The Shame Nobody Talks About: Stretch Marks & Self-Love

 

Unfiltered beauty-stretch mark tell a story of growth strength and resilience 

Let’s get real — why do stretch marks still feel like something we need to hide?

As if a few lines on your skin suddenly make you less beautiful or less worthy.

Society has been whispering the same lie for decades: “Erase those stretch marks or you’re not enough.”

It’s not a coincidence — there’s a multi-billion rand industry built on making you feel “flawed” so they can sell you the “fix.”

But here’s the truth no one profits from telling you: stretch marks are normal, they tell your story, and they’re proof you’ve lived, grown, and transformed.

Pregnancy, weight changes, puberty, muscle building — these are moments of life and progress. Yet instead of celebrating them, the beauty industry profits from convincing you they’re imperfections.

So, will you keep chasing expensive “miracle” solutions that rarely deliver, or start owning your lines like the warrior you are?

1. Stretch Marks Are More Common Than You Think

First things first: you’re not alone.

Research shows nearly 90% of women — and plenty of men — have stretch marks at some point in their lives.

They appear when skin stretches faster than your collagen can keep up, creating tiny tears beneath the surface. This happens during:

• Puberty — growth spurts in teens.
• Pregnancy — as the belly and hips expand.
• Weight changes — whether gaining or losing.
• Muscle building — especially in athletes and gym-goers.

The issue? Instead of being seen as normal, stretch marks are erased from ads, airbrushed out of magazines, and filtered away on Instagram.

When all you see is “perfect” skin, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one with marks. In reality, most of us have them — we just don’t see them in glossy media.

2. The Truth Behind Stretch Mark Treatments

The stretch mark industry — creams, oils, lasers, microneedling — is worth billions worldwide.

The promises are tempting: “Erase stretch marks in 4 weeks!” or “Clinically proven to remove all scars!” But here’s what you need to know:

• Creams & oils: Great for moisturizing and improving texture, but they won’t make marks vanish completely.
• Laser treatments: Can reduce redness and improve appearance, but they’re pricey and may require multiple sessions.
• Microneedling: Helps stimulate collagen but results vary and downtime is needed.
• Surgical options: Invasive, expensive, and carry risks.

The cycle is predictable: buy → try → get disappointed → repeat.

It’s not just skincare — it’s a business model that thrives on keeping you insecure.

3. Self-Love vs. Beauty Industry Messaging

On one side, there’s the self-love movement — influencers proudly showing unfiltered photos of their stretch marks. On the other side? The same influencers selling you creams to fade them.

It’s mixed messaging: Love yourself, but also change yourself.

That’s not empowerment — that’s marketing in disguise.

4. A South African Perspective on Skin & Society

In Trade Thrive’s article, “When Beauty Meets Reality: Skin, Society & Survival for South African Women”, there’s a powerful truth:

“Hey, bru — they don’t just see my skin; they see ‘flaws.’ … your skin tells your story, bru. Stretch marks, scars, dark spots — they’re proof you survived.”

In South Africa, beauty pressures are layered with daily realities — load-shedding disrupting routines, skincare products priced far beyond average budgets, and a lack of representation for darker skin in mainstream ads.

Stretch marks here aren’t just about appearance — they’re about identity, resilience, and navigating a society that often puts impossible standards ahead of real beauty.

Natural oils and hydration can help skin feel healthier-whether you embrace or fade your marks.

5. Real Talk: How Stretch Marks Can Empower You

What if we stopped hiding our marks and started owning them?

For many, they’re tied to life-changing memories:

• A mother remembering her pregnancy journey.
• A person celebrating weight loss that improved their health.
• An athlete honouring the hard work behind muscle growth.

When you see stretch marks as evidence of your resilience, they become less about “flaws” and more about your personal story.

Some even call them “tiger stripes” — and like a tiger, you’ve earned every stripe through your battles.

6. Practical Tips: Love or Fade — Your Choice

No matter what you decide, it’s important that it’s your choice — not society’s.

If you want to embrace them:

• Wear clothes that make you feel good, whether or not they reveal your marks.
• Follow creators who normalize natural skin.
• Replace negative self-talk with affirmations like: “My skin tells my story.”

If you want to fade them:

• Stay hydrated and moisturize daily.
• Use natural oils such as almond, rosehip, or coconut for elasticity.
• Protect your skin from sun damage — UV can make marks darker.
• Research treatments and speak to a dermatologist before spending big.

7. Stretch Marks Are Not Just a “Women’s Issue”

Men get stretch marks too — from bulking up, slimming down, or growth spurts. The difference is they’re less likely to talk about it.

Normalizing stretch marks for all genders helps break the idea that only “perfect” skin is acceptable.

8. Quick FAQ: Stretch Marks Edition

Can stretch marks be prevented?

Not always — genetics play a big role. But staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and moisturizing can help skin stay elastic.

Do they fade over time?

Yes, they usually change from red/purple to silver/white over months or years.

Are expensive creams worth it?

Often no — many over-the-counter options work just as well as pricey brands.

Are they harmful?

No, stretch marks are purely cosmetic and don’t pose a health risk.

The Bottom Line: Your Body, Your Narrative

Stretch marks are part of being human. They show growth, change, and resilience. The beauty industry profits when you hate them — but you don’t have to buy into that.

Whether you choose to embrace them with pride or explore treatments, make sure it’s because it feels right for you.

Your marks tell a story — and every story deserves to be told without shame.

📌 Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting any medical treatment.

💬 Let’s Talk:

What’s your stretch mark story? Are you on the journey to embracing them, trying to fade them, or somewhere in between?

Drop your thoughts below — you might inspire someone to see their skin in a whole new light.