But first, what are stretch marks?

Stretch marks, (a.k.a. striae), are basically scars that appear when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly (cue all of the reasons we mentioned above). “Our skin produces new collagen as we grow. However, in times of rapid stretching like puberty, weight gain, and pregnancy, this process happens more quickly than our skin can compensate for,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. When this happens, collagen and elastin in your skin rupture. “The body tries to mend damage that occurred in the deep layers of the skin, but the new collagen created to replace the damage sometimes has a different texture, which results in a raised or indented scar,” says dermatologist Dendy Engleman, MD.

Some people are even more prone to developing stretch marks if they run in the fam. “If your mom and dad or siblings have stretch marks, you could be more prone to having them too,” says Dr. Zeichner. Stretch marks can even be caused by extended use of topical steroids for the treatment of conditions like eczema and psoriasis. 

Not in love with your stretch marks? Here are some ways you can fade them effectively.

1. Rub on Some Retinol

You may be familiar with retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, that’s commonly used in acne and anti-aging treatments but as it turns out, topical retinol can help improve the look of stretch marks too. “Retinol enhances cell turnover and stimulates collagen production which helps improve the appearance of stretch marks,” recommends Dr. Zeichner. Talk to your derm about whether a prescription-strength retinoid is right for you. For something less intense, snag a retinol packed lotion OTC. Just be careful if you’ve got sensitive skin (and it’s a no-no if you’re preggo). And, as always, be sure to slather SPF before you go out in the sun. 

2. Add Caffeine to Your Body Care

While it isn’t a permanent fix, caffeine can help give stretchies a temporary facelift. “Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, which means that it reduces redness and swelling, and prevents fluid from pooling under the surface of your skin (if applied topically), giving skin a firmer appearance and reducing the visibility of stretch marks,” says Dr. Engleman,

3. Look to In-Office Lasers

“Lasers can improve the look of stretch marks, though they won’t get rid of them altogether,” says Dr. Zeichner. According to one study, fractional lasers can help stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin and can cause repigmentation in stretch marks. “They work by creating a controlled wound in the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen and strengthening the foundation of the skin itself,” according to Dr. Zeichner. Again, you’ll want to talk to your derm about your options. “Laser and energy based treatments like radio frequency have no downtime but may cause some temporary redness, so it’s best to have these treatments done as far ahead as possible before an event. I love the NuEra Tight and Resurfx for helping with stretch marks,” says Dr. Engleman.

4. Try Microneedling

While in-office laser treatments are a more effective way to treat stretch marks at the hands of a pro, microneedling makes for a budget-friendly option. “Microneedling is a great way to treat stretch marks, as it is minimally invasive and can even be done at home. Microneedling stimulates collagen production to fill in superficial marks like stretch marks, acne scars and wrinkles, and can be paired with hyaluronic acid serums for additional plumping and hydrating benefits,” says Dr. Engelman. We’ve got an easy-to-use option below. 

5. Moisturize More

“Keeping skin moisturized ensures optimal skin functioning,” according to Dr. Zeichner. Ultra-hydrating lotions can protect skin, helping it heal and studies have shown that applying hyaluronic acid to stretch marks in their early stages can help make them less noticeable in the long run. Look for ones packed with peptides and antioxidants too. “Peptides provide important proteins and signal the body to produce more collagen, which firms skin and helps stretch marks disappear. Antioxidants combat damage from environmental aggressors, reduce signs of aging and even out skin tone,” according to Dr. Engleman.

6. Up Your Bronze

By far the easiest way to deal with stubborn stretch marks is to smooth on some self-tanner. A good bronze glow can help blur flaws and create the illusion of flawless skin. If you’re going the “out of sight out of mind” route, look for a self-tanner with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and nourishing oils that will smooth over stretch marks without settling into them.

4 Products That Can Help Fade Stretch Marks

1. KATE SOMERVILLE +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

This potent skin saver uses retinol and ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) to help firm and brighten skin while improving texture and tone. Smooth it on stretchies four times a week, alternating days for best results.

2. ORA Microneedle Face & Full Body Roller Kit

This revolutionary tool helps reduce the appearance of stretchies, acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and more. The best part? You can use it all over—head to toe! Its extremely fine needles gently penetrate your skin just enough to stimulate collagen and elastin production. No pain, pinky swear.

3. DERMELECT LIPO Contour Body Toning Cream

This super hydrating body cream is loaded with vitamin A (there’s that retinol again!) and vitamin E to nourish skin while improving the texture of stretch marks. Plus, it’s loaded with caffeine which temporarily smoothes out stretch marks and dimples to improve their look.

4. Skin Authority Sunless Tanner 

This moisture-packed self-tanning lotion is packed with vitamins C, D, E, lactic acid and squalene—all must-haves for smooth, glowing skin. Not only is it super hydrating (so it won’t dry up and settle into stretch marks), it delivers a deep golden glow that’ll help fade flaws into the background.

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