Skin Science

10 Things No One Tells You About Stretch Marks

Start your repair programme

But you wish they did.

5 min read

Stretch marks are one of those things most people have — yet no one talks about openly. They appear quietly, linger longer than expected, and often come with more confusion than clarity. If you've ever searched "how to get rid of stretch marks" late at night, this is for you.

01

Stretch marks aren't just a pregnancy thing

Stretch marks aren't just a pregnancy thing
01

Stretch marks aren't just a pregnancy thing

Weight changes, growth spurts, muscle gain, hormones, and genetics all play a role. Pregnancy is only one of many triggers.

02

They form beneath the surface of the skin

They form beneath the surface of the skin
02

They form beneath the surface of the skin

Stretch marks develop in the dermis, the deeper layer of skin. That's why basic moisturisers that only hydrate the surface often fall short.

03

Newer stretch marks respond differently than older ones

Newer stretch marks respond differently than older ones
03

Newer stretch marks respond differently than older ones

Early stretch marks appear red or purple and are generally more responsive. Supporting collagen and elasticity earlier leads to more noticeable improvement over time.

04

Cocoa butter doesn’t do what people think

Cocoa butter doesn’t do what people think
04

Cocoa butter doesn’t do what people think

Clinical studies have shown cocoa butter does not significantly prevent or improve stretch marks once they’ve formed. It can help with hydration and comfort – but not structural repair.

05

Genetics play a bigger role than most people realise

Genetics play a bigger role than most people realise
05

Genetics play a bigger role than most people realise

Some skin types are simply more prone to stretch marks due to collagen structure. This is biology, not something you caused.

06

Only a few ingredients have strong clinical backing

Only a few ingredients have strong clinical backing
06
Clinically Backed

Only a few ingredients have strong clinical backing

Among the most studied are tretinoin (a prescription retinoid) and TECA, a science-backed Centella extract shown to support skin repair and collagen activity beneath the surface.

07

Microneedling is one of the few options with evidence

Microneedling is one of the few options with evidence
07
Evidence-Based

Microneedling is one of the few options with evidence

Microneedling activates the skin’s natural repair response and improves delivery of topical actives. Studies have shown it can be more effective than laser treatments for improving stretch marks.

08

Consistency matters more than intensity

Consistency matters more than intensity
08

Consistency matters more than intensity

Using the right formula daily for weeks beats aggressive treatments you can’t maintain. Skin remodelling responds to repetition, not extremes.

09

You can support skin repair at home – it just takes time

You can support skin repair at home – it just takes time
09

You can support skin repair at home – it just takes time

Consistent at-home care can activate the same repair pathways more gradually. Topical formulas with clinically studied actives like TECA can support renewal beneath the surface without downtime.

10

You don’t have to “just live with them”

You don’t have to “just live with them”
10

You don’t have to “just live with them”

Acceptance matters – but so does having options. With the right tools and consistency, the look and feel of stretch marks can meaningfully improve over time.