Do Stretch Marks Go Away?
Do stretch marks go away? Stretch marks are a normal part of growing and affect 90% of the population. They often occur during pregnancy, puberty, or weight gain. Apart from occasionally feeling itchy, stretch marks are completely harmless and nothing to worry about. The question is, do stretch marks go away naturally?
Similar to scars, stretch marks can be either permanent or fade over time. Fortunately, there are treatments to improve the appearance of stretch marks. Ahead, we will explore the question, “Can stretch marks go away?” and the best treatment options.
Do Stretch Marks Go Away?
Stretch marks will not completely disappear, but they often fade over time. Scientifically known as striae, stretch marks occur when the skin stretches rapidly—or shrinks rapidly—causing collagen and elastin fibers in the skin to tear which results in the formation of long scars known as stretch marks.
Over time, stretch marks tend to fade on their own. Initially, they might show up as red or purple lines on your skin, especially after periods of puberty, pregnancy, weight loss, or rapid weight gain. As the months and years go by, these marks often lighten in color, taking on a silvery-white appearance.
While stretch marks may not completely disappear on their own, their visibility often diminishes, and they become less prominent. The extent of fading can vary from person to person. It’s important to note that while the natural fading process occurs, there are also various dermatological treatments available that may help improve the appearance of stretch marks, such as topical retinoids, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and microneedling.
How Long Does it Take Stretch Marks to Go Away?
It can take anywhere from several months to several years for stretch marks to fade. How long stretch marks take to fade varies from person to person and depends on a few factors.
1. Skin Tone: Darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmented stretch marks, which typically take longer to fade compared to lighter skin tones.
2. Age of the Stretch Marks: New stretch marks are easier to fade compared to older stretch marks. That’s because striae distensae begin red due to blood vessels being present under the skin, making red stretch marks more responsive to treatment.
3. Your Healing Capacity: Everyone heals at different rates. Some people will see faster results than others if their skin repairs and regenerates more efficiently.
Do stretch marks go away over time? Most stretch marks start fading within several months after they first appear. However, complete fading of stretch marks can take up to several years.
Do Stretch Marks Ever Fully Fade?
Stretch marks may fade naturally over time but they will not go away completely. Using topical treatments can help get rid of stretch marks as long as you’re consistent. There are many creams, lotions, and other skin care products designed especially for stretch marks. While they may not fade stretch marks completely, they will significantly improve their appearance when you use them in your daily skincare routine.
Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or shea butter to plump out lines. You should also choose formulas that boost collagen production and increase elasticity to firm and tighten the skin, such as retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide.
Do Stretch Marks Go Away After Losing Weight?
Stretch marks from weight gain are not likely to go away if you lose weight. Losing weight will not make much a difference to the appearance of stretch marks. That said, stretch marks can heal over time (especially fresh ones). Older stretch marks are more difficult to address.
You can prevent stretch marks by maintaining your weight (or not rapidly gaining or losing weight). However, stretch marks won’t go away if you lose weight. You will need to rely on topical treatments or in-office procedures if you want to reduce their visibility.
How to Fade Your Stretch Marks FAST
We get it. Stretch marks can be stubborn and annoying. Luckily, we’ve got plenty of products that can soften the appearance of stretch marks and unlock your smoothest skin. Scroll through these scar fading superstars and treat yourself!
Best for: Stretch Marks on Boobs
Truly’s For Your Boobs Routine
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Clinically proven to improve skin texture within four weeks of daily use. This Acai Your Boobies duo features a boob polish and serum formulated with retinol and acai to firm, tighten, lift, and smooth your boobs. With a sensual blackberry scent you won’t be able to resist.
Best for: Stretch Marks on Thighs
Truly’s Cake Maker Recipe
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This cake-scented trio targets cellulite and stretch marks with a lineup of plumping ceramides, vegan collagen booster, and polyglutamic acid. You’ll get: a polish, cream, and serum for a stretch mark fading routine in just three delicious steps.
Best for: Stretch Marks on Butt
Truly’s For Your Buns Bundle
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Do stretch marks go away? They can—with the right treatment! Give your tush a push with this Buns of Glowry bestseller. It features a butt serum + butt polish—clinically proven to improve skin tone and texture. With watermelon’s hydrating effects and wheat protein’s plumping powers, this 2-step routine can soften stretch marks while giving your booty a natural lift.
Best for: Stretch Marks on Belly
Truly’s Dulce De Leches Routine
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This 3-step kit comes with a powerful anti-aging lineup of resurfacing retinol, plumping hyaluronic acid, and smoothing cocoa butter to lift and firm your boobs and belly. With a deeply indulgent just-baked, warm caramel fragrance you’ll love.
With so many over-the-counter options such as stretch mark creams, masks, and serums, there are plenty of ways you can fade stretch marks over time. The secret is being consistent! Consult with a dermatologist if you’re interested in pursuing in-office procedures such as laser treatments or microneedling. They’ll be able to advise you on the best option for you and any potential side effects.
Do stretch marks go away? Stretch marks can go away naturally over time but they may never disappear completely. Stay consistent with topical treatments and you will see a gradual improvement within a few weeks to months.
Watch our butt facial tutorial to fade stretch marks:
