What is Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, or striae, occur when rapid stretching disrupts collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis. Early marks, called striae rubrae, are red, pink or purple and may be slightly raised or itchy. Over time they mature into striae albae, which are pale, silvery and slightly depressed. Common areas include the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks and upper arms. Triggers include puberty, pregnancy, weight changes, muscle building and long-term steroid use. Early red marks generally respond better to treatment than older white ones.

Who it's for

Treatment may suit you if you have:

• Red, pink or purple streaks that appeared recently
• White or silvery lines with a slightly sunken texture
• Stretch marks on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks or arms
• Marks after pregnancy, weight change or rapid growth
• Many new stretch marks without a clear cause, which may warrant a medical check

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist first examines the stretch marks to determine their stage and review possible causes, such as medication or hormonal factors. The treatment plan is based on color, depth and your skin type.

A key option at Egg Clinic is Joule MLP, a multi-wavelength light platform covering 420 to 1400 nm. It delivers repeated pulses of light that may help constrict redness in early marks and stimulate collagen remodeling for texture, with a sapphire cooling tip to protect the skin. For older, white marks, fractional laser options such as the CO2 laser may be discussed to help remodel the dermis. Topical retinoids may support early marks, but are not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What to expect

Your visit starts with a consultation and assessment. Sessions typically take 10 to 20 minutes, and numbing cream may be applied depending on the area. You may feel warmth or a light snapping sensation. Afterwards, a temporary burning feeling and redness are common and usually subside within a few days; fine scabs may form and fall off naturally. Full recovery of the skin can take about three to four weeks. Treatments are generally repeated every one to two weeks in a series. Stretch marks may become less noticeable, but they are unlikely to disappear completely, and results vary.

Aftercare

• Apply moisturizer and sunscreen to treated areas
• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas and steam rooms for about one week
• Do not remove any scabs; let them fall off naturally
• Avoid peeling products and scrubs on treated skin
• Wear loose clothing to reduce friction on treated areas
• Gentle washing is fine from the day after treatment

Frequently asked questions

Can stretch marks be removed completely?

Treatments can help improve color and texture, but stretch marks rarely disappear entirely. Early red marks usually respond better than older white ones.

Can I treat stretch marks during pregnancy?

Most laser treatments and retinoids are postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your physician can suggest safe skincare in the meantime.

How many sessions will I need?

Most people need a series of sessions. Your physician will recommend a number based on the age, color and depth of your stretch marks.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is located at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors), directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 on Line 3. We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. To book a consultation, call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.