Scars & Texture
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks (striae) are linear scars from rapid skin stretching during growth, pregnancy or weight change. Dermatologists improve them with vascular laser for red marks and fractional laser, RF microneedling and retinoids for older white marks.
Overview
New red or purple striae respond better than old silvery ones. Complete removal is uncommon, but colour and texture can improve noticeably.
At a glance
Treatment options
Pulsed-dye laser, fractional laser, RF microneedling, topical tretinoin (not during pregnancy).
Sessions
Three to six sessions.
Expectations
Gradual improvement, not erasure.
Frequently asked questions
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
Rarely, but they can become much less visible.
Do creams prevent stretch marks?
Evidence is limited; moisturising may help comfort.
When is the best time to treat?
While marks are still red.
Related
Choose a specialist
See a board-certified dermatologist, not just a “skin clinic”
In Korea, only about 1 in 10 clinics that treat skin is run by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Specialists complete a four-year dermatology residency and a national exam. Our directory lists only clinics in the Association of Korean Dermatologists’ specialist search. This page is general information, not medical advice.