New Stretch Marks During Puberty: What Parents Can Say

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“What are these lines?” A new mark on a shoulder, hip or back can prompt a worried question during puberty. Before reaching for a cream or asking your child to show everyone, pause. They may want to know whether something is wrong, whether the lines will change, or whether anyone else will notice.

This guide is for caregivers of tweens and teens aged 10–18. It explains general information about puberty-related stretch marks and offers ways to discuss them respectfully. A new skin change cannot be identified with certainty from this description; ask a qualified clinician if you are unsure what you are seeing.

Start with a calm, private answer

Try, “Skin can develop lines called stretch marks as bodies grow. They’re common, and we can ask a clinician if we’re not sure these are stretch marks.” Then ask what your child wants to know. Avoid announcing a diagnosis or promising that the lines will disappear.

Do not turn the conversation into an assessment of weight, food or attractiveness. Stretch marks are not evidence that a child has done something wrong. Nor are they restricted to pregnancy: Mayo Clinic’s discussion of teen stretch marks explains that boys and girls can develop them during rapid growth.

If a child does not want to show a mark to you, offer a health appointment rather than demanding an inspection. Ask before touching, photographing or sharing information about their body.

What stretch marks can look like

The NHS describes stretch marks as lines or streaks that can be pink, red, brown, black, silver or purple. They can appear on several areas, including the back, hips, thighs, chest and upper arms. Their appearance changes over time, so a picture on the internet may not resemble a child’s skin tone or stage.

The American Academy of Dermatology explains that these marks form when skin stretches or shrinks quickly. Puberty growth spurts are one setting in which they occur. Early marks can feel slightly raised or itchy; older marks may become less noticeable and feel slightly indented.

Ordinary stretch marks are harmless. They often fade, but may remain visible. “Less noticeable with time” is more accurate than “gone by next summer.” If the change is painful, looks unlike the descriptions, or worries your child, get medical advice instead of assuming it is a stretch mark.

Do not turn reassurance into a shopping list

A child searching online may encounter dramatic before-and-after pictures and products promising removal. Look at one claim together if they want help: What exactly is promised? Is the evidence about growing teenagers? Is the image edited or taken in different lighting? Is the person selling the product?

The NHS says there is little evidence for many creams and lotions marketed to prevent or remove stretch marks. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that commonly promoted remedies such as cocoa butter and vitamin E have not removed marks in studies. That does not mean a child needs a stronger product.

Do not start prescription creams, strong peels, skin-lightening products or home needling to treat a young person’s marks. If they want to discuss treatment, ask their clinician or a dermatologist about age-appropriate options, limitations and risks. This article does not recommend a medication or cosmetic procedure.

Nemours KidsHealth’s teen guidance, hosted by Lurie Children’s, notes that cosmetic treatments are generally not recommended for teens who are still growing. Adult treatment advertising is not an individual recommendation for your child.

Let comfort and privacy be their choices

Some young people barely notice the marks. Others feel uncomfortable in changing rooms or swimming clothes. Ask, “Would different clothes or more privacy help, or would you rather leave it alone?” Do not insist on either covering up or displaying their skin to prove confidence.

A preferred T-shirt or more private changing arrangement can be a practical choice. It should not become a rule that marks must be hidden. Avoid tanning as a way to erase them: the American Academy of Dermatology says tanning does not remove stretch marks and can make them more noticeable.

If someone comments, help your child choose a short response: “I’m not discussing my skin,” or “Please stop commenting on my body.” Adults should address repeated teasing with the relevant school or organisation. Our guide to body criticism and online comparison offers further conversation ideas.

When to ask a clinician

Arrange an appointment if you are uncertain what the marks are, they are changing in a way that concerns you, or discomfort or appearance worries are interfering with everyday life. A clinician can consider the whole picture, including growth and any medicines used.

Some steroid creams or tablets can be associated with stretch marks. Tell the prescriber about the change and bring the product names to the appointment. Do not stop or alter prescribed steroid treatment without talking to the prescriber.

The NHS specifically advises a GP assessment when large stretch marks occur alongside changes such as increased fat around the chest or tummy with relatively slim arms and legs, a build-up around the neck and shoulders, or a red, puffy, rounded face. These can be signs of an uncommon hormonal condition. This combination needs professional assessment; it is not something to diagnose by comparing family photographs.

Stretch marks alone do not establish that puberty is early or late. If timing is also a concern, our guide to asking about puberty timing explains that separate question. General information here does not replace individual medical care; see the medical disclaimer.

Make the appointment easier to use

1. Ask what your child wants answered. Write down their own question, not only your observations.
2. Note the basics. When were the lines first noticed? Where are they? Are they uncomfortable? Bring a list of medicines and skin products.
3. Agree on privacy. Explain that an examination should be discussed with them. They can ask about a chaperone and time to speak privately, according to the service’s arrangements.
4. Confirm the plan. Ask whether anything needs follow-up and what changes should prompt another appointment.

Ages 10–12: Offer a short explanation and two ways to ask questions: talking together or writing a note for the appointment. Avoid repeatedly checking their skin between conversations.

Ages 13–18: Let the young person take more of the lead in questions, privacy and any discussion of products. Support them in getting care without making appearance correction a family project. Accept signing, pictures or their usual communication aid at any age.

Sources and further reading

• NHS: appearance, common causes and when to see a GP.
• American Academy of Dermatology: evidence and limits of stretch-mark treatments.
• Nemours KidsHealth via Lurie Children’s: stretch marks for teens.
• Mayo Clinic: teen stretch marks during growth.

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