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Stretch marks are very common. They're harmless and often get less visible over time.
Stretch marks look like lines or streaks across the skin.
Stretch marks can be pink, red, brown, black, silver or purple. They usually start off darker and fade over time.
Stretch marks are most common on the tummy, breasts, chest, upper arms, legs, bottom, hips or back.
Stretch marks are often caused by sudden growth or weight gain.
You may be more likely to get them if you:
Rarely, stretch marks can be due to a condition called Cushing's syndrome.
Stretch marks usually fade over time but may not disappear completely.
Many creams and lotions claim to prevent, reduce or remove stretch marks. But there's very little evidence these work.
There are some treatments that may help make stretch marks look better, but they will not get rid of them.
They include:
You would need to pay for these treatments as they're not available on the NHS.
It's not always possible to prevent stretch marks. The best way to reduce your chance of getting them is by maintaining a healthy weight.
You have large stretch marks and:
These could be symptoms of Cushing's syndrome.
