The Effects of Tanning on Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are damaged areas of the skin where the bottom layers of tissue were torn apart because the skin was stretched too quickly. This means that stretch marks are technically scar tissue and will not respond to tanning in the same way as other areas of your skin.

A woman suntanning on the beach. (Image: Alliance/iStock/Getty Images)

Adding Insult to Injury

Although many people try tanning as a way to hide stretch marks, the marks actually become more noticeable after a tanning session because they remain lighter than the tanned skin around them. Sunless tanners and spray tans, however, actually apply a pigment directly to the skin and are able to color stretch marks along with other skin. This is a good way to conceal stretch marks and make them less noticeable. If time out in the sun leaves you with a tan that makes your stretch marks obvious, consider using a makeup that matches the color of your tan to make your stretch marks blend.