During rapid growth in adolescence, the skin sometimes cannot keep up with the body's growth rate, leading to stretch marks that appear like cracks. Your first concern might be, "I'm at an age sensitive about my appearance; will these remain like scars?" To answer directly, adolescent stretch marks are reported to be more favorable for recovery when treatment begins early, while redness is still present.
Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon has compiled the principles and management directions for adolescent stretch marks.
Why Do Adolescent Stretch Marks Occur?
Adolescence is a period of rapid physical development, with changes in body shape and weight gain. During this time, the dermis layer of the skin may not withstand the rapid growth rate and partially tear, leaving line-like marks on the surface. These are commonly referred to as growth-related stretch marks.
Because the process of growing taller and developing muscles and bones itself puts a strain on the skin, adolescents with faster growth rates are more prone to experiencing stretch marks.
Where Do They Commonly Appear?
Adolescent stretch marks tend to appear in areas that rapidly increase in size with growth.
The calves and thighs, which lengthen and develop muscles as one grows taller, and the buttocks, which increase in volume, are common sites where adolescent stretch marks are observed.
- Male students often develop them on their backs during sudden growth spurts.
- Female students may experience them in the breast area.
- Legs (calves and thighs) and buttocks are common areas regardless of gender.
- Even among peers, the location and severity may differ depending on individual physical characteristics.
The reason why the location and extent vary from person to person is ultimately due to each individual's unique growth pattern and skin characteristics.
What's the Difference Between Red and White Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks change in color and shape over time. Newly formed stretch marks are reddish, but over time, the color fades, turning white, and the surface tends to remain slightly indented.
If they are very mild, they may fade and become less noticeable after growth is complete.
However, in more severe cases, the red color transitions to white, leaving indented marks. These two stages can be distinguished as follows:
| Category | Red Stretch Marks | White Stretch Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Relatively early stage | After some time has passed |
| Color | Reddish tint | Turns white |
| Surface | Relatively flat | Tends to remain indented |
| Management Approach | Favorable for inhibiting progression | Focus on surface improvement |
It is reported that starting management during the stage when redness remains can, to some extent, reduce the progression to white stretch marks.
If you have more questions about the color and depth of stretch marks, you can find information in Understanding Red Stretch Mark Symptoms, and if they have turned white over time, it's also good to refer to White Stretch Mark Information.
Can Weight Loss or Creams Help?
In the clinic, we often receive questions like, "If I lose weight, will my stretch marks disappear too?" In mild, early cases, weight loss may be helpful.
However, if the stretch marks are large or deeply indented, losing weight might even make them appear more sunken, like air deflating from a balloon. Therefore, the approach needs to vary depending on the severity.
What about creams? Generally, dry skin tends to develop stretch marks more easily, so the role of commonly known stretch mark creams can mostly be seen as moisturizing. Consistently applying moisturizers can help keep the skin soft and may temporarily help delay the appearance of stretch marks.
Here's a summary of good practices to incorporate into your daily life:
- Consistently use moisturizers to prevent dry skin.
- Manage weight gradually, as sudden weight changes can increase skin strain.
- If redness appears, advance your consultation time before it progresses to white stretch marks.
- It's better to have your skin condition checked directly by a professional rather than self-diagnosing.
If you feel limited by creams or lifestyle management alone, we recommend exploring Stretch Mark Treatment Methods.
If you're unsure about what to do at which stage for adolescent stretch marks, feel free to ask through Inquire via Chat Consultation for Adolescent Stretch Marks.
Why Treatment Timing is Crucial for Adolescent Stretch Marks
It is advisable to address adolescent stretch marks as early as possible. It is known that treating them while redness remains can, to some extent, reduce the progression to white stretch marks, and adolescent red stretch marks are reported to have some potential for reversal. Therefore, not missing the timing is key.
How is Laser Treatment Performed?
For red stretch marks, Vbeam Prima laser is primarily used. If adolescent stretch marks have progressed from red to white, Ultrapulse Encore becomes a more suitable method. These laser treatments may take about 2 to 3 weeks for scabs to form and fall off after the procedure, so it's good to consider this when scheduling your visit. Recovery time and effectiveness may vary individually.
The overall process and the direction suitable for your skin condition can be discussed during your consultation.
If you are concerned about your adolescent child's stretch marks or are contemplating treatment timing, please use Inquire via Chat Consultation for Stretch Mark Treatment.
Written by Chief Director Lee Sang-joo, who is the Chief Director of Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon and a board-certified dermatologist. He has extensive experience in treating pigment and scars and serves as the President of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 and an adjunct professor at the Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine. View Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2024-04-05 / Last reviewed July 23, 2026
This content provides general information for understanding and results may vary from person to person depending on the area and extent of progression. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, please consult with a board-certified dermatologist.