The difference between white and red stretch marks lies in their age; red marks are newer, while white marks are older.
Stretch marks, clinically known as striae, are a common type of scar that develops when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. The color of these marks provides a key indicator of their age and stage of development.
Red Stretch Marks (Striae Rubra)
- Appearance: Initially, stretch marks often appear as red or purple lesions.
- Age: These vibrant colors typically indicate that the stretch mark is relatively new or recently formed.
- Activity: At this stage, there is still blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which gives them their reddish hue. They are sometimes referred to as striae rubra.
White Stretch Marks (Striae Alba)
- Appearance: Over time, the red or purple marks will typically fade to white or silver.
- Age: This lighter color signifies that the stretch mark is older and more mature.
- Activity: The blood vessels have narrowed, and the collagen production has changed, resulting in a scar that is less noticeable in color but often remains as a textural change in the skin. These are known as striae alba.
Essentially, the transition from red to white is a natural part of the stretch mark's evolution as it heals and matures.
Here's a simple comparison based on the color difference:
| Feature | Red Stretch Marks (Striae Rubra) | White Stretch Marks (Striae Alba) |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Red or Purple | White or Silver |
| Age/Stage | Newer, Early Stage | Older, Mature Stage |
| Blood Flow | More active | Less active |
| Inflammation | More present | Less present |
Understanding this color difference helps in recognizing the stage of the stretch mark, although treatment approaches may vary regardless of color. The key takeaway is that color is primarily an indicator of time since the mark first appeared.
