In the process of building their bodies through exercise, many people are embarrassed by the white stripes etched on their chest or shoulders. These marks, which appear regardless of losing weight or building muscle, are stretch marks. The first question that comes to mind is probably, "Why do I get stretch marks when I exercise?" To put it simply, stretch marks can be caused not only by fat but also by rapidly growing muscles.
Why do stretch marks appear?
Stretch marks are, simply put, traces left when the skin cannot keep up with a sudden increase in volume, and the inner dermis tears. While it's commonly thought they only appear with weight gain, the skin contains not only fat but also muscle. If muscles grow rapidly in a short period, the skin cannot keep pace, and the same damage occurs.
Stretch marks are reported as scar-like changes that occur when collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis, not the epidermis, break.
When strength training leads to gym stretch marks
High-intensity strength training, especially when started suddenly, can easily lead to stretch marks on the shoulders or chest. Routines like the following are typical patterns that increase the risk of gym stretch marks:
- High-weight training aimed at bulking up
- Overly ambitious routines to build muscle in a short period
- Biased routines that reduce cardio and focus only on weight training
- Dietary habits that accelerate growth by excessively consuming supplements or protein
It's also good to remember that if you increase protein intake to build muscle quickly, the rapid growth of muscles can lead to stretch marks appearing on the chest, thighs, or shoulders.
Are creams or ointments enough?
Stretch marks are damage caused by tearing of the inner skin, so conventional care alone has limitations. Many people who frequently develop shoulder stretch marks from gym workouts consistently apply creams or ointments to the affected area.
Most are composed of moisturizing ingredients, which can help prevent the skin from drying out and slow down further deterioration. However, it is difficult to bring about changes in the dermis layer of the skin, and it is common for people to give up midway. While consistent moisturizing care is certainly meaningful, adding laser treatment that stimulates the dermis can create a synergistic effect.
For questions, please contact us for a consultation on shoulder/chest stretch mark treatment
Treatment direction varies by stretch mark color
The focus of treatment is determined by the condition, usually based on the color of the stretch marks. In the examination room, even for the same shoulder stretch marks, the approach changes completely depending on whether they are in the red or white stage.
| Stretch Mark Stage | Characteristics | Considered Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Red Stretch Marks | Early stage, recently formed, reddish | Vascular laser (e.g., Vbeam Prima) type |
| White Stretch Marks | Time has passed, color has faded, accompanied by depressions | CO2 laser (e.g., Ultrapulse Encore), Pinhole Technique |
When they have recently appeared, red shoulder stretch marks are highly likely to occur. At this time, vascular lasers can be helpful as it is a relatively early stage. Red Stretch Mark Care in the early stage is reported to be easier to approach before the color sets.
After some time, stretch marks turn white. At this point, collagen has already been lost, and in some cases, significant depressions have developed. In such cases, procedures that boost the skin's regenerative power with CO2 lasers like Ultrapulse Encore are considered. The white stretch mark stage, having been present for longer, may require a longer treatment period.
For old white shoulder stretch marks, an approach utilizing the Pinhole Alpha is used to reduce noticeable marks. Stretch marks are inherently difficult to treat, and the necessary treatment method and intensity vary depending on the individual's condition. Therefore, it is advisable to thoroughly check various factors before deciding on shoulder stretch mark treatment. Reviewing the overall Stretch Mark Treatment process in advance can also be helpful for setting a direction.
How to prevent stretch marks while continuing to exercise
As important as treatment is creating a balanced exercise plan to prevent shoulder stretch marks from reappearing after gym workouts. The following points are good to keep in mind:
- Adjust the ratio of weight training to cardio so it's not skewed to one side
- Stretch sufficiently before and after exercise to warm up the body
- Avoid high-weight routines that concentrate on only one body part
- Do not excessively accelerate the rate of muscle growth
If you discover unexpected marks
If you develop unexpected stretch marks during exercise, the first step is to check if there was any sudden stress in your routine. It is generally easier to address marks when they are in the early, red stage, so it's advisable to check your condition as soon as you discover them. The effectiveness and recovery patterns may vary individually.
For questions, please contact us for a chat consultation on stretch mark treatment direction
Chief Director Lee Sang-joo (Yonsei University College of Medicine & Graduate School, Doctor of Medicine, Completed Dermatology Residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2025-04-09 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16
This article provides general information, and since results may vary depending on the color and depth of the stretch marks, please confirm the exact diagnosis and treatment direction through consultation with medical staff.