Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Stretch marks form when skin stretches quickly — in growth spurts, pregnancy or weight change. They are harmless and very common, and while they fade over time, they cannot be fully “erased”.
They fade from red/purple to pale over time on their own
Moisturising and staying hydrated support skin
Retinoids may help early (red) marks — not in pregnancy
Procedures (lasers, microneedling) can improve them modestly
Gradual weight change reduces new marks
When to see a doctor urgently
Sudden widespread stretch marks with other symptoms (rarely, a hormone problem)
Beware creams promising to “remove” stretch marks completely
Retinoid creams should be avoided in pregnancy
They fade, but don’t fully vanish. No cream completely removes stretch marks; they fade over time and treatments improve them modestly. Manage expectations. MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get rid of stretch marks?
They fade over time on their own. Moisturising, early retinoid use (not in pregnancy) and procedures like lasers or microneedling improve them, but none fully erases them.
What causes stretch marks?
Rapid stretching of the skin — during growth spurts, pregnancy, weight gain or muscle gain — plus a genetic tendency.
Do stretch mark creams work?
Most give modest results at best. Early (red) marks respond a little better; no cream removes them completely.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.