What stretch marks are
Stretch marks are lines or bands that appear when the skin is stretched faster than it can adapt. They often show up on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, breasts and upper arms, and are very common after growth spurts, pregnancy, weight changes or rapid muscle gain.
They usually go through two stages. Early marks tend to be red, pink or purple, sometimes slightly raised or itchy. Over months they mature into pale, silvery or white lines that may feel slightly sunken or crinkled. Both stages can be improved, but early, coloured marks generally respond better than older white ones.
Why they happen: the layers involved
In our 8-layer Skin Architecture model, stretch marks are a dermis problem. When skin is stretched quickly, the collagen and elastic fibres in the dermis are disrupted and tear. The body repairs the damage, but — as with any scar — the new tissue is organised differently from the surrounding skin. That is why stretch marks have a different texture and colour.
Hormones influence how easily this happens, which is why pregnancy and adolescence are common triggers. Genetics play a role too, and some people are simply more prone to them. Because the change lies in the dermis rather than on the surface, creams alone usually have limited effect once marks have formed.
How Obliv approaches stretch marks
- Assessment first. A director examines the marks, notes their colour, depth and age, and considers your skin type. This decides whether the priority is calming redness, improving texture, or both.
- Remodelling the dermis. Treatments that create controlled micro-injury in the dermis encourage new collagen and can help stretch marks look softer and closer to the surrounding skin. Devices we use for textured scars, such as Potenza RF microneedling or U-Pulse fractional CO2 , work on this principle; the doctor will recommend whether and how they suit your stretch marks.
- Addressing colour. For red or purple early marks, approaches that target redness may be considered to help the colour fade.
- Supporting skin quality. Hydration and regeneration support, such as skin boosters , may be suggested alongside to improve the overall look and feel of the area.
- Barrier care. As with all our resurfacing treatments, the skin barrier is supported before and protected after each session.
What to expect
Stretch marks are improved gradually over a course of sessions spaced several weeks apart, rather than in one visit. Depending on the treatment, you may have redness, mild swelling or small marks for a few days; resurfacing with fractional CO2 needs more recovery time than microneedling. Treatment aims to make marks less noticeable, not to remove them completely, and results vary from person to person.
Caring for your skin between sessions
- Protect treated areas from the sun, using SPF50+ on any exposed skin.
- Moisturise daily to support the barrier.
- Follow the aftercare instructions for your specific treatment.
Visiting from abroad
Because stretch marks need a course of treatment, we can start in Seoul and plan further sessions around future trips. If you are also concerned about loose skin , mention it so we can plan both together. Message us on WhatsApp with photos and your travel dates.
Red or white? Why timing matters
The age of a stretch mark has a big influence on how it is treated. Early marks still have active blood vessels and ongoing remodelling in the dermis, which tends to make them more responsive. Older white marks have settled into mature scar tissue, so the aim shifts towards improving texture and making them blend with the surrounding skin.
- Red, pink or purple marks: often a good time to start, with a focus on colour and early collagen support.
- White or silvery marks: usually need a longer course aimed at texture, and expectations are kept modest.
- After pregnancy: treatment is generally planned once you are ready; mention if you are breastfeeding so the doctor can advise.
If you also have scars from surgery or injury in the same area, our textured scars page explains how those are assessed.
At a glance
- Layer: Dermis (a form of scarring)
- Best treated: Early, while still red or pink
- Main options: Dermal remodelling (e.g. RF microneedling, fractional CO2), skin boosters
- Sessions: A course, several weeks apart
- Downtime: From a few days, depending on treatment
- Cost: Ask us on WhatsApp for a personalised quote
Questions about stretch marks
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
No treatment can promise complete removal. The aim is to make them softer and less noticeable, and results vary from person to person.
Are old white stretch marks treatable?
They can often be improved in texture, though they usually respond more slowly than newer, coloured marks. The doctor will give you a realistic view after examining them.
Can I have treatment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Please tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Many treatments are postponed during this time, and the doctor will advise what is appropriate.
How much downtime should I expect?
It depends on the treatment. Microneedling typically involves a few days of redness, while fractional CO2 needs a longer recovery. Your doctor will explain this before you decide.
Talk to us about stretch marks
Message us on WhatsApp in English. Obliv Clinic Seoul Origin, Pagoda Tower, 93 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu — about 5 minutes on foot from Jonggak and Euljiro 1-ga stations, close to Myeongdong.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary from person to person and are decided with a doctor at consultation.
