Stretch marks are a permanent structural change in the skin, as they involve damage to the collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis. This means that they are not merely a superficial cosmetic defect, but a form of micro-damage to the deeper layers of the skin. For this reason, it is not possible for them to disappear completely on their own. Over time, however, their appearance may change – they become lighter in colour, less visible and stand out less clearly against the surrounding skin.
In the early stages, when stretch marks are red or purple in colour, there is greater potential to improve their appearance, as the biological processes are still active. At a later stage, when they turn white, they become more stable and resemble atrophic scars, which means they are less likely to heal spontaneously.
Modern methods, such as laser therapy, microneedle radiofrequency and microneedling, help to stimulate collagen production and improve the skin’s structure. As a result, stretch marks may become shallower, narrower and less visible, although the aim of the treatment is not to „remove” them completely, but to improve the quality and structure of the skin as much as possible.