Understanding your daughter’s stretch marks

Why they happen and how to help

Quick summary

• Stretch marks are very common in teenagers, especially during growth spurts or puberty
• They often fade over time without treatment
• As creams and treatments are not super effective, emotional support is really important here and luna can be there offering support should you wish to gift a membership to your daughter

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There are so many changes that happen during puberty, and it can be pretty confusing for your teen to know what’s normal and what they should be concerned about. 

Plus, the pressure from social media to have the perfect body can make everything feel even more intense. 

For many teens, stretch marks feel like a big deal. But the truth is, they’re incredibly common and nothing to be ashamed of. 

So let’s talk about it.

Why does your daughter have stretch marks?

Stretch marks happen when the skin is stretched quickly, and the collagen and elastin (the parts of skin that keep it firm) can’t keep up.

For teens, this usually happens because of:

• Puberty and growth spurts: growing taller or gaining curves quickly
• Weight changes: gaining or losing weight in a short period of time
• Genetics: if you had stretch marks, your teen is more likely to get them too

They often appear on the thighs, hips, breasts, or tummy. 

Stretch marks are completely harmless and part of normal development.

Will your daughter’s stretch marks go away?

Stretch marks don’t usually disappear completely, but they almost always fade over time. 

At first, they may look red, purple, or dark brown (depending on skin tone), but gradually they lighten and become much less noticeable. 

Most teens find that, with patience, their stretch marks become less of a focus as they blend into the skin.

How do girls get rid of stretch marks?

There isn’t a guaranteed “cure” for stretch marks, but there are options that may improve their appearance:

• Moisturising regularly: although creams and oils may not completely prevent stretch marks, keeping skin hydrated can help it feel better
• Over-the-counter creams: some claim to fade marks, but results vary so avoid anything that makes grand claims!
• Medical treatments: if stretch marks are very noticeable and affecting confidence, sometimes doctors can offer treatments by referral such as laser therapy

However, these treatments have quite a limited effect on stretch marks, and time is the best healer.

Although adults sometimes use it for stretch marks, you should avoid retinol for teen skin, as it’s usually too harsh for them. 

Supporting your teen's confidence

As treatments for stretch marks are not that reliable, focusing on instilling body confidence and acceptance can be a great way to support your teen. 

Social media often shows the “perfect skin”, which can make your teen feel insecure and have low self-esteem. 

You can help by:

• Normalising stretch marks – lots of teens and adults have them, including athletes and celebrities
• Avoiding negative comments about their body or your own
• Reminding them that stretch marks are not a flaw, just a sign of growth and development
• Encouraging activities and hobbies that build self-esteem beyond appearance like positive affirmations, or skill-building

Helping your teen feel at home in their skin

Stretch marks are a normal part of growing up, and while your daughter may not love them now, with time, they’ll fade and become less noticeable. 

As treatments for stretch marks may not be effective, it may be useful to explore ways to help a teen with body image issues and focus more on what is on the inside rather than what is on the outside!

Apps like luna can also offer gentle advice and tools for supporting your teen’s body confidence during these changes. 

Rated 4.8

Support your teen through it all with luna

Find out more