Dermatology, by video or in person
Stretch Marks
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Stretch Marks
- Lines or streaks on the tummy, breasts, hips, thighs, bottom, arms or back
- New marks that look pink, red, purple or dark brown, sometimes itchy
- Older marks that are paler than the skin around them, and slightly sunken
- Wide marks on the inner thighs, armpits or face after using a steroid or lightening cream
- Large purple stretch marks with weight gain on the face, neck and tummy
Stretch marks are lines or streaks where the skin has been stretched faster than it can grow, which tears the deeper layer. They are very common, in men as well as women, on the tummy, breasts, hips, thighs, bottom, upper arms and back. They often come with pregnancy, puberty, gaining or losing weight quickly, and bodybuilding. Steroid creams and tablets also cause them, and in Nigeria many lightening and toning creams contain strong steroids, which thin the skin and can leave wide stretch marks that do not fade. New marks may look pink, red, purple or dark brown on dark skin; over months they fade to lines paler than the skin around them. They are harmless and usually fade with time, but they rarely disappear completely. Many creams and oils promise to remove them, and there is very little evidence that any do. Some treatments can make them less noticeable, especially when they are new.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Lines or streaks on the tummy, breasts, hips, thighs, bottom, arms or back
- New marks that look pink, red, purple or dark brown, sometimes itchy
- Older marks that are paler than the skin around them, and slightly sunken
- Wide marks on the inner thighs, armpits or face after using a steroid or lightening cream
- Large purple stretch marks with weight gain on the face, neck and tummy
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital or see a doctor urgently if a cream has left your skin burnt, broken, weeping or infected. See a doctor if you have large purple stretch marks together with a rounded, red face, fat building up on the back of the neck and tummy but thin arms and legs, which can be a sign of Cushing's syndrome; if stretch marks appeared after using a steroid or lightening cream; or if they are spreading quickly without pregnancy or weight change. See a dermatologist if you want treatment, because some options are not safe in pregnancy and some need care on dark skin.
Treatment options
- Time: most marks fade on their own over months to a few years
- Stopping any steroid or lightening cream, with a doctor's advice
- Prescription retinoid (tretinoin) cream on new marks, never in pregnancy
- Hyaluronic acid creams on new marks
- Microneedling, which can soften the look of older marks but not remove them
- Light and laser treatments, chosen with care on dark skin
- Keeping to a steady weight, which is the best way to reduce new marks
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
Rarely. Most fade over time and treatments can make them less visible, especially new ones, but no cream or procedure reliably removes them. Be wary of anyone who promises that.
Do stretch mark creams sold in Nigeria work?
There is very little evidence that creams, oils or butters prevent or remove stretch marks. Retinoid and hyaluronic acid creams may help new marks. Avoid any cream that contains a steroid or promises to lighten the skin.
Can I treat stretch marks in pregnancy?
Moisturisers are fine. Retinoid creams must not be used in pregnancy because they may harm the baby. If you are breastfeeding, ask a doctor before starting any stronger treatment.
Can a dermatologist help by video?
Yes. A dermatologist can see your stretch marks on camera, check for a steroid cream or a hormone cause, and plan creams or refer you for a procedure in person.
Need Help?
A skin specialist on a video call, who looks at the skin on camera, plans treatment and tells you if it needs to be seen in person.
See a dermatologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified dermatology specialist near you.
Dermatology in Lagos →Dermatology in Abuja →Dermatology in Port Harcourt →Dermatology in Jos →Dermatology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Stretch marks. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 5 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.