There’s no magic fix for stretch marks, but topical approaches can help hydrate the skin, support repair, and even out discoloration.
Stretch marks, or striae, form when the skin stretches quickly because of growth or weight gain. They are usually not an indication of an underlying medical problem.
Anyone can develop stretch marks, regardless of sex. The most frequent times they appear are during pregnancy and puberty.
Initially, a stretch mark often looks like a thin reddish or purplish streak with a texture that differs from the surrounding skin. Many stretch marks will naturally fade with time.
As they fade they typically become less conspicuous. Faded stretch marks tend to be lighter than the adjacent skin and may appear slightly shiny, similar to a scar.
Current research shows there’s no single cure-all ingredient for stretch marks — at least not yet. However, some at-home remedies may reduce their appearance and help them fade faster.
Newer stretch marks are more likely to respond to treatment than older ones.
Natural remedies for stretch marks
1. Vitamin A
In skincare, vitamin A refers to retinoids. Retinoids can improve skin texture and give a more youthful look; they’re commonly found in many over-the-counter topical cosmetics.
Some studies have concentrated on tretinoin, a prescription-strength retinoid. In older research, tretinoin appeared to make stretch marks look narrower and less severe.
However, there are few recent large trials evaluating tretinoin’s effectiveness for stretch marks. Further studies are necessary to clarify its full impact.
Vitamin A products can sometimes irritate the skin, so follow usage directions carefully if you try them. Retinoids carry known risks during pregnancy, so avoid use if you are:
- pregnant
- breastfeeding
- planning to become pregnant
2. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a potent moisturizing and skin-repairing ingredient often found in creams, lotions, and serums.
The visible look of stretch marks accompanies invisible structural changes in the skin. These changes reduce elasticity in part because collagen isn’t performing its usual strengthening role.
Hyaluronic acid may have the ability to influence skin elasticity, according to some studies.
In fact, some 2017 research indicates hyaluronic acid can improve the appearance of stretch marks, though more evidence is required. To test it, apply a hyaluronic acid product to the affected area daily.
3. Centella
Centella asiatica is an herb commonly used in Korean beauty (K-beauty) formulations.
Often called cica creams, products with centella are sometimes applied to scars or to calm and repair sensitive skin. These creams are becoming more popular in the U.S., though they can be expensive.
Centella reduces inflammation and promotes collagen synthesis. Some studies suggested that centella-containing creams may help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy and improve their appearance, but researchers note more evidence is needed.
4. Sugar
Sugar is a widely used exfoliant. Its small granules gently remove dead skin, leaving the surface smoother.
Microdermabrasion performed by a dermatologist is one of the few clinically supported ways to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, so a DIY exfoliant makes sense to try and you may already have the ingredients.
To make a sugar scrub:
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar with a softening oil such as almond or coconut oil. Add the oil gradually until the mixture resembles damp beach sand. You may need up to 1/2 cup of oil in total.
- Gently massage the mixture over the area with stretch marks.
- Use 2 to 3 times per week while showering or bathing. Rinse with warm water.
Prepare small batches as needed. Store in a sealed container for a short period, but discard and make a new batch if it changes color or smell.
Prepare small batches as needed. Store in a sealed container for a short period, but discard and make a new batch if it changes color or smell.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has long been used for skin care. The gel inside aloe leaves can be applied directly to soothe and moisturize the skin.
2018 research suggests aloe vera aids healing from burns and wounds. Since stretch marks are a form of scarring from skin damage, aloe’s reparative qualities could possibly help prevent or fade stretch marks.
While clinical evidence specifically for aloe vera and stretch marks is limited, pure aloe may be worth trying because it can soften and support skin healing.
Apply pure aloe vera gel from a plant or an over-the-counter product to stretch marks daily after showering.
6. Coconut oil
Virgin coconut oil has documented skin benefits. It can help preserve the skin’s protective barrier.
