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Are there any prescription treatments for stretch marks?

Stretch marks, or striae, form when your skin is continuously stretched as it is during pregnancy, with weight changes, growth spurts, or while weight lifting. Initially, stretch marks can appear pink or purple in color, but often fade with time and become less noticeable. While stretch marks are not considered dangerous, many people find them unsightly.

Some studies suggest that tretinoin (brand names Renova and Retin-A) may be effective in improving the appearance of stretch marks. In one study of 22 people, 40 to 80 percent reported an improvement in the appearance of stretch marks after using tretinoin for six months. In another study, 15 out of the 16 people who used it saw improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks. Side effects of tretinoin include skin irritation, dry skin, stinging, sun sensitivity, and peeling.

In some situations, your doctor or dermatologist may recommend laser surgery to improve the appearance of stretch marks.

Sources:
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.
Elson, M. "Treatment of striae distensae with topical tretinoin," Dermatology and Surgical Oncology 16 (1990).
Kang S. "The Evolving Role of Retinoids in the Management of Cutaneous Conditions", Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 39 (1998).
Alster TS. "Laser Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars, Keloids, and Striae", Dermatologic Clinics, 15 (1997).
Gabbe: Obstetrics-Normal and Problem Pregnancies. Churchill Livingstone, Inc., 1996.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.

This answer prepared 1/18/2001.
This information updated 1/10/2007.