Stretch marks, also known as striae, streak or lines on the skin that appear when it rapidly expands or shrinks, often during period of weight gain, growth or pregnancy. Caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin, stretch marks can range from a faint silver colour to deeper pink, red, purple or brown and are often textured.

Stretch marks are a type of scarring, and are generally permanent. While they don't go away completely, they can often fade and become less noticeable over time — especially if the right treatments are used. “Stretch marks are incredibly common and completely natural, but many people seek ways to reduce their appearance,” says Dr Usman Qureshi, aesthetic doctor at Luxe Skin Glasgow.

“They often occur during rapid changes in body size — like pregnancy, puberty, or weight fluctuations — and are essentially tiny tears in the skin’s deeper layers.”

On the UK high street, there are several topical products that can help improve skin texture and tone. “Look for ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and centella asiatica,” Dr Qureshi advises.

“Products like Bio-Oil Skincare Oil, Palmers Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks, and The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.5% in Squalane can improve skin hydration and elasticity over time.

"While they won’t remove stretch marks, they can help them fade and blend into the surrounding skin.”

For more noticeable results, in-clinic treatments offer advanced options. “Morpheus8 uses radiofrequency microneedling to stimulate collagen production and tighten skin,” Dr Qureshi explains.

“BodyTite delivers deeper heating to remodel tissue and firm up lax areas, while Endolift uses laser energy beneath the skin to lift and smooth from within.”

“Stretch marks can’t always be erased,” he adds, “but with the right treatment plan, we can make them far less visible and help clients feel more confident in their skin.”