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Stretch marks

Overview

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Stretch marks look like pink, red, brown, black, silver or purple lines across the skin. They usually start off darker and fade over time.

Stretch marks are usually due to growing or gaining weight quickly. Common causes include pregnancy and growth during puberty.

Stretch marks often fade over time without treatment. There’s little evidence that many creams and lotions claiming to improve stretch marks help.

Stretch marks are lines or streaks across the skin caused by the skin being stretched. They're harmless and often get less visible over time.

Page last reviewed: 07/12/2021
Next review due: 07/12/2024