Stretch marks involve changes beneath the surface
Stretch marks are a type of scar associated with rapid stretching or shrinking of skin. They can appear with growth, pregnancy and rapid body-size changes. Their color and texture evolve with time, so a change noticed after applying an oil cannot by itself establish that the oil caused it. [1]
The vitamin E claim is not supported by the AAD summary
AAD states that studies of vitamin E and several other popular home remedies did not demonstrate prevention or fading. This source is a clinical information summary, not an independently appraised trial here. It does not justify a capsule-opening technique, an optimal massage dose or a promise that consistent vitamin E use will remove marks. [1]
Discuss realistic treatment goals
Some treatments can make marks less noticeable, especially when they are early, but no approach guarantees erasure. Pregnancy and breastfeeding change treatment suitability, and retinoids need particular caution. A dermatologist can evaluate the marks and options rather than escalating a vitamin E routine because older marks persist. [1]
A before-and-after example
Imagine marks become paler over several months while an oil is being used. Natural evolution, lighting and other changes make that comparison unreliable as proof of efficacy. Similar photographs can document appearance for a consultation, but they do not substitute for a controlled comparison. [1]
| Situation | What it means |
|---|---|
| Surface moisturization | Different from scar reversal |
| Paler marks over time | May reflect natural evolution |
| Treatment goal | Reduced visibility rather than guaranteed removal |
Sources for this article
- Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.