Stretch marks

Overview

Stretch marks are very common. They're harmless and often get less visible over time.

Symptoms

Stretch marks look like lines or streaks across the skin.

Causes

Stretch marks are often caused by sudden growth or weight gain. You may be more likely to get them if you: are pregnantare going through pubertylose or gain weight quicklyare femaleare overweightuse some kinds ofsteroid creams or tabletshave a family member with stretch marks Rarely, stretch marks can be due to a condition calledCushing's syndrome.