If you have stretch marks, you know they can sometimes feel frustrating or even affect your confidence. But here’s the truth: stretch marks are incredibly common and a normal part of skin changes. They’re the result of rapid growth or weight changes that push the skin past its natural elasticity. That said, many people wonder: Can exercise help fade stretch marks—or make them worse? Let’s take a closer look at what science says.

The Science Behind Stretch Marks

Stretch marks (striae distensae) form when the dermis—the middle layer of skin—is stretched too quickly, causing micro-tears in collagen and elastin fibers. As the skin heals, visible streaks or lines appear on the surface. Factors like genetics, hormones, puberty, pregnancy, and rapid muscle gain can all increase the risk (Ud-Din & McGeorge, 2016).

Exercise and Stretch Marks: Helpful or Harmful?

Increased Blood Flow

Exercise improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This supports repair processes and overall skin health. While evidence directly linking exercise-induced circulation to reduced stretch marks is limited, better blood flow does promote healthier skin overall (Elsaie et al., 2009).

Weight Loss and Stretch Marks

Losing weight through exercise may reduce the appearance of stretch marks by decreasing skin tension. However, stretch marks won’t disappear entirely—they are a type of scar. Rapid weight loss may also lead to sagging skin, which can make marks more noticeable (Ud-Din & McGeorge, 2016).

The Risk of New Stretch Marks

Just as rapid weight gain stretches skin, rapid muscle growth can also trigger new stretch marks. High-intensity bulking programs without gradual progression are a common cause of stretch marks in athletes and bodybuilders.

Best Exercises for Healthy Skin

To minimize the risk of worsening stretch marks, focus on low-impact and sustainable routines that promote steady progress:

• Swimming

• Walking

• Yoga

• Cycling or elliptical training

These activities support circulation, reduce strain on the skin, and promote long-term skin resilience.

Prevent & Treat Stretch Marks With Rejuvaskin

While exercise supports healthy skin, managing stretch marks requires a holistic approach: balanced nutrition, hydration, and targeted skin care. Rejuvaskin’s Stretch Mark Cream is formulated with:

• Cocoa and shea butters for deep hydration

• Peptides to support collagen and elastin

• Botanical extracts to improve skin texture

This non-irritating, dermatologist-recommended cream helps improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks, making it a great companion to your workout routine.

Exercise won’t erase stretch marks, but it can improve your skin’s overall health and reduce their visibility over time. Paired with consistent skincare, hydration, and gradual fitness progress, you can support smoother, stronger, and healthier-looking skin.

Works Cited

Elsaie, M. L., Baumann, L. S., & Elsaaiee, L. T. (2009). Striae distensae (stretch marks) and different modalities of therapy: An update. Dermatologic Surgery, 35(4), 563–573. Link

Ud-Din, S., & McGeorge, D. (2016). Striae distensae: Pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 30(12), 2119–2128. Link