They’re so normal that even Meghan Markle proudly sports them! However, if you’ve ever wondered why they make your skin so itchy, or how to fade them, Dermatologist for Palmer’s Dr Liz Dawes-Higgs answers all your common stretch mark questions

• What are stretch marks, and what causes them to form on the skin?

Stretch marks, or striae, are tears in the dermal layer of the skin. They occur when the skin is rapidly over-stretched, causing destruction to elastin fibres and disruption to the skin’s natural collagen production. Generally, speaking, stretch marks start as red to purple coloured marks on your skin. They then lighten in colour over time. They become paler and more scar-like in appearance.

• Why do they itch so much?

The itchy feeling is related to the tearing of the skin which leads to a healing process of the dermis.

• Are there certain factors that make some individuals more prone to developing stretch marks than others?

Stretch marks are common, non-specific of gender and occur at a variety of life stages. You are more susceptible to developing stretch marks during times of your life when your skin is changing. Such as pregnancy, puberty or weight changes (including body building).

• What role do lifestyle factors like diet, hydration, and exercise play in developing – or conversely – preventing or minimising stretch marks?

A balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise and skin care can all help with overall health and potentially reducing the risk of developing stretch marks. Early treatment can also be more effective when managing stretch marks. That’s why during times of rapid skin changes, like pregnancy, it is beneficial to start using highly moisturising products early. This can help support the skin’s elasticity as it stretches, as well as adequate hydration and maintaining a healthy diet.

• What are some common misconceptions about stretch marks, and what would you like people to understand about them?

A common misconception is that only women develop stretch marks as we often link them to pregnancy. However, men can develop them too. I personally quite often see teenage boys develop them during puberty.

• What are the most effective treatments available for reducing the appearance of stretch marks?

While it’s perfectly fine to leave as is (as some people may choose), skin care routine adjustments can be made to support your skin through the life stages mentioned. And, to reduce the appearance of stretch marks when they occur. Topical treatments with ingredients like cocoa butter, collagen, centella asiatica and vitamin e can help to improve the appearance of stretch marks. They can come in a variety of formats (lotions, oils, creams and butters).

• Finally, one of the most FAQ is how to fade stretch marks … So what should you look for in a beauty product – such as Palmer’s – or treatment that claims to make them disappear?

While researchers are exploring emerging treatments, such as radiofrequency, which has shown some potential in affecting dermal collagen, procedures such as lasers and microneedling typically require multiple sessions at the moment. And are quite invasive and can be costly. There are also side effects with these treatments such as redness and swelling and in rare cases even scarring. This is why they certainly wouldn’t be a recommended first step.

Instead, I personally would look for topical treatments and products with science and studies backing the effectiveness of their ingredients, and those that have been around and trusted for some time. I also look for ethically sourced ingredients. Avoiding Vitamin A (Retinol) in pregnancy is also recommended.