Stretch marks: what science really reveals
Purple streaks today, whitish scars tomorrow: stretch marks that many consider inevitable are actually the result of specific biological processes and can therefore be partially controlled. Discover the causes, risks, and proven solutions to prevent or mitigate them, without any miracle promises.
1. Definition and frequency
Stretch marks (stretch marks) are micro-tears in the dermis that cause lines that are initially purple (inflammatory phase) and then whitish (scarring phase). Their prevalence varies greatly: from 11% in some male populations to nearly 88% in pregnant women.
2. Formation mechanisms
- Excessive and sudden pulling. Rapid weight fluctuations, growth spurts, or gestational abdominal expansion stretch the skin beyond its elasticity; collagen fibers break, and elastin reorganizes in a disorderly manner.
- Hormonal influence. Prolonged elevation of cortisol (stress, treatment, or endocrine pathology) decreases collagen synthesis, weakening the dermal matrix.
- Genetic terrain. A naturally low density of collagen and elastin or a family history increase susceptibility.
3. How to recognize the stages of development
- Inflammatory phase red stretch marks Red or purple streaks, slightly raised; the skin may be sensitive. Dilated blood vessels cause the bright coloration (in case of sun exposure, SPF 50+ protection is essential during this phase).
- Healing phase white stretch marks Over time, the inflammation subsides; the streaks become flat, whitish, and painless. Local vascularization decreases; treatments then focus mainly on smoothing the texture and evening out the color.
4. Prevention: measures on which there is consensus
- Progressive weight stability : Maintaining slow weight changes reduces skin traction.
- Daily hydration : Emollients rich in essential fatty acids (baobab, moringa) improve tissue flexibility; their action is mainly preventive.
- Regular massage : Promotes microcirculation; use creams rich in aloe vera which intensifies fibroblast activity, promoting elastin and collagen production; and can strengthen the mechanical resistance of the dermis.
- Hormone monitoring : In patients taking corticosteroids or suffering from endocrine disorders, adjusting doses limits the weakening of connective tissue.
5. Treatment options validated in 2025
A meta-analysis published in March 2025 compares fractional CO₂ laser and microneedling: both techniques improve the appearance of stretch marks in more than 70% of patients, but laser treatment carries an eight times higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making microneedling the safest option for darker skin types.
- Topical retinoids (0.05–0.1% Tretinoin). By stimulating neo-collagenesis, they produce significant results on red stretch marks after three months of use.
- Microneedling (with or without radiofrequency). Creates micro-perforations that induce dermal remodeling; improvement can be seen after two to three sessions spaced one month apart.
- Fractional CO laser₂. Powerful ablative-thermal action, useful on white stretch marks to smooth and partially repigment, at the cost of a longer recovery time.
- PRP and combined techniques. Platelet-rich plasma injections or laser + microneedling combinations show promising results, but require further study.
Chemical peels or microdermabrasion alone offer modest benefits; they are mainly used as adjunctive treatments.
6. Frequently asked questions
- Can a cream prevent stretch marks? No formula can guarantee total prevention; regular moisturizing and massages delay the onset but do not eliminate the risk.
- Do white streaks disappear? They do not disappear completely; however, fractional technologies and microneedling can make them less noticeable (reducing their depth and improving color uniformity).
- Is diet alone sufficient? No single nutrient has been shown to have a decisive protective effect. However, vitamin D intake and a balanced diet support overall skin health, which is essential for preventing stretch marks.
