Stretch Mark Treatment: How it Works and Its Effectiveness | Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon

Stretch marks are traces that occur when the dermis layer cannot keep up with the rate at which the skin stretches. They can appear on the abdomen, thighs, arms, chest, buttocks, and other areas in adolescents undergoing rapid growth spurts, or in individuals who have gained weight suddenly due to pregnancy or weight changes. When first encountered, the concern often arises, "Will a stretch mark, once formed, last a lifetime?" To answer directly, cases of noticeable improvement depending on the condition and timing are reported.

Outwardly, they may look like thin lines that seem to disappear easily, but in reality, the very structure of the skin is damaged. Therefore, restoring it to its original state is not as simple as it might seem.

Our skin is divided into the outer epidermis and the underlying dermis. Stretch marks are a problem closer to scars, caused by the tearing of tissue in the dermis.

In particular, the dermis tends to have poor flexibility, making it prone to tearing when weight is gained or when muscles and the body grow rapidly, as it cannot keep up with the speed. This is why there are limitations to recovery with surface management alone once the dermis is torn.

Many people try home care with creams or ointments before visiting a clinic. Moisture-focused care can make the skin feel softer and more hydrated, giving the impression of improvement, but it has limitations in treating the stretch marks themselves, which have already formed in the dermis.

Ingredients should also be considered. Ointments, being medicinal products, may have a slightly greater effect than creams, but it is necessary to carefully check the ingredients depending on the individual. For example, even if marks appear due to weight gain during pregnancy, ointments may need to be used safely only after childbirth and breastfeeding are complete. Here are some good points to check before home care:

• Confirm current pregnancy or breastfeeding status and possible usage period
• Check for ingredients that may cause irritation or allergies
• Distinguish between moisturizing auxiliary use and treatment purpose
• Identify whether the marks are in the red or white stage

This does not mean you should avoid home care products altogether. We recommend using them as a supplement after consulting to see if they are suitable for your condition. If you are concerned about the color or degree of tearing, you may first want to look at information summarizing stretch mark treatment methods.

If you are wondering if your current management is on the right track, you can check by inquiring via chat consultation regarding your stretch mark condition.

To expect good results at a clinic, the starting point is to first confirm whether the marks are red or white.

For early-stage red marks, Vbeam Prima laser is reported to be effective in preventing the condition from worsening. Starting early tends to lead to a relatively faster return to normal skin, so it is advantageous to understand the progression stages of red stretch marks and respond early.

If the marks have turned white over time or the tearing is prominent, treatment combined with skin regeneration is applied. In the past, fractional lasers like Fraxel were often used, and recently, regenerative treatment using Ultrapulse Encore has been gaining attention. At this stage, active regeneration is needed more than prevention, and repeating laser treatments can activate regeneration, leading to faster results. If the marks have already solidified into white, we recommend referring to the characteristics and management of white stretch marks.

In the consultation room, many people ask, "Will stretch marks disappear if I lose weight?" However, if the marks have already turned white and are torn, losing weight can actually make the area appear sunken, making them more prominent.

If skin elasticity has significantly decreased, a process of restoring collagen around the altered skin is necessary. Appropriate weight management is a good method, but combining it with radiofrequency treatments like Thermage that regenerate lost collagen can be helpful.

There was a time when stretch marks were considered indelible marks that one had to live with for life, but now, cases of noticeable improvement depending on the management status are reported. However, individual results may vary, so it is good to consider the following management practices:

• Regularly check the color and degree of tearing of the marks
• Keep skin hydrated with moisturizing care
• Avoid drastic weight changes and adjust gradually
• Seek consultation and respond quickly, especially in the early stages

Management does not end when treatment is finished. Satisfactory changes can be expected when moisturizing and lifestyle habits are combined.

If you find it difficult to determine what stage your marks are in or which treatment is right for you, we recommend using chat consultation regarding your stretch mark stage before making a decision.

Once considered a lifelong mark, there is now room for improvement if approached according to timing and condition. The first step is to accurately understand your skin condition, focusing on prevention for the red stage and regeneration for the white stage.

Chief Director Lee Sang-ju (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-ju's Profile First Published 2025-05-26 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16

The progression stages and treatment response of stretch marks may vary from person to person, so please confirm an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan through consultation with medical staff.