Stretch marks are scars caused by excessive stretching of the skin.
About half of all expectant women get stretch marks , also called striae gravidarum, which show up most commonly on the abdomen during the second half of pregnancy as it enlarges to accommodate a growing baby. Some women also get them on the hips, breasts, and buttocks. Depending on your skin color, stretch marks start out as pink, reddish brown, or dark brown streaks. Many women use various types of creams, lotions, and oils to try to prevent them from forming. Unfortunately, while such products soothe and soften the skin, studies show that they don't prevent stretch marks or even make them any less severe.