One of the most popular questions asked on the Internet by aspiring models is whether or not they can model with visible stretch marks and scars.

And it’s great news for those of you who are wondering –  because the answer is yes!

What Are Stretch Marks?

According to the NHS, stretch marks are ‘narrow streaks or lines that develop on the surface of the skin’. They occur when the skin is overly stretch either from gaining weight or a growth spurt in puberty. Body areas most commonly affected are the breasts, tummy, bum and thighs. Men can get them on their chest and arms when they gain muscle quickly. Women also tend to get them during pregnancy.

If you’re not sure what a stretch mark looks like, it’s normally darker in colour than the rest of your skin and has a slightly broken, squiggly formation to it. They feel thinner than normal skin. The older your stretch marks become, the more they will fade and lighten in colour, eventually becoming a silvery shade.

As for scars, we all know how they can vary in size, shape and colour and you probably know far more about how yours developed than we ever will! Scars occur when damage is done to the skin. Acne is a common condition in teens that also cause scars.

Are Stretch Marks Common?

Stretch marks and scars are very normal human bodily features and almost all of us have at least one. Some people develop lots of stretch marks after a growth spurt. Many women have them on their tummy post-pregnancy. Teens struggle with spots. And most of us have scratched and scarred knees from our childhoods.

Don’t be ashamed of your skin’s appearance. Many models and celebrities have stretch marks and scars. While these used to be edited out of images, brands are beginning to embrace a more realistic, natural beauty and we are seeing less and less edited photos in campaigns and magazines.  

Stretch Marks Will Not Affect Your Modelling Career

Stretch marks are very unlikely to affect your modelling career because they are so common.

They also tend to be in places that are commonly covered by clothing. Unless you are doing glamour, fitness or fashion work that involves modelling in bikinis or underwear, the only time people might catch a glimpse of your stretch marks is when you’re getting changed.

Be Confident in Your Appearance

For aspiring models with severe scarring, we encourage you not to give up, either. There are agencies that work with and support models with all types of features. Do some research and find agencies who work with such models. 

Many brands have recently launched diversity-focused campaigns with an aim to feature real-life women. Missguided’s ‘#InYourOwnSkin’ campaign included women with extensive scarring, as well as a number of visible skin conditions like rosacea and vitiligo, showing beauty is truly diverse.

A selection of popular brands like ASOS and Missguided have also stopped editing their images to show a more realistic, natural beauty.

Check out Katie Piper and her empowering career for more inspiration.

It’s important to remember that all models face rejection during their careers – it’s part of the job. Don’t give up and keep applying to jobs and agencies. 

Can I Get Rid of Stretch Marks/Scars?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to get rid of stretch marks and scars completely. There are, however, a few things you can do to help fade and cover them:

• Many celebrities use fake tan to help even out discolouration by stretch marks and scars on the body.
• Body make-up is a great way to target key areas.
• Body oil is a good way to help skin stay moisturised and help it not to stretch as much.
• Body brushing is thought to be a good technique to keep blood circulating and help skin stay healthy.
• Prevention is the key, though it is not always successful. Ingesting collagen, eating well and moisturising regularly (particularly if your skin is growing/changing for any reason) is the best way to keep stretch marks at bay.

Models & Celebrities With Stretch Marks/Scars

1. Ashley Graham
2. Kylie Jenner
3. Jasmine Tookes
4. Barbie Ferreira
5. Kourtney Kardashian
6. Jourdan Dunn
7. Chrissy Teigen
8. Robyn Lawley
9. Iskra Lawrence
10. Padma Lakshmi