Stretch marks are a form of scar in the skin that form when the skin has thinned and stretched out. Treatment for stretch marks is similar to that for other scars; The goal is to get the skin to pull itself back together and improve. Treatments that help stimulate collagen and improve stretch marks include: Morpheus8, microneedling, fractional laser treatment, and micro laser peel. Growth factors or other serums may be used in conjunction with these treatments.
I developed stretch marks on my inner thighs from taking an oral contraceptive. After a year off the pill, the stretch marks were still very red and rough in texture. I decided to try microneedling, and after one session the texture of the stretch marks was noticeably improved. The procedure itself is painless as long as the numbing cream completely covers the areas you are treating. Several months later, I did a second session (each session was $600 for a total of $1200). The texture of the stretch marks is even better after the second procedure. The marks feel smooth to the touch, however some redness remains so I will probably follow up with a laser treatment to address that. I’m glad I did the microneedling sessions, because the texture of the marks would not have improved with time.
Actual Patient of Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery
Read More ReviewsWhen our providers perform microneedling, they use very tiny needles to make microscopic channels, causing controlled injury to the skin. This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Freshly produced collagen and elastin rejuvenate skin and improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Intense light therapies stimulate collagen, elastin, and melanin production. One of the most effective options out there is intense pulsed light therapy, which is effective at treating older stretch marks, as well as fractional photothermolysis, a resurfacing laser technique that increases in the number of collagen and elastin fibers, according to a 2009 review published in the journal of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. While pulsated dye and 1,450 nm diode lasers are also effective, you should know that they can actually spur skin pigment changes in patients with dark complexions.
