Stretch Marks in Men: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Updated on: 15th January, 2025

Stretch marks – those noticeable lines on the skin that can sometimes make us self-conscious. While they’re often associated with women, especially during pregnancy, men are just as susceptible. These marks, medically known as striae, can appear on men for several reasons and are completely natural. 

If you’re a man grappling with stretch marks or want to prevent them, this article is your go-to guide. By exploring their causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options, we aim to help you take the best care of your skin.

Stretch marks are tiny tears in the middle layer of your skin, called the dermis. They occur when your skin stretches or shrinks rapidly, exceeding its natural elasticity. Examples include rapid growth during puberty, quick weight changes, or sudden muscle gain. 

Initially, stretch marks appear pink, red, purple, or even dark brown, depending on your skin tone. Over time, they fade to a silvery or whitish colour. Stretch marks are not harmful, but they might be a cosmetic concern for some.

While stretch marks might be less common in men than in women, they do occur. Here are the main reasons why men develop stretch marks. 

1. Rapid Weight Gain or Weight Loss 

Skin needs time to adjust to changes in your body. Sudden weight gain stretches it quickly, while rapid weight loss can leave it sagging. Stretch marks are particularly common in men who experience rapid weight cycling due to fad diets or inconsistent fitness routines. 

Risk Areas in Men 

• Abdomen 
• Waist 
• Chest 

2. Intense Bodybuilding 

Muscle gain is great, but extreme muscle-building efforts can make stretch marks more likely. When muscles grow faster than the skin can adapt, it stretches, causing micro-tears in the dermis. 

3. Teenage Growth Spurts 

During puberty, boys undergo rapid growth, including sudden increases in height or body mass. This “growth spurt” stresses the skin, especially around the back, shoulders, thighs, and knees, leading to stretch marks. 

4. Hormonal Changes 

Hormones play a pivotal role in skin elasticity. Changes in testosterone levels during adolescence or due to certain conditions can weaken skin fibres, leaving it vulnerable to stretch marks. 

5. Genetics 

Your family history might be a predictor. If your parents developed stretch marks during physical changes, you might have inherited a tendency for lower skin elasticity.

Preventing stretch marks may not always be possible, but certain habits can minimize your risk. 

1. Hydrate Your Skin 

Keeping your skin moisturised improves its elasticity. Use products containing hyaluronic acid, cocoa butter, or shea butter to maintain hydration and improve skin’s resilience. 

Tip 

Apply moisturiser immediately after a shower to lock in moisture. 

2. Build Muscle Gradually 

If you lift weights or are into bodybuilding, aim for steady muscle growth instead of abrupt bulking phases. Incremental gains allow your skin to adapt naturally. 

3. Maintain a Stable Weight 

Avoid rapid weight fluctuations by following a balanced diet and sustainable exercise plan. Gradual weight changes give your skin time to adjust. 

4. Nourish from Within 

Diet plays a key role in skin health. Include foods rich in nutrients like: 

• Vitamin C – Found in citrus fruits, this boosts collagen production. 
• Vitamin E – Almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach can improve skin texture. 
• Zinc – Nuts, lentils, and seeds help promote repair and regeneration of skin. 

5. Protect from Sun Damage 

Excess sun exposure can weaken collagen and elastin fibres, making skin more prone to damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to preserve skin health.

While stretch marks can’t be completely eliminated, various treatments can make them less visible. Here’s a detailed look at what’s available. 

1. Topical Treatments 

• Retinoids like tretinoin (primarily used for newer stretch marks) stimulate collagen repair. 
• Creams with hyaluronic acid or silicone gels can improve hydration and skin plumpness, making marks less noticeable. 

Note 

Always consult a dermatologist in Pune before using retinoids, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

2. Laser Therapy 

Laser treatments encourage collagen production by stimulating cells beneath the skin’s surface. Fractional lasers, like the Fraxel laser, are particularly effective for older stretch marks. 

Benefits 

• Smoothens skin texture. 
• Visibly lightens marks after multiple sessions. 

3. Micro-Needling 

Tiny needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This kickstarts the healing process, stimulating collagen production and reducing the appearance of stretch marks. 

4. Chemical Peels 

Peels with glycolic acid or salicylic acid help exfoliate the outer layers of skin. Over time, this reveals healthier, more even-toned skin. 

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy 

PRP therapy uses your blood’s platelets to rejuvenate skin fibres. It’s a natural and safe treatment that enhances skin repair and reduces marks. 

6. Surgical Options 

For severe cases, dermatologists may recommend abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or other procedures to remove excess skin and reduce stretch marks.

The internet is flooded with “home remedies” for stretch marks, but their efficacy is often limited. Some commonly recommended options include: 

• Aloe Vera – Provides hydration and soothes the skin but won’t fade stretch marks significantly. 
• Vitamin E Oil – Helps with skin hydration but has no direct effect on marks. 
• Coconut Oil – Boosts moisturisation but offers minimal impact on scars. 

These remedies are best supplemented with dermatologist-recommended treatments for more noticeable results.

Are you using the right treatments for your stretch marks? Not all options work the same. At Clear Skin Clinic Pune, provide personalized treatments designed just for your skin.

Stretch marks or not, keeping your skin healthy is vital. By adopting simple, consistent habits, you can build resilient, glowing skin. 

Daily Habits for Healthy Skin 

1. Exfoliate twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. 
2. Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. 
3. Avoid harsh soaps and use mild, pH-balanced cleansers. 
4. Get adequate sleep – this is when your body heals and your skin regenerates. 
5. Avoid smoking, as it damages collagen and hampers skin elasticity.