What really helps against stretch marks?
HLN, 6 July 2025
Which remedies help against stretch marks and which don't? Dr Griet Voet assesses ten products and treatments in HLN.
In HLN, Dr Griet Voet assesses ten products and treatments for stretch marks. She explains that stretch marks are linear scars that form when the connective tissue stretches too quickly, for example during pregnancy, growth spurts or weight gain. At first they are red or purple; later they fade and become harder to treat.
Oils, lotions and scrubs keep the skin supple, but according to her they have no proven effect on stretch marks. Centella asiatica is one of the few ingredients with some evidence for prevention, although it does not work for everyone. Prescription retinoids can reduce fresh stretch marks; that evidence is lacking for over-the-counter retinol.
She names medical microneedling with radiofrequency, preferably combined with PRP, as the most effective approach. Home devices do not penetrate deeply enough for this.
Key advice
Expect oils and scrubs mainly to keep your skin supple, not to reduce stretch marks.
Preferably treat stretch marks in the red or purple phase.
Centella asiatica may help as prevention during pregnancy.
Choose medical microneedling rather than a home device.
“Stretch marks form when the connective tissue under the skin stretches too quickly” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Plasma injections (PRP) at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.