Stretch marks are thought to affect 80% of women and 40% of men. Unsightly and often a source of real self-consciousness — especially once they’ve turned white — there are solutions to make white stretch marks less visible.
What are white stretch marks?
Stretch marks are skin irregularities caused by sudden and rapid stretching of the skin. As a result, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to spontaneous tearing of the deep dermis — the layer of skin between the epidermis and the hypodermis. When they first appear, stretch marks take the form of streaks resembling elongated scars. These lesions can develop on various parts of the body.
Generally speaking, stretch marks come in two types based on their colour: red stretch marks and white stretch marks. In reality, they are the same stretch marks at different stages. Red stretch marks are recent, so-called “immature” stretch marks. Their colour comes from the inflammatory response triggered by the tearing of collagen fibres within the skin.
After the inflammation phase, the skin begins its regeneration process to replace damaged skin cells. However, these new support cells form thinner, less pigmented tissue with a slightly sunken appearance — giving rise to white stretch marks. In other words, they are simply the same red stretch marks that have changed colour over time. At this stage, they are considered “mature” and more difficult to treat. That said, it is still possible to reduce the appearance of white stretch marks, which is exactly what we’ll explore in this article.
What causes white stretch marks?
Stretch marks can sometimes be linked to medical conditions. For example, stretch marks associated with Cushing’s syndrome are caused by an excess of corticosteroids — they tend to be wide and vertical. There are also “classic” stretch marks, unrelated to any health condition, which are finer and less noticeable.
White stretch marks can have several causes. Among the most common are weight fluctuations and pregnancy. Between 75 and 90% of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and rapid weight gain. Obesity is also a leading cause, as it is associated with multiple hormonal imbalances and excessive weight gain that can trigger stretch marks.
Beyond pregnancy and obesity, the breakdown of collagen fibres that leads to white stretch marks can also be triggered by stress. In stressful situations, the body secretes cortisol, which increases the likelihood of stretch marks developing.
Which areas of the body are affected by white stretch marks?
The areas of the body most commonly affected by white stretch marks differ slightly between women and men.
- In women, they tend to appear on the buttocks, thighs, abdomen and breasts.
- In men, they are more commonly found on the upper and lower back, as well as on the arms. This is often attributed to intense physical training.
The skin in these areas is not necessarily fragile, but these parts of the body are generally subject to greater tension. Despite its natural elasticity, the skin can eventually give way and tear. Boys and girls alike often develop stretch marks during adolescence, due to hormonal changes and faster, more significant muscle growth.
How to get rid of white stretch marks?
At-home solutions
Completely eliminating a white stretch mark is quite challenging. However, there are at-home methods that can visibly reduce their appearance.
Anti-stretch mark creams
One of the most effective ways to reduce white stretch marks is to apply a dedicated cream. These products work by nourishing the skin and encouraging it to regenerate. Regular, consistent moisturising is strongly recommended. Results take time to become visible, so patience is key. Opting for a natural formula is always a good idea. In addition to minimising the appearance of white stretch marks, these creams hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity. For sensitive skin, hypoallergenic anti-stretch mark creams are also available.
Our Anti-Stretch Mark Cream is the perfect ally in the fight against stretch marks, helping to improve skin elasticity. Enriched with macadamia oil to support skin cell regeneration, and provitamin B5 to stimulate collagen production and strengthen the skin’s elasticity.
Anti-stretch mark oils
Anti-stretch mark oils are another effective option for tackling white stretch marks. For best results, apply them generously morning and evening to the areas being treated as well as any at-risk zones. After application, massage the skin to help the oil absorb. Use circular movements and pay extra attention to all affected areas. Unlike creams, anti-stretch mark oils penetrate the skin more easily as they contain no water.
To help you tackle white stretch marks, Cellublue has developed a specialist oil designed to prevent and reduce all types of stretch marks. This oil is formulated with 4 plant-based oils recognised for their effectiveness on stretch marks:
- Sesame oil: promotes stretch mark healing and soothes irritation
- Jojoba oil: offers anti-mark, healing, moisturising and nourishing properties
- Sweet almond oil: softens the skin and provides deep hydration
- Sunflower oil: soothes and helps repair the skin
Exfoliating treatments
Regular exfoliation is another approach that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Sloughing away dead skin cells encourages the skin to renew itself. It also allows any anti-stretch mark products applied afterwards to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively.
Our Anti-Stretch Mark Scrub contains active ingredients such as wheat germ oil, which supports cell renewal for smoother, more radiant skin. Its texture transforms into a delicate creamy foam in the shower, for a gentle full-body exfoliation.
Medical treatments
For those looking to reduce white stretch marks, medical treatment is also an option. It is, however, considerably more expensive. And for some techniques, results can be disappointing. Before committing, it’s worth carefully weighing up the pros and cons to avoid wasting time and money.
Microdermabrasion
One of the available alternatives is microdermabrasion. This is a mechanical peeling technique aimed at fading stretch marks. To encourage skin regeneration, aluminium microcrystals are projected onto the areas being treated, creating micro-injuries. This process helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks while leaving the skin smoother and firmer to the touch. Depending on the case, a microdermabrasion session can last up to an hour and costs between €60 and €150.
Micro-needling
Another effective solution for reducing stretch marks is micro-needling. This technique works by triggering an inflammatory response in the skin to stimulate the healing process. The practitioner first applies a local anaesthetic before using a rotating cylinder fitted with rows of micro-needles. The treatment is completed with the application of silicon. Sessions typically cost between €150 and €300.
Laser therapy
Another option is laser therapy. Lasers used for this purpose are specifically designed to treat skin lesions without affecting the surrounding tissue. Results vary depending on the type of laser used. Some smooth the skin over mature stretch marks, while others repigment them or tighten the scar tissue. The choice of laser is made by the practitioner based on each patient’s individual needs. Sessions are estimated to cost between €150 and €300.
You now have a full overview of the natural and medical solutions available to reduce your white stretch marks.
