Before stretch marks begin to emerge the skin can appear thin and pink. It may also feel irritated and itchy. The marks initially develop as wrinkly, raised streaks that can be red, purple, pink reddish brown or dark brown depending upon skin colour. The streaks eventually fade and flatten and tend to change to a silvery colour over time. Thy will gradually become less noticeable, but this can often take years. Stretch marks develop on the skin, when the skin is suddenly stretched. Often after a period of intense growth ie weight gain, pregnancy, weight loss and puberty. For some people stretch marks are a serious cosmetic concern that can cause problems with self-image and anxiety.