower can help soften and heal the skin. 

Medical Treatments for Stretch Marks 

There are various medical procedures available to treat stretch marks: 

  • Chemical peel

  • Laser therapy

  • Microdermabrasion

  • Radiofrequency

  • Ultrasound 

While medical treatments can’t fully erase or prevent stretch marks, dermatologists may combine these procedures to get the best results. The popular treatment options that have given effective results are: 

  • Laser Therapy: Such treatments deliver focused light to the targeted skin area, helping increase collagen production and improving the skin’s texture. There are various types of laser therapy, and dermatologists decide which is suitable based on the severity of stretch marks. 

  • Microdermabrasion: This involves exfoliating the skin with a handheld device by applying an abrasive substance that gently scrubs away the dead skin cells. It reduces the severity of stretch marks and improves texture. 

  • Radiofrequency: Dermatologists send energy waves into the skin to improve collagen production and tighten the skin. It is often combined with laser therapy or microneedling treatment options to improve the results. 

Consult Top Experts for Personalised Treatment

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

₹650

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M, Dermatologist

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

83%

(275+ Patients)

₹550

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

₹660

Dr. Madhab Datta, Dermatologist

Dr. Madhab Datta

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (DVL)

Kolkata

Dr. Madhab Datta's Clinic, Kolkata

₹650

₹98 Cashback


Diet and Nutrition Tips to Prevent Stretch Marks 

Eating a balanced diet with foods and supplements that promote healthy skin can reduce the risk of stretch marks. Including unprocessed foods in the diet fulfils the skin's nutrient requirements. Items rich in vitamins A, C, and D, zinc, and protein help produce collagen and repair the skin. 

Here’s what to include in the diet:

  • Add carrots, citrus fruits, and milk to the diet as they are high in essential vitamins. 

  • Lentils, beans, broccoli, lean beef, and chicken are high in protein and essential for skin health. 

  • Zinc-rich foods such as nuts and fish help reduce inflammation and heal the skin.  

  • Nutritional supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids boost collagen production and enhance skin elasticity. 

Exercise and Stretching Techniques to Prevent Stretch Marks 

Regular physical exercises can help prevent the appearance of stretch marks. They improve circulation and aid in collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and stretchy. 

Here are a few exercises to improve skin elasticity: 

  • Cardio exercises like running, walking and cycling improve blood circulation. 

  • Low-impact exercises like yoga and stretching help stretch and tone the muscles. 

  • Strength training exercises help build muscles and improve the skin's firmness. 

Preventive Measures Against Stretch Marks

Following are some effective preventive measures against stretch marks:

  • Drinking sufficient water helps in skin hydration and makes it soft. Dry skin is at a higher risk of developing stretch marks. 

  • According to the Institute of Medicines, the daily water intake for men is 104 ounces, and for women 72 ounces. 

  • Stretch marks appear if the skin stretches rapidly due to abrupt weight loss or gain. Thus, if one is trying to lose or gain weight, consult a nutritionist or healthcare professional to understand the importance of gradual weight management. 

  • Incorporate the right mix of diet and exercise to reduce the risk of stretch marks and achieve a sustainable weight management journey. 

Myths and Facts About Stretch Marks

The cause of stretch marks differs from person to person. While genetics and hormones play a huge role here, there are still some misconceptions that lead to confusion: 

  • People falsely believe that only women can get stretch marks. However, global reports show that about one in four men (24%) get them too. Boys also get stretch marks when rapid growth occurs during puberty. 

  • Many people think that having stretch marks is a sign of being overweight. That’s not entirely true. Stretch marks can appear during rapid growth, abrupt weight loss, or when the skin is stretched too quickly. 

  • People believe that losing weight can help stretch marks disappear. However, that’s not entirely true. Abrupt weight loss can make the stretch marks more prominent as the skin loses its firmness. 

Psychological and Emotional Impact of Stretch Marks 

In the paper “Negative perceptions and emotional impact of striae gravidarum among pregnant women”, Megan Lawlor (M.D., a co-author of the paper) stated that stretch marks can contribute to depression and anxiety in the prenatal period. Here’s what individuals need to know:

  • It affects around one in seven women during pregnancy and postpartum. 

  • It can lead to negative body image issues, social anxiety, and low self-esteem. 

  • Doctors suggest psychological support and empathy towards patients can help them navigate the emotional impacts of stretch marks. 

When to Seek Professional Help for Stretch Marks? 

If one doesn’t see any visible results with home remedies, they must seek professional help to remove stretch marks. A dermatologist can help identify the underlying cause and prescribe a treatment tailored to the severity and skin type.  
Apart from this, individuals should consult a health care professional if they experience any unusual symptoms like: 

  • Abrupt weight gain

  • Extremely thin skin that bruises easily

  • Muscle weakness or fatigue

While medical treatments may not guarantee results, professional advice will produce better results than home remedies. 

Conclusion

While stretch marks don’t appear very concerning regarding health conditions, they may greatly affect one’s emotional and mental health. No products claim to remove them completely, but natural remedies like moisturising and scrubbing can help improve skin texture. 

Gradual weight management, hydration, and a balanced diet prevent stretch marks and improve skin elasticity. Professional consultation should be sought if any unusual symptoms are noticed, as early treatments are more effective. 
 

Consult Top Dermatologists

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

₹650

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M, Dermatologist

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

83%

(275+ Patients)

₹550

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

₹660

Dr. Madhab Datta, Dermatologist

Dr. Madhab Datta

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (DVL)

Kolkata

Dr. Madhab Datta's Clinic, Kolkata

₹650

₹98 Cashback

Consult Top Experts for Personalised Treatment

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

₹650

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M, Dermatologist

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

83%

(275+ Patients)

₹550

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

₹660

Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy, Dermatologist

Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy

Dermatologist

23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)

Hyderabad

JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad

₹700

Dr. Madhab Datta, Dermatologist

Dr. Madhab Datta

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (DVL)

Kolkata

Dr. Madhab Datta's Clinic, Kolkata

₹650

₹98 Cashback

Consult Top Dermatologists

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

₹650

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M, Dermatologist

Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

83%

(275+ Patients)

₹550

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

₹660

Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy, Dermatologist

Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy

Dermatologist

23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)

Hyderabad

JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad

₹700

Dr. Madhab Datta, Dermatologist

Dr. Madhab Datta

Dermatologist

5 Years • MBBS, MD (DVL)

Kolkata

Dr. Madhab Datta's Clinic, Kolkata

₹650

₹98 Cashback

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