Stretch marks (striae) are scars of the dermis and rarely vanish completely. Early treatment yields the best results. Topical retinoids and hyaluronic acid can help newer marks; in-office options such as microneedling, fractional lasers, radiofrequency, and PRP offer meaningful improvement but not guaranteed removal. Procedures carry risks, particularly pigment changes in darker skin. Surgical excision only removes marks in skin that will be cut away anyway. Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Why stretch marks are hard to remove

Stretch marks (striae) are scars in the dermis caused by rapid skin stretching and changes in collagen and elastin. Once the dermis is disrupted, complete removal is rarely possible. Treatments aim to reduce color, texture, and depth, not to erase marks entirely.

Best outcomes come early

Newer, red or pink stretch marks (striae rubra) respond better than older, white/silver scars (striae alba). Starting treatment when marks first appear generally gives the most noticeable improvements.

Topical treatments

Topical retinoids (for example, tretinoin) can improve appearance of early stretch marks by stimulating collagen production. They are not safe during pregnancy and should be avoided on the breasts while breastfeeding unless a clinician advises otherwise. Hyaluronic acid-based creams and moisturizers can improve skin texture and hydration but have limited ability to erase established scars. Cocoa butter and many over-the-counter creams may help skin comfort but lack strong evidence for removing stretch marks.

In-office procedures that show benefit

  • Microneedling (collagen induction therapy) stimulates dermal remodeling and has consistent evidence for improving texture and depth.
  • Fractional lasers (nonablative and ablative variants) and pulsed dye lasers can reduce redness and improve collagen; different lasers target different aspects of striae. Expect improvement rather than elimination.
  • Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling combines thermal and mechanical stimulation and is widely used for thicker or older marks.
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is often paired with microneedling to enhance healing and collagen formation.
Procedural treatments can give meaningful aesthetic gains but require several sessions and carry risks: redness, pigment changes (especially in darker skin), and, rarely, scarring. Discuss risks and expected results with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Less-proven and limited options

Microdermabrasion and chemical peels may smooth superficial texture but generally offer modest benefit for established stretch marks. Endermologie and other mechanical massage therapies lack strong, consistent evidence for long-term improvement.

Surgical removal

Surgical excision (for example, as part of an abdominoplasty) removes stretch-marked skin only when that area will be cut away anyway. It isn't a general cure for marks elsewhere on the body.

Practical advice and prevention

Maintain steady, healthy weight changes, hydrate skin, and use emollients to reduce itching and improve comfort. If you're pregnant or planning pregnancy, consult your clinician before using topical retinoids or undergoing in-office procedures.

Bottom line

Stretch marks are usually permanent scars, but modern topical and procedural treatments can meaningfully reduce their appearance - especially when started early. No current treatment reliably guarantees total removal.

FAQs about Get Rid Of Stretch Marks

Can stretch marks be completely removed?
Complete removal is uncommon. Most treatments reduce color, texture, and depth; early intervention gives the best results.
Are topical creams like cocoa butter effective?
Moisturizers and cocoa butter can improve comfort and skin texture but have limited evidence for removing established stretch marks.
Is tretinoin safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Topical retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, avoid application to the breasts and consult a clinician before use.
Which in-office treatment works best?
No single procedure guarantees results. Microneedling, fractional lasers, and RF microneedling show consistent improvement, and combining treatments (for example microneedling plus PRP) can enhance outcomes.
Can laser treatments cause problems in darker skin?
Yes. Lasers and some peels can cause hyperpigmentation or other pigment changes in darker skin tones; choose providers experienced treating diverse skin types.