Guidance on enhancing the appearance of stretch marks has been provided by Dr. Noman Mohamed, a London-based aesthetics doctor specializing in cosmetic dermatology. Known for sharing skincare tips with his extensive social media following, Dr. Mohamed has recently offered insights through the Mirror.

Using the TikTok handle @Drnomzzy, where he boasts over 400,000 followers, Dr. Mohamed shared his advice on how to address stretch marks. He suggested that some popular remedies might not be effective and recommended alternatives that could yield better results.

Dr. Mohamed explained, “Understanding the nature of stretch marks is essential if you aim to improve their appearance. Essentially, stretch marks are a form of scarring caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin when the skin stretches rapidly. Although they are a normal occurrence, it’s also normal to seek ways to reduce their visibility.”

He further advised, “If you wish to enhance their appearance, consider these three effective options, as vitamin E oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter are unlikely to be beneficial.”

Dr. Mohamed recommended, “Firstly, use a hyaluronic acid serum or moisturizer daily, ensuring you massage it into the skin. Secondly, apply tretinoin daily, but avoid it if you are pregnant. Finally, look for products containing centella.”

He noted, “For instance, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume is an excellent choice. It’s crucial to act when stretch marks are still red, as skincare alone won’t help once they turn white. At that stage, consider treatments like microneedling or chemical peels.”

The NHS says stretch marks are very common. The advice explains: “They’re harmless and often get less visible over time.” People may be more likely to get stretch marks if they are pregnant, they lose or gain weight quickly, or they have a family member with stretch marks.

The NHS continues: “Stretch marks usually fade over time but may not disappear completely. Many creams and lotions claim to prevent, reduce or remove stretch marks.

“But there’s very little evidence these work. There are some treatments that may help make stretch marks look better, but they will not get rid of them.”

The NHS said treatments that may help to improve the appearance of stretch marks include microdermabrasion or laser treatments. The NHS added that retinoid (often called tretinoin) creams or hyaluronic acid could also help. “These may help if used on new stretch marks, but you should not use retinoid creams if you’re pregnant as they may harm your baby,” the advice said.