Stretch Mark Treatments

Stretch marks are notably more prevalent in women than men, with occurrence rates varying between 50% and 90%. They are typically seen on the lower abdomen, back or flanks, buttocks, thighs, or breasts. These streaks, which may have a raised texture, occur when the skin stretches rapidly. This can happen for several reasons, such as a growth spurt during puberty, pregnancy, significant weight gain or even as the result of breast implants.

Everyone’s skin responds differently to the stresses of rapid stretching, so not everyone gets stretch marks. Genetics, hormones, and certain medical conditions can influence your risk of developing them. Though stretch marks are very common, significant emotional and psychosocial impact is associated with their appearance, which frequently results in lowered self-esteem and concerns about body image.

Unfortunately, treatments for stretch marks have not been successful in rendering them invisible. Still, some strategies and devices can minimize the streaks, including topical therapies, microneedling, lasers, chemical peels, and, in some cases, surgery. (Read more about each of these in Procedure Details.)

These treatments vary in effectiveness depending on the age and severity of the stretch marks, individual skin types, and the specific characteristics of your stretch marks (such as color and width). It is essential to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs and anatomy.

Here are some scientifically-proven methods that your dermatologist or plastic surgeon may recommend to minimize the appearance of stretch marks, which can help boost confidence and improve body image.

• Topical therapies: Retinoids can be particularly effective for treating red stretch marks (“striae rubra”) soon after they appear. They promote collagen production, which can improve skin texture and color. However, retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. If stretch marks occur during pregnancy, hyaluronic acid and Centella asiatica (Mederma®) have shown promise in preventing or reducing the severity of these “striae gravidarum.”
• Microneedling: This treatment involves using fine needles that penetrate the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process and producing collagen and elastin. Studies have shown that microneedling effectively reduces the appearance of stretch marks.
• Fractional laser therapy: Fractional lasers create microthermal injury zones that also trigger the body’s healing response, leading to the remodeling of collagen and improvement in the appearance of stretch marks. Both ablative and non-ablative fractional lasers have been studied and shown positive results.
• Pulsed dye laser therapy: Effective for early red stretch marks, pulsed dye laser therapy targets blood vessels within the stretch marks to reduce redness and improve texture.
• Chemical peels: By removing the outer layer of the skin, chemical peels can improve the texture and appearance of older, more established stretch marks.
• Microdermabrasion: This mechanical treatment allows the skin to be resurfaced directly, using exfoliating devices to even out skin tone.

Surgical options: If you have significant, long-standing stretch marks, it is important to think about which areas bother you the most and whether there are also features like excess droopy skin (after weight loss, for example) or body contours that you would like to change at the same time. In such cases, a plastic surgeon may surgically remove the streaks as part of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), mommy makeover, or body lift procedure.

To determine which method is ideal for you, consult an expert who understands the intricacies of stretch marks. Be sure to ask about all the risks and benefits of various treatment options.

Before you go

Consult with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Identify the areas of your body where stretch marks most bother you, and be sure to discuss your medical history and any medications you are currently taking.

During the consultation, you can expect to discuss the risks and benefits of various options and attendant recovery processes. Your provider may advise you to avoid sun exposure and certain skin care products prior to and after certain treatments. It is important to note that some treatments, such as retinoids and hydroquinone, are not appropriate for pregnant women. Talk to your provider about the specific preparation you should do, depending on which procedure you choose.

During the procedure

If the treatment plan discussed with your doctor involves procedures like chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, microneedling or laser therapy, these may occur over several sessions. Topical anesthetics may be involved, but the sessions are typically short and done in an outpatient setting. Your downtime will be minimal.

If you are having a more invasive procedure like a tummy tuck, the surgery will be done under general anesthesia. While it will only involve a single day of treatment, the procedure may take several hours and the recovery period will be more involved and longer.

Stretch Mark Treatments Aftercare 

Your recovery regimen will depend on which treatment or surgical procedure you are having.

After procedures such as chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, microneedling or laser therapy, your skin will usually be irritated and inflamed, and you may notice redness, swelling, or oozing. Avoiding sun exposure is crucial because the skin becomes more sensitive and vulnerable to UV damage, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation, delayed healing, and an increased risk of complications. Pain is usually treatable with over-the-counter medications. Depending on the procedure and overall medical health, your doctor may prescribe other treatments like ointments, antivirals, or antibiotics.

If you are getting a tummy tuck, you can expect to have temporary drains inserted to deal with excess blood and fluid. You will receive detailed instructions about how to rest, which activities to avoid, and when to attend follow-up appointments. Be sure to follow these closely.