Stretch Marks: Why Creams Don't Work & What Actually Does

This article has been researched and written by Arelang Naturals^® in-house writers.

Stretch marks—those uninvited streaks on your skin—are like nature’s way of documenting growth, change and transformation. Whether they appear during puberty, pregnancy or after rapid weight shifts, they’re a sign that your skin has stretched faster than its support system could handle.

But what if you could help your skin adapt better from the inside out? Instead of chasing miracle creams or downing collagen powders, let’s set the record straight: stretch marks are an inside job—and no, slathering on collagen-infused lotions won’t erase them. The real secret lies in your body’s ability to produce collagen naturally. Let’s break down the science behind stretch marks and how you can fuel your skin’s resilience.

What Are Stretch Marks & How Do They Form? 

Stretch marks or striae are a type of scarring that happens when the skin is stretched too quickly, causing tiny tears in its support structure. They often start as red, purple or pink streaks before fading into white or silvery lines over time. While they become less visible, they rarely disappear completely.

To understand how they form, let’s look at the three main layers of skin:

• Epidermis – The outer protective layer.
• Dermis – The middle layer, rich in collagen and elastin, which provides strength and flexibility.
• Hypodermis – The deepest layer, containing fat and connective tissues.

When skin expands too quickly—whether due to pregnancy, puberty or weight fluctuations—the collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis tear instead of stretching gradually. This triggers the body’s natural repair process, filling in the gaps with scar tissue, which appears as stretch marks.

Can Collagen Help Reduce Stretch Marks?

Absolutely! But not in the way most people assume. Simply consuming collagen won’t send it straight to your skin—your body first breaks it down into amino acids. The real key is fueling your fibroblasts, the skin cells responsible for collagen production. When fibroblasts are nourished, your skin can repair, rebuild, and maintain its elasticity more effectively.

Here’s how enhanced collagen production supports skin resilience:

Accelerates Skin Repair – Collagen is essential for healing damaged skin, helping to minimize the appearance of stretch marks over time.

Boosts Elasticity – Stronger collagen fibers improve skin flexibility, allowing it to stretch without breaking.

Strengthens & Hydrates – Collagen retains moisture, keeping skin supple and less prone to scarring.

Encourages Cell Turnover – Fibroblasts help generate new, healthy skin cells, gradually reducing the depth and discoloration of stretch marks.

But to increase collagen, you should not consume collagen powder or apply collagen lotions. Forget marine collagen—your body is designed to make its own when given the right nutrients. Supporting fibroblasts with a plant-based, nutrient-rich diet is the most effective way to boost collagen production.

Key Nutrients for Collagen Synthesis

Vitamin C – Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and berries, it’s essential for collagen formation.

Zinc & Copper – Present in nuts, seeds, and whole grains, these minerals activate collagen-building enzymes.

Silica – Found in cucumbers, bananas, and oats, it strengthens connective tissues.

Amino Acids (Proline & Glycine) – Present in legumes and seeds, they serve as collagen’s building blocks.

To help your skin restore and maintain its collagen levels, Replenish with Greens delivers the ultimate fibroblast-fueling nutrients:

Spirulina & Chlorella – Algae packed with amino acids that stimulate collagen production.

Red Spinach – Rich in antioxidants that protect fibroblast function.

Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that reduces stress, which can otherwise hinder collagen synthesis.

Lecithin & Inulin – Prebiotics that support gut health, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption for collagen production.

Ginkgo & Ginseng – Known to improve circulation, delivering essential nutrients to skin cells.

Milk Thistle – Supports liver detoxification, crucial for preventing collagen breakdown.

Agar – A plant-based gelatin alternative that enhances skin hydration and elasticity.

Stretch marks may be a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help your skin heal and stay resilient. By understanding the role of collagen and nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you can reduce their appearance naturally—without relying on collagen powders or miracle creams.

Your body already has everything it needs to create collagen. Replenish with Greens just helps it do the job better! 😉