Skin concerns

Stretch marks

Parallel lines in the skin associated with rapid distension (growth, pregnancy, weight gain). Very common and benign. There are options that improve the look.

What are stretch marks

Striations are small linear scars that arise when the skin is distended quickly, with rupture of collagen fibers and elastin in the dermis. They are extremely common — in many periods of life (adolescence, pregnancy, weight changes).

They are benign and without repercussions on general health, but sometimes cause aesthetic discomfort. There are options that mitigate the appearance — especially in the early stages.

Stretch marks phases

  • Inflammatory streaks (rubras) — recent, reddish or violacea colour. They may have slight itching.
  • Mature striations (albas) — old, white or pearly, with a depressed appearance.
  • The initial stages respond better to treatment — hence the importance of intervening early.

Causes

  • Fast growth — adolescence, with growth spurts.
  • Pregnancy — especially in the third trimester.
  • Gaining or losing weight
  • Rapid increase in muscle mass.
  • Hormonal alterations
  • Prolonged use of certain medicines (to be discussed with the doctor).
  • Individual and genetic predisposition.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is clinical — the appearance is characteristic. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs of affected areas in good lighting and a questionnaire on evolution and context.

Options for treatment

The results are better in the (recent) rubles. No treatment completely returns the skin to the original state — the goal is to attenuate.

Topical application

Formulations applied at home, indicated by the dermatologist. They require consistent use for months and are more useful in the initial phase.

Dermatological procedures

In selected cases, there are office procedures that can improve appearance — more effective in young stretch marks. Case-by-case assessments.

Basic care

Daily hydration, good photoprotection in the red streaks exposed to the sun. Important maintenance strategies.

Talk to a dermatologist about your stretch marks

No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.

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Prevention

  • Avoid very fast weight variations.
  • Moisturize the skin well during pregnancy or growth phases.
  • Proper nutrition — skin health depends on nutrients.
  • Gentle massage in prone areas.
  • There is no guarantee — individual predisposition is the most important factor.

Frequently asked questions

Can they disappear completely?

Nope. No treatment returns the skin to its original condition. What is possible is to mitigate the appearance, especially in the most recent stretch marks.

Is it better to treat early?

Yes, very much. The red streaks (recent) respond better. Once white (mature), the possible improvement is more limited.

Is online consultation for stretch marks?

Yeah. The dermatologist evaluates the phase and proposes the plan — topic and/or orientation for face-to-face procedures if applicable.

Pharmacy creams prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?

They help keep the skin hydrated, which is positive. But the evidence that they completely prevent is limited — individual predisposition remains the dominant factor.

Improve the appearance of your stretch marks

Send photographs in good lighting. A dermatologist evaluates the phase and proposes the plan.