Stretch marks (striae) develop when the skin is stretched rapidly, leading to changes in the dermal collagen and elastin network. This results in visible linear changes in skin texture and tone. Topical treatments alone have limited ability to significantly remodel established stretch marks, particularly older or more established striae. Medical-grade treatments are designed to work within the dermis to support collagen remodelling and gradual improvement in skin appearance over time.
What you will learn:
- The biological causes of stretch marks (striae) and how they develop in the dermis
- Why topical creams and oils have limited effect on established stretch marks
- How vascular-targeting treatments may help improve redness in early-stage stretch marks
- The role of controlled micro-injury techniques (such as microneedling and energy-based devices) in stimulating collagen remodelling and improving skin texture
When skin is stretched faster than the dermis can structurally adapt, it can lead to changes in collagen and elastin within the deeper layers of the skin. Over time, this may result in linear stretch marks that can appear across areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, or shoulders.
Many patients try retail oils and creams for stretch marks but often see limited visible improvement in established marks. This is because stretch marks involve changes in the deeper dermal layers, including alterations in collagen and elastin structure.
At Telma Skin Clinic in Broadmeadows, we provide medical-grade stretch mark treatment that work within the dermis to support collagen remodelling and improve the appearance of stretch marks over time, helping to refine skin texture and tone.
The Cause Of Stretch Marks on the Body
Stretch marks (striae) develop when the skin is stretched rapidly due to growth, pregnancy, or changes in body weight. This stretching affects the deeper dermal layer of the skin, where collagen and elastin fibres provide strength and elasticity.
As the skin adapts to rapid expansion, the dermal structure becomes altered, leading to visible linear changes in texture and tone. As noted by the American Academy of Dermatology, stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched quickly and the underlying connective tissue is affected.
Early stretch marks (striae rubrae) often appear red or purple due to increased visibility of blood vessels and changes in the dermal structure. Over time, these marks typically fade to a lighter, silvery-white appearance (striae alba) as vascular activity decreases and the skin undergoes ongoing remodelling.
While stretch marks are permanent structural changes in the skin, their appearance can often be improved with medical-grade treatments designed to support collagen remodelling and skin texture refinement.
The Best Treatment for Stretch Marks
Stretch marks (striae) form within the dermal layer when rapid skin stretching leads to changes in collagen and elastin structure. Because these changes occur deeper in the skin, topical treatments alone have limited ability to significantly improve established stretch marks.
At Telma Skin Clinic, treatment is focused on supporting dermal collagen remodelling and improving the appearance of texture and colour over time. The choice of treatment depends on whether the stretch marks are early or more established.
- Vascular Lasers: are commonly used for early red or purple stretch marks to target vascular changes and improve overall skin tone.
- Medical Microneedling: is commonly used for older white stretch marks, helping stimulate collagen remodelling within the dermis to improve skin texture.
Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks
For early-stage red or purple stretch marks (striae rubrae), vascular lasers are commonly used to help improve redness and overall skin tone. These devices work by selectively heating blood vessels within the skin, which can lead to gradual reduction in vascular visibility.
While stretch marks cannot be completely removed, laser stretch marks removal can support long-term improvement in their appearance by stimulating collagen remodelling within the dermis. This helps improve skin texture and may reduce the contrast between stretch marks and surrounding skin.
Treatment outcomes vary depending on the age, depth, and type of stretch marks, and multiple sessions are typically required. The goal of treatment is to progressively improve skin quality and visual appearance over time.
Rebuilding Dermal Texture Through Micro-Injuries
For older stretch marks with textural changes, microneedling is a commonly used treatment that supports skin remodelling. It works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using fine, sterile needles.
According to clinical overviews, this controlled process stimulates the body’s natural wound-healing response, encouraging fibroblast activity and gradual collagen remodelling within the dermis. Over time, this can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of uneven or indented areas.
How Many Sessions Are Needed for Stretch Mark Treatment?
Stretch mark treatment works by stimulating the body’s natural collagen remodelling process, which occurs gradually over time and varies between individuals.
Most patients benefit from a course of approximately 4–6 sessions for treatments such as microneedling or non-ablative laser therapy, typically spaced several weeks apart. The exact number of sessions depends on the type, age, and severity of the stretch marks, as well as individual skin response.
Collagen remodelling continues for several months after treatment, with visible improvements often developing progressively and continuing after the final session.
Topical products alone often have limited effect on established stretch marks. Clinical treatments can help improve skin texture and appearance through collagen remodelling.book your stretch marks treatment consultation at Telma Skin Clinic today.
FAQS
What Causes Stretch Marks on the Body?
Stretch marks develop when the skin is stretched rapidly, leading to changes in collagen and elastin within the dermal layer. This results in structural changes in the skin that appear as linear marks over time.
What Is the Best Treatment for Stretch Marks?
Treatment depends on the type and stage of stretch marks. Early red or purple marks may respond to vascular laser treatments, while older white stretch marks are commonly treated with microneedling or fractional laser therapies to support collagen remodelling.
Can Laser Treatment Remove Stretch Marks Permanently?
Laser treatments cannot completely remove stretch marks, but they may significantly improve their appearance by supporting collagen remodelling and reducing colour and texture differences.
Is Microneedling Effective for Stretch Marks?
Microneedling can help improve the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating the skin’s natural healing response and supporting collagen remodelling within the dermis.
Can Old Stretch Marks Be Treated?
Yes, older stretch marks can be treated. While they are more established, treatments such as microneedling and laser therapy may help improve skin texture and appearance over time.
How Many Sessions Are Needed for Stretch Marks Treatment?
Most patients benefit from a series of treatments, typically around 4–6 sessions depending on the device and severity. Improvement develops gradually and continues for several months after treatment.
