Stretch marks are fine lines that look purplish or reddish when they first appear. These marks tend to show up when a person grows or gains weight very quickly. Stretch marks often appear on the breasts, thighs, hips and/or buttocks.
There’s no magic cream or pill that will make stretch marks disappear, but the good news is the marks usually fade and become less noticeable over time.
Some girls and young women use self-tanning lotions (not tanning beds) or body makeup to lessen the appearance of stretch marks. If you have severe stretch marks that affect the way you feel about your body, talk to your primary health care provider or dermatologist.
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