Normally, you will see a noticeable change in stretch marks within six to twelve months after giving birth. The pigmentation of your skin will fade and the stretch marks will become somewhat lighter than the skin around them. The color of the stretch marks will vary according to the skin color of your own skin; however, the texture of the stretch marks will remain the same. To answer the question, no stretch marks will never go away completely.

After you have lost the weight that has caused the stretch marks or you have achieved the muscle mass that you desire from weight lifting, you may start searching for products that will help to fade stretch marks. There are some products that might help in a small way however; the only way to rid your body of stretch marks is by surgery. According to the location of the stretch marks, you can get a tummy tuck or laser surgery.

There are a few products that may also help to fade stretch marks including tretinoin cream or any cream that has Retin-A as an active ingredient. These creams should be applied shortly after giving birth however; if you are breast-feeding, then you should not use these products. Retin-A can improve the appearance of the stretch marks, but it does not change the texture or any skin that may be sagging.

Other ways to help hide stretch marks or to fade them include sunless tanning treatments. Other the counter lotions and sprays can at least cover up stretch marks. You may even be able to find some makeup that can cover up the stretch marks so they are not noticeable.  If you do wish to purchase makeup to cover up the stretch marks be sure to find body makeup that matches your skin tone and it would be best to buy waterproof makeup as well.

Before spending all kinds of money on miracle products that claim to cure all signs of stretch marks, you should talk with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Surgery as mentioned above is the only real way in which to rid your body of stretch marks. However, all types of surgery can be expensive. Your dermatologist may be able to suggest other alternatives that may fit your budget a bit more such as microdermabrasion or laser treatments.

Many times treatments with vitamin E, Shea Nut butter or Cocoa butter prior to the beginning of stretch marks is the best approach to giving your skin the elasticity it needs so stretch marks never develop.