No-there is currently no proven way to completely get rid of stretch marks once they have formed. Stretch marks are a type of permanent skin scarring. However, many treatments can make them less noticeable by improving color, texture, and skin thickness, especially when they are new.

In practical terms, stretch marks can often be faded, softened, and blended into surrounding skin, but not erased.

That distinction matters, because much of the confusion online comes from products or procedures implying total removal, which is not supported by medical evidence.

This question trends globally for three main reasons:

  1. Social media visibility Short-form video platforms frequently promote “before-and-after” transformations that exaggerate results or rely on lighting, filters, or time gaps.

  2. Increased use of cosmetic procedures Lasers, microneedling, and radiofrequency treatments are more accessible worldwide, prompting people to ask whether newer technologies can finally eliminate stretch marks.

  3. Post-weight-change and post-pregnancy searches Global shifts in lifestyle, fitness, and pregnancy-related content drive renewed interest in body changes and reversibility.

The result is a surge of mixed messages-some realistic, many overstated.

What’s Confirmed vs. What’s Unclear

What’s Confirmed

  • Stretch marks (striae) are dermal scars caused by rapid stretching of the skin.
  • They form when collagen and elastin fibers tear.
  • Early stretch marks (red, purple, or pink) respond better to treatment than older ones (white or silvery).
  • No topical product can remove them entirely.

What’s Still Unclear

  • Why some people develop severe stretch marks while others do not under similar conditions.
  • Which treatment combination works best for a specific skin type without trial and error.
  • Long-term comparative effectiveness between newer energy-based devices.

What People Are Getting Wrong

  • “This cream removes stretch marks” False. Moisturizers can improve skin texture and dryness but do not reverse scarring.

  • “Lasers erase stretch marks” Incorrect. Lasers can reduce contrast and stimulate collagen, but marks remain.

  • “Natural oils prevent or cure them” There is no solid evidence that oils prevent stretch marks, though they may reduce itching during skin stretching.

  • “Only weight gain causes stretch marks” Genetics, hormones, puberty, pregnancy, muscle growth, and corticosteroid use all play roles.

Real-World Impact (Everyday Scenarios)

Scenario 1: Post-pregnancy A person notices red stretch marks on the abdomen three months after delivery. Early treatment with prescription retinoids (if not breastfeeding), microneedling, or laser therapy can significantly fade them over time. Complete removal should not be expected.

Scenario 2: Rapid muscle gain A gym-goer develops stretch marks on shoulders and arms. These marks may fade naturally within a year. Treatments can help, but aggressive intervention is rarely necessary unless appearance causes distress.

Benefits, Risks, and Limitations of Common Treatments

Treatments That Can Help (Partially)

  • Topical retinoids: Improve early stretch marks; not suitable during pregnancy.
  • Microneedling: Stimulates collagen; requires multiple sessions.
  • Laser therapy: Reduces redness or improves texture depending on laser type.
  • Radiofrequency devices: Moderate improvement in skin firmness.

Risks and Limits

  • Results vary by skin tone and age of stretch marks.
  • Multiple sessions are usually required.
  • Costs can be high and outcomes gradual.
  • Over-treatment can cause pigmentation issues, especially in darker skin tones.

What to Watch Next

  • Incremental improvements in combination therapies (e.g., microneedling plus topical agents).
  • Better personalization based on skin biology rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
  • More realistic clinical data replacing influencer-led claims.

No credible research suggests a breakthrough “cure” is imminent.

What You Can Ignore Safely

  • Products claiming 100% removal
  • One-week transformation promises
  • Viral hacks without clinical backing
  • Comparisons using different lighting or angles

If it sounds absolute, it likely is inaccurate.

Do stretch marks go away naturally? They often fade in color over time but do not disappear.

Can exercise remove stretch marks? Exercise improves muscle tone but does not remove dermal scars.

Are stretch marks a health problem? No. They are purely cosmetic and medically harmless.

Do men get stretch marks? Yes. Commonly during puberty or muscle growth.