Treatment Options for Stretch Marks
Laser Options for Red and Purple Stretch Marks
Early-stage stretch marks are more responsive to treatment due to their active blood supply.
- Vascular Laser Treatments:
- Target the redness in early stretch marks by reducing blood vessels and stimulating collagen remodeling.
- Recommended in combination with Stratamark Cream, which is safe for use during pregnancy.
- Procedure Details:
- Typically requires 3–4 sessions spaced two weeks apart.
- Treatment lasts 5–15 minutes, with cooling applied to ensure comfort.
- Results significantly improve the appearance but may not restore the skin completely.
Options for White (Mature) Stretch Marks
Mature stretch marks, which lack active blood vessels, are harder to treat. However, improvements are possible with advanced techniques:
- Tixel, CO2 Laser, and RF Skin Needling:
- These treatments stimulate collagen and elastin production to improve texture and reduce scarring.
- Often combined with topical retinoids for enhanced results (not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding).
- Procedure Details:
- Requires 3–5 treatments spaced four weeks apart.
- Numbing cream is applied to ensure comfort during treatment.
Stretch Mark Creams: Evidence-Based Options
- Stratamark Cream:
- A silicone-based gel that hydrates and occludes the skin, promoting collagen production.
- Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Recommended during the second trimester and for 2–3 months postpartum.
- Prescription Vitamin A (Retinoids):
- Stimulates collagen regeneration and improves the appearance of existing stretch marks.
- Not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Avoid Ineffective Products:
Popular creams like cocoa butter and bio-oil lack scientific evidence for preventing or treating stretch marks, offering only basic hydration without addressing structural skin changes.
PRP and Microneedling for Stretch Mark Reduction
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, combined with microneedling, is another effective treatment for stretch marks.
- How It Works:
- PRP, derived from the patient’s own blood, is injected into the skin to stimulate healing and collagen production.
- Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries, enhancing the skin’s ability to repair and regenerate.
- Details:
- A typical course involves 4 sessions spaced fortnightly or monthly.
- Cost: $790 for an area approximately the size of the face.
Tixel for Stretch Marks
Tixel uses pure heat to create controlled micro-injuries, stimulating collagen and elastin while reducing the appearance of redness in newer stretch marks.
- Procedure Details:
- 4 or more treatments are recommended, spaced four weeks apart.
- Cost: $660 for two treatments (area approximately the size of the face).
- Combination Therapy:
- Works best when paired with topical retinoids to enhance collagen stimulation (not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding).
What Influences Stretch Mark Treatment Outcomes?
Individual responses to stretch mark treatments vary widely and depend on factors such as:
- Overall Health: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can enhance healing and collagen production.
- Environmental Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to pollution can hinder skin repair.
- Genetics: Some individuals naturally heal better due to a stronger immune response.
Key Takeaways
- Early Intervention: Red or purple stretch marks are more responsