Treatment

Stretch marks don't require treatment. They are harmless and often fade over time. Treatment can make them fade, but they may never completely disappear.

The following treatments are among those available to help improve the appearance and texture of stretch marks. None has been proved to be more consistently successful than the others.

• Retinoid cream. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids — such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova, Avita) — that you apply to your skin may improve the appearance of stretch marks less than a few months old. Tretinoin, when it works, helps to rebuild a protein in the skin called collagen, making the stretch marks look more like your normal skin. Tretinoin can irritate your skin.

  If you're pregnant or nursing, talk with your doctor about other treatment options, because possible side effects of retinoid cream may affect the baby.

• Light and laser therapies. A variety of light and laser therapies are available that might stimulate growth of collagen or promote elasticity. Your doctor can help you determine which technique is appropriate for you.
• Microneedling. This type of treatment involves a hand-held device with tiny needles that stimulate collagen growth. This technique has less risk of pigmentation changes than does laser therapy so is the preferred initial approach for people with skin of color.

Work with your doctor to choose the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments for you. Factors to consider include:

• How long you've had the stretch marks
• Your skin type
• Convenience, as some therapies require repeated doctor visits
• Cost, as treatments to improve appearance (cosmetic therapies) often aren't covered by medical insurance
• Your expectations