Glycolic Acid and Stretch Marks: Uses and Limits

Can glycolic acid remove stretch marks?

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid used in some exfoliating skincare products and professional peels. Exfoliation does not mean that a product can erase a stretch mark. Stretch marks are a type of scar; their appearance can change over time, and some approaches may make them less noticeable, but no single approach works for everyone.

It would be misleading to promise that any glycolic-acid cream will rebuild the affected skin, restore its elasticity or produce a significant improvement within a set number of weeks. The finished formula, the marks themselves and individual tolerability all matter. A cosmetic product and a professional peel are different interventions and should not share a home-use routine.

Product choice and irritation

Follow the instructions for the exact finished product. Do not use professional-strength peels at home or increase a product's strength or frequency to try to speed up results. Small-area use in accordance with its instructions cannot guarantee that a later reaction will not occur.

Glycolic-acid products can irritate skin and may increase its sensitivity to sunlight. Follow the product's sun-protection advice, including any precautions after stopping it. Use appropriate sunscreen, clothing and shade. Stop a cosmetic product that causes a reaction and seek advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Deciding what is suitable

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss a proposed product or procedure with an appropriate healthcare professional first. A cosmetic consultation can explore appearance goals and realistic options; it does not establish that a particular peel is suitable or that stretch marks will disappear.

Dr Sknn is an independent aesthetics and cosmetics clinic. Confirm the exact service, practitioner and clinic before booking. This guide does not promise that a glycolic-acid procedure is available at either clinic.