2018 research suggested coconut oil improves dry skin and some superficial infections. In animal studies, virgin coconut oil also promoted faster wound healing.
There’s limited evidence supporting coconut oil specifically for stretch marks. Studies on other plant oils (olive oil, almond oil, cocoa butter) have not shown significant improvements.
Still, gentle daily massage with an oil might help prevent stretch marks, as some experts suggest. A light daily rub with coconut oil is unlikely to cause harm.
If you’re allergic to coconut, avoid this option.
Remember any skincare treatment can occasionally trigger sensitivities or allergies — natural remedies included. If a reaction occurs, discontinue use.
Medical treatments for stretch marks
Medical procedures for stretch marks are performed in clinics by trained professionals. You’ll typically be treated by a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon, or a licensed specialist depending on your location, the treatment, and associated risks.
More study is needed. Still, research — including one 2017 study and another from the same year — suggests medical treatments can visibly improve stretch marks.
It’s important to set realistic expectations: even medical procedures rarely remove stretch marks completely or prevent them entirely.
7. Laser therapy
Lasers deliver targeted light into the skin. Depending on the laser type, treatment may stimulate collagen production and help stretch marks fade so they blend with nearby skin. Some laser procedures require multiple sessions to see results.
Laser therapy is commonly used to reduce texture irregularities and redness from scars and rosacea, so it’s plausible it can improve stretch mark appearance.
8. Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion offers a level of exfoliation that at-home remedies cannot achieve. A professional uses a handheld device that applies an abrasive medium to gently remove dead skin cells.
Research on microdermabrasion for stretch marks is limited, but some evidence suggests it may decrease their severity.
9. Microneedling
Microneedling employs a tool that produces very small punctures in the skin. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, potentially tightening lax skin.
In-office microneedling penetrates deeper than home devices and targets the skin’s repair mechanisms more effectively and safely.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive option to improve the texture of stretch marks, including older ones, and may help even out skin tone.
10. Radiofrequency therapy
Radiofrequency treatments use energy waves to encourage collagen formation, which can lead to firmer skin.
Recently, radiofrequency has been combined with microneedling to deliver energy deeper into the skin. The needles create channels that allow radiofrequency energy to reach deeper collagen layers.
Additional research suggests radiofrequency may enhance the appearance of stretch marks, but more studies are needed to compare it with other treatments.
11. Chemical peel
Chemical peels apply acids such as glycolic acid to the skin surface. Professional peels performed in-office are stronger than over-the-counter versions.
Peels exfoliate deeply and can promote collagen formation, which may make stretch marks appear smaller, although the evidence is limited.
Overall, clinical procedures usually produce better results than home remedies, but they’re often not covered by insurance and can be expensive.
Not every option suits every skin type, so consult a dermatologist to determine what’s appropriate for you.
Who gets stretch marks?
Stretch marks can affect anyone, but some people are at higher risk. Genetics is a strong predictor — if family members have stretch marks, you’re more likely to develop them.
Pregnancy is a frequent cause. Research from 2015 suggests that a large proportion of pregnant people will develop stretch marks.
Other risk factors include:
- use of corticosteroid medications
- rapid weight loss or gain
- breast augmentation surgery
- rapid muscle enlargement, such as from intense bodybuilding
Outlook
Keep in mind that stretch marks are common. Many of the changes that cause them — growth spurts, weight changes, and pregnancy — are normal life events experienced by many people.
There’s no perfect home remedy, but topical care can improve hydration and support the skin’s healing. For both natural approaches and medical procedures, more research is required to determine which are most effective and who is most likely to benefit.
If your stretch marks are pregnancy-related, check with your healthcare provider before using any treatment to make sure it’s safe. For pregnancy-specific product guidance, see pregnancy best stretch mark creams for pregnancy.
Almost all stretch marks will fade with time, even without treatment. It’s uncommon for them to remain as noticeable as when they first appear.
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