Let's face it: Most of us have stretch marks. 

"Stretch marks are a common form of scarring that results in thinned areas of skin in linear striations where there is skin stretching or tension," explained dermatologist Jennifer MacGregor. 

Dr. MacGregor noted stretch marks most commonly crop up on the breasts, arms, abdomen, back, and thighs. Although they're nothing to be ashamed of, many aren't as comfortable as, say, Ashley Graham flaunting stretchies on social media.

If you're looking for ways to remove your stretch marks, you may have noticed plenty of products and treatments promising to do just that. However, the hard truth is that no matter what any cream, oil, or serum claims, data — according to Dr. MacGregor — from controlled trials are lacking to prove these benefits, with her adding that there are no treatments that can prevent or completely erase stretch marks. So, what does work?

Keep reading for five expert-approved ways to treat stretch marks.

Apply a Topical

When it comes to reducing the appearance of stretch marks, stick with products that will guarantee an increase in collagen production. 

"All therapies are aimed at creating healthy collagen to thicken and smooth the affected areas so they blend with the surrounding skin better," said Dr. MacGregor.

Topical creams and ointments are a quick and easy way to treat stretch marks. She recommended tretinoin, a topical retinoid, which is proven to effectively stimulate collagen production and blend stretch marks. Just keep in mind that tretinoin is potent, with a common side effect being irritation, so don't overdo it.

Take a Collagen Supplement

This just in — yes, you can use face treatments on other areas of your body. A non-topical treatment? Collagen powder, such as Viral Proteins Collagen Peptides Advanced ($30), which you can add to drinks or smoothies (even Jennifer Aniston is a fan). Not only can it help to reduce stretch marks, but it may also give you glowy skin.

VIDEO: People Are Praising Khloé Kardashian for Showing Off Her Stretch Marks

Consider a Laser Treatment

Perhaps the most effective (albeit the most expensive) way of reducing the appearance of stretch marks is dermatologist-administered laser treatment. The science behind the laser treatments is the same idea as the topicals: You're looking for healthy collagen production.

"Lasers and energy devices that stimulate new and healthy collagen to thicken dermal skin will improve the appearance of stretch marks," said Dr. MacGregor. "These include fractional resurfacing lasers — nonablative and ablative."

Which lasers you use will depend on the kind and color of your stretch marks. Striae rubra or red and purple marks are easier to address. Dr. MacGregor suggested this is because these "active" stretch marks can be treated using vascular lasers that minimize inflammation and fade discoloration, along with fractional resurfacing lasers to keep them from expanding.

You can also use laser treatments in tandem with topicals. Dr. MacGregor said that the lasers create "microscopic channels" in the skin that allow topicals to penetrate the skin better, which aids in more collage production.

Try Microneedling

Microneedling devices with radio frequency heat is another treatment for stretch marks, Dr. MacGregor told us. Morpheus8 and Vivace, the most popular of these treatments, trigger collagen production, which may help to fade stretch marks and smooth their texture.

Opt for Injectables

Radiesse and Sculptra are two injectables that smooth the texture of raised stretch marks. Radiesse uses calcium hydroxylapatite to create instant volume, while Sculptra uses poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) to build volume gradually. Both improve collagen over time — although only temporarily (read: a year or two).

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What causes stretch marks?

    Age, genetics, stress, body size and shape, skin type, hormonal factors, pregnancy, growth spurts, recent surgery, and body placement are all contributing factors to the cause or severity of stretch marks, noted Dr. MacGregor.

  • What are the different types of stretch marks?

    "'Striae rubra' are red to purple stretch marks that are considered active, inflamed, and expanding," Dr. MacGregor explained. "These become striae Alba (old, white/skin colored/or shiny stretch marks) that represent older, inactive stretch marks. The latter are thin areas of skin that are deficient in healthy collagen, like stretched or 'atrophic' scars."

  • How long does it take for stretch marks to fade?

    In general, they can take at least three months to begin fading. Some stretch marks that are darker in color can gradually get lighter over the course of a year or more.

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