Stretch marks are common marks that occur when the skin stretches rapidly, causing the dermis layer to tear. Many people ask, "Do red stretch marks disappear if left alone?" I want to first inform you that the period when they are red is when the treatment response is best.
As summer approaches, clothes become lighter and more parts of the body are exposed, and stretch marks that were previously ignored begin to become noticeable. Red stretch marks, in particular, often stand out more due to color contrast. Today, we will summarize the reasons why stretch marks occur and the approach to managing red stretch marks with Chief Director Lee Sang-joo.
Why Do Stretch Marks Occur?
Stretch marks form when the skin of the abdomen rapidly expands during pregnancy, or when the skin of the calves, waist, or back is quickly stretched during growth, causing the dermis to tear. Those who enjoy exercise may also develop stretch marks on their shoulders or chest while weightlifting.
Scars, as commonly imagined, form when the skin surface (epidermis) is injured. In contrast, stretch marks are marks that form when tissue tears from within the skin, without an external injury. Therefore, the tissue structure of stretch marks often resembles that of scars.
In the clinic, we find that patient satisfaction is higher when red stretch marks are understood as a form of scar and approached early.
What is the Difference Between Red and White Stretch Marks?
Red stretch marks are those that appear reddish due to inflammation accompanying the injury. Over time, the color fades and turns white, but the timing varies from person to person.
| Change Pattern | Description |
|---|---|
| Typical Case | Usually changes to white stretch marks around 6 months |
| Immediate White | Rarely goes through the red stage |
| Delayed Change | Red color changes to white after 1-2 years |
| Mild Case | If mild, may naturally fade |
Most red stretch marks eventually turn white, so the period when they are still red is known to be more favorable for management. It is better to address them before they transition to the white stretch marks stage where the color has faded.
Why is it Better to Manage When Red?
The reason red stretch marks appear red is due to excessive proliferation of blood vessels in that area. Substances that cause scarring or inflammation are continuously supplied through these increased blood vessels.
In the past, scars were often left alone, but recently, it is known that an earlier approach is generally better. When managed during the red stage, better outcomes in terms of color improvement and recovery speed are reported compared to the white stage. Please also remember that individual differences may exist.
Inquire via chat if you are curious about the progression stages of red stretch marks
What is the Management Approach?
For red stretch marks, we use a vascular laser (Vbeam Prima) to target blood vessels, improving the red color and reducing harmful substances supplied by the proliferated blood vessels, thereby preventing further progression of stretch marks.
For depressed stretch marks, non-invasive fractional laser may be considered. The non-invasive method works by delivering thermal energy to the dermis without injuring the skin surface, helping fibroblasts produce new collagen.
- For intensely red stretch marks, improve color with a vascular laser
- For depressed stretch marks, consider combining with a non-invasive fractional laser
- If both red and depressed stretch marks are present, consider both approaches together
- At home, consistently apply stretch mark cream to aid recovery
- Since the approach varies depending on color and depth, checking the condition first is important
If both red and depressed stretch marks are present, combining a vascular laser and fractional laser, as in Red Stretch Marks Management and Stretch Mark Treatment, can be helpful.
Are Ointments Effective?
In the past, the only available method for red stretch marks was retinoid-based ointments. Here, it's important to distinguish between "effective" and "highly effective." Retinoid ointments have a certain effect, but the extent of change is smaller compared to lasers. However, retinoid-based ointments are generally better than common over-the-counter stretch mark creams.
| Management Method | General Response |
|---|---|
| Laser | Reported to show significant response in improving color and depression |
| Retinoid Ointment (Prescription) | Prescription ointments are generally better than over-the-counter products |
| Moisturizing Cream | Plays a supplementary moisturizing role |
Precautions When Using Ointments
Prescription retinoid ointments are potent and can cause skin irritation. When using for the first time, please follow these guidelines:
- Apply a small amount once a day, before bed
- Slight redness after 2-3 consecutive days of use is considered part of the progress
- If stinging or severe redness occurs, reduce the amount and frequency of application
- Expect gradual changes rather than immediate results; use consistently for over a month
- If irritation persists, do not increase use arbitrarily; consult with your medical team
Since ointments do not show immediate results, consistency is important.
Inquire via chat if you are considering ointment use or combining with laser treatment
In Summary
Red stretch marks are marks similar in nature to scars, and the period when they are red is known to be favorable for management. Since the approach varies depending on the type of mark, such as faded white stretch marks or cosmetic surgery scars, the first step is to confirm what stage your stretch marks are in.
Chief Director Lee Sang-joo (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School, completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First Published 2023-08-11 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16 This article is for general informational purposes only, and individual outcomes may vary depending on skin condition. Accurate diagnosis and treatment plans should be determined through consultation with medical professionals.