[Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon] Stretch Mark Laser: How to Maximize Cost-Effectiveness and Results, Equipment Selection by Condition is Key

Stretch marks are lines that appear on the skin surface when the dermis layer stretches rapidly. When first discovered in front of a mirror, questions like "Can this be erased with a laser, is it worth the cost?" often come to mind. To put it simply, for stretch marks, the choice of equipment and the expected changes vary depending on whether they are currently in the red or white stage, so understanding your condition is the starting point for cost-effectiveness.

When the skin is rapidly stretched in a short period due to weight changes, pregnancy, or growth spurts, collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis break, leading to the appearance of stretch marks. Initially, they begin as red stretch marks with active vascular reactions, and over time, the color fades, and they solidify into white stretch marks. Even for the same stretch marks, the signals the skin sends differ depending on the stage, so the approach cannot be the same.

Stretch marks that appear in the early stages are reddish, which means that vascular reactions are active. During this period, skin regeneration is also relatively active, so combining appropriate treatment can lead to rapid improvement.

Vbeam Prima is a vascular laser device that can be considered for early stretch marks accompanied by redness. The treatment direction is set to focus on reducing the red tone, and it is generally performed within a range that minimizes skin irritation. The degree and speed of color fading may vary from person to person.

Over time, stretch marks turn white, and the skin may appear thin and sunken. At this stage, it is important to focus on inducing the regeneration of skin tissue, beyond simply restoring color.

Ultrapulse Alpha is a fractional CO₂ laser device that induces regeneration by providing microscopic stimulation to the skin. The intensity and interval are adjusted according to the skin condition, and regeneration is enhanced by treating in multiple sessions. For stretch marks that have already turned white, it is more realistic to aim for gradual improvement rather than expecting significant changes in a short period. Understanding the flow of stretch mark treatment by stage makes it much easier to plan the number of sessions.

In the consultation room, it is not uncommon to find that even with the same concern of "wanting to remove stretch marks," the skin actually shows a mix of red and white stages.

If you are new to stretch mark treatment, you can easily clarify your questions by chatting with us about equipment selection by condition.

If you decide on treatment based solely on laser cost, you may end up receiving a procedure that is not suitable for your stage. Reviewing the following points before starting can help reduce the gap between expectations and results:

• Current condition diagnosis: Equipment selection varies depending on whether the stretch marks are red or white. Uniform treatment without diagnosis may lead to low satisfaction.
• Plan tailored to equipment characteristics: Not only the type of laser but also the intensity, interval, and number of sessions should be designed together.
• Area and skin thickness confirmation: Even with the same equipment, the approach may vary depending on the area and skin thickness.
• Concomitant use of skin boosters: To aid the regenerative environment after laser treatment, skin boosters such as Rejuran or Juvelook may be used in combination. Whether to apply them depends on individual skin conditions, so it is best to decide after consulting with a specialist.

Stretch mark treatment is approached with the goal of making them less noticeable rather than completely eliminating them. The response may vary from person to person, and the number of sessions and recovery period may also differ. Therefore, rather than using cost as the sole criterion, it is better to comprehensively consider equipment selection appropriate for the current condition, a treatment plan through sufficient consultation, and whether to combine post-treatment care to increase satisfaction.

If you are unsure about the stage of your stretch marks or which equipment is suitable, we recommend checking first by chatting with us to find out about treatment for your stretch mark stage.

Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School; Dermatology Resident, Severance Hospital; President, Korean Society for Dermatology) Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile First published 2026-02-25 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16

This content is for general information purposes only, and results may vary depending on individual skin conditions. Accurate diagnosis and treatment plans should be determined through consultation with a dermatologist.