Why Do Stretch Marks Itch?

Itchy Stretch Marks: What Are The Causes?

You develop stretch marks when your skin stretches beyond its capacity, causing tears in the dermis (the second layer of skin right below the epidermis).

When the stretch marks are fresh and developing, they appear red, purple, or pinkish (depending on your skin tone). That’s when they itch.

Fresh stretch marks itch because the skin is thinner and has less collagen support. Moreover, dermal tear also harms the nerves and creates inflammation in the skin, which causes itching. Once the skin starts healing, the damaged nerves are stimulated, which causes the itching sensation.

Also, if the skin around the stretch marks becomes dry, it may cause itching. In such cases, topical moisturizers can offer some relief. However, you have to be particularly careful when you develop itchy stretch marks on your abdomen during pregnancy.

Itchy Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Stretch marks often develop during late pregnancy, when the baby is growing, and the skin on your abdomen stretches to accommodate the baby. Usually, you may develop stretch marks during the second trimester. Some may even notice them at the end of the third trimester.

During this time, the stretch marks or the skin around them may itch. This is because the skin starts healing itself.

However, some women may also develop a type of rash called the Pruritic Urticarial Papules And Plaques Of Pregnancy (PUPPP). This is the most common type of rashes that pregnant women develop during the third trimester of their pregnancy (almost at the same time as they develop stretch marks) (1).

PUPPP is an inflammatory skin condition, and if it develops on the stretch marks, it can add on to the itchiness and cause extreme discomfort. The doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamines for treatment.

Hence, it is better to be on the safe side if you are pregnant and get your skin evaluated by a doctor in case you develop an itch.

If your itchiness is caused due to the developing stretch marks and the dryness around them, here are a few ways to control it.

How To Treat Itchy Stretch Marks

Keeping the area moisturized while stretch marks are developing is important. Moisturization not only helps fade them but also relieves itching by reducing dryness (2). Here are a few things you may try:

1. Cocoa Butter

There is a lack of evidence supporting the use of cocoa butter as an effective skin moisturizer. However, one small study suggests that cocoa butter can improve skin elasticity (3).

It is also widely used in cosmetic formulations, especially in moisturizing lotions, for its skin moisturizing abilities. You may try massaging the area with cocoa butter to keep the skin moisturized and prevent itching.

2. Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil is widely used in traditional medicine for healing several skin issues. It is an excellent moisturizer that helps to reduce inflammation by improving the transepidermal water loss and skin barrier function. It also helps to keep the skin hydrated and moisturized (4). This property may also help to fade the stretch marks.

3. Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil (the liquid squeezed from the softgels) is an extremely popular home remedy to keep the skin moisturized. However, there is no scientific proof of its moisturizing effects. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant and can keep the skin healthy (5).

In addition to the above-mentioned ingredients, you may also use almond and jojoba oils or moisturizing creams. Apply ice or use cold (refrigerated) calamine lotion to relieve itching.

You may also consult a dermatologist. They may suggest anti-itch ointments and topical creams or lotions to keep itching at bay. Here are some more tips that may help reduce itching on your stretch marks.

A Few Tips To Prevent Itchy Stretch Marks

1. Apply Moisturizers Frequently

It is crucial to keep your skin moisturized. You may layer both creams and moisturizers for intense hydration. Apply moisturizers at least thrice a day,  always on damp skin. This will help prevent dryness.

2. Go For Oil Massages

Massaging the stretch marks with oil can help reduce itchiness. It also helps improve elasticity and hydration levels of your skin. Oil massages during pregnancy not only keep the skin healthy and fade stretch marks but also help relieve pregnancy-related stress and anxiety.

However, always consult a doctor before massaging your abdomen. Also, be mindful of the pressure that is being applied.

3. Use A Moisturizing Cleanser For Shower

Avoid soaps for bathing as they may make your skin dry. Use moisturizing body washes. This will help prevent the tightness or dryness of your skin. Also, use lukewarm water for showers.

4. Use Topical Ointments And Creams For Itchy Stretch Marks

If your doctor has recommended any anti-itch cream or ointment, make it a point to apply it regularly and as directed.

Usually, you get stretch marks:

• when you lose or gain weight rapidly
• during puberty
• if you are weight training for building muscle mass
• if you have a family history of stretch marks
• if you have certain medical conditions (like Marfan’s syndrome, Cushing syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does itching make stretch marks worse?

Scratching the itching area may make the stretch marks worse. The stretch marks may deepen and leave behind scars.

Does an itchy belly signify stretch marks?

An itchy belly does not necessarily signify stretch marks. However, you may start your stretch mark prevention routine if your belly starts itching. Also, pregnant people often experience an itchy belly when the skin starts adapting to the growing baby inside.

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Ramona Sinha

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze. Prior to that, she authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She... more

Dr. Swati Mutha

(MBBS, DDV)

Dr. Swati Mutha is a clinical and aesthetic dermatologist with over 10 years of experience. She has done her fellowship... more