Stretch Mark Treatment: Why Early Treatment is Crucial – [Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon]

Stretch marks are marks left when the dermis tears because the skin cannot keep up with the rate of stretching, making them a type of scar. When you first discover these marks, the first question that comes to mind is likely, "Will applying ointment alone make them disappear?" To answer directly, once formed, stretch marks are difficult to disappear naturally, and laser treatment tailored to their color and depth is key.

As the hot weather continues, clothing becomes thinner and shorter, making previously hidden skin marks particularly noticeable. If you see red or white stripe-like marks when dressing or undressing, and feel a slight indentation when touched, you might suspect stretch marks.

Stretch marks occur when the skin cannot keep up with rapid growth or sudden weight gain, causing the dermis to tear and get damaged. Since they are traces of a torn dermal layer, they are essentially a type of scar. Therefore, many people look into Stretch Mark Treatment because applying ointment or dieting does not satisfactorily lighten the marks themselves.

It is important to note that stretch marks are not just a cosmetic concern; they can also undermine daily confidence. Therefore, rather than neglecting them, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis of your current condition.

Stretch marks change in color and depth over time. Initially, they appear reddish, and this stage is known to be a period when tissue reactions are still active, allowing for relatively quick improvement.

However, over time, the expanded blood vessels shrink, and the color turns white, taking on the appearance of old stretch marks. At this stage, indentations in the skin also appear, making them more noticeable. When indentations are prominent, they may not be smoothly covered by makeup, causing more concern.

As red stretch marks and white stretch marks differ in condition, the approach to treatment also varies.

Stretch mark treatment focuses on laser therapy tailored to the condition. Vbeam Prima and Ultrapulse Encore lasers are typically used, and the decision is made after carefully assessing whether your stretch marks are predominantly red or have already turned white with indentations.

Vbeam Prima, a vascular laser, is used for reddish stretch marks. It helps calm dilated blood vessels, reducing the likelihood of further stretch mark progression. At this stage, combining laser treatment with home care, such as stretch mark ointments, can provide some supplementary benefits, making it an opportune time for relatively quick intervention. This is why early treatment is important.

Key management points when redness is prominent are as follows:

• Check the condition without delay when marks are red.
• Consistently combine home care, such as prescribed stretch mark ointments.
• Reduce friction or excessive sun exposure that could cause irritation.
• Record changes and share them during consultations.

If it's difficult to judge due to ambiguous color or indentation, you can first inquire lightly via chat consultation if you're curious about your stretch mark condition.

Old stretch marks are characterized by indentations due to a lack of collagen in the dermal layer. In such cases, it is necessary to boost the skin's regenerative capacity to alleviate symptoms, and Ultrapulse Encore, a CO2 fractional laser, is utilized.

It delivers laser energy deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production, encouraging the indented areas to naturally fill in. While the treatment period may be longer than for red stretch marks, consistent treatment has been reported to result in recovery to the point where the marks are barely noticeable. Rather than giving up because it's late, it's better to approach it according to the stage.

The timing of stretch mark treatment is very important. As mentioned earlier, the early stage, when red stretch marks first appear, is the best time. On the other hand, if the stretch marks have already turned white, a comprehensive treatment aimed at regeneration is necessary. Skin regeneration takes a considerable amount of time, and there are individual differences in this period depending on the person and the age of the stretch marks.

At this time, it is reported that combining treatments such as Water-Luminous Injection from the skin booster category can accelerate regeneration and create synergy, enhancing treatment effectiveness. However, whether to combine treatments and their intensity should be determined through consultation with medical staff, as it varies depending on individual skin conditions.

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body. Particular attention should be paid to treatment if they occur in areas prone to pigmentation, such as the legs or calves. In consultations, it is often observed that the recovery pattern and management methods for stretch marks can differ significantly depending on the affected area.

Let's review important considerations before treatment:

• Distinguish between red and white stretch marks by color.
• Check for accompanying indentations by touch.
• Observe if the affected area is prone to pigmentation.
• Document any past treatments or ointment use.
• Discuss the expected recovery period in advance.

Stretch marks require customized treatment depending on their type and skin condition. To lighten the marks more safely and naturally, we recommend starting at a place that can develop a stage-appropriate plan with various equipment. The earlier you respond, the smoother the recovery can be.

If you find it difficult to determine the stage of your stretch marks or which laser is right for you, it's better to check with a professional rather than worrying alone.

Chief Director Dr. Sang-Joo Lee (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine & Graduate School, completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association)

Chief Director Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile

First Published 2025-07-28 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16

This content is for general information purposes only, and treatment effects and progress may vary individually. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and treatment direction should be determined through consultation with medical staff.