Stretch Marks of Pregnancy (Striae of Pregnancy)  Information for adults

Most stretch marks will become smaller postpartum and fade to pale flesh- or silver-colored lines over time. There are some treatments available, but their relative risks and expected benefits should be reviewed with your physician. Topical tretinoin (Retin-A®) or oral tretinoin have been used to treat dark stretch marks. These medications should not be used without using two forms of birth control, as they have been found to cause birth defects, and should not be used by lactating women. Dermabrasion has also been used by some. The pulsed dye laser (585nm) has also been found to be helpful in lightening stretch marks, but different people will have different responses.