Not all stretch marks look the same. Some are red, pink or purple, others white and pearly. This difference in colour is not just a matter of appearance: it corresponds to two very distinct stages, and it changes everything about how to care for them1,2.
Red stretch marks: the recent stage
At first, a stretch mark is a scar that is still active. The dermis is the site of an inflammatory reaction and of dilated small blood vessels, hence the red, pink or purple colour. It may be slightly raised and sometimes itchy. Dermatologists call these striae rubrae1.
It is at this stage that the skin is most receptive: repair processes are still under way, which leaves real room for action2.
White stretch marks: the settled stage
Over time, sometimes after several months or years, the inflammation disappears. The stretch mark fades, becomes white or pearly, thinner and slightly sunken. Dermatologists call these striae albae. The scar is then stabilised, which makes it harder to fade1.
Why this distinction is essential
- On a red stretch mark, a targeted treatment applied early and regularly has the best chance of acting on its appearance2.
- On a white stretch mark, cosmetic treatments have more limited effects. Aesthetic medicine techniques, such as certain lasers or microneedling, can improve their appearance and are a matter for a dermatologist1,3.
In other words: the earlier you act, the better. That is precisely why we developed a fading cream dedicated to recent, red or purple stretch marks, and a prevention cream to support the skin before they appear.
How can I tell what stage my stretch marks are at?
Look at their colour: red, pink or purple, they are recent; white or pearly, they are settled. A stretch mark can also be in transition, with a paler centre and edges that are still pinkish. If in doubt, a pharmacist or dermatologist can advise you.
The key takeaway
Red stretch marks are a window of opportunity: it is the right time to act, consistently. White stretch marks are not a lost cause, but they call for different, more invasive solutions.
Sources
- Al-Himdani S, Ud-Din S, Gilmore S, Bayat A. Striae distensae: a comprehensive review and evidence-based evaluation of prophylaxis and treatment. Br J Dermatol. 2014;170(3):527-547.
- Ud-Din S, McGeorge D, Bayat A. Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2016;30(2):211-222.
- Elsaie ML, Baumann LS, Elsaaiee LT. Striae distensae (stretch marks) and different modalities of therapy: an update. Dermatol Surg. 2009;35(4):563-573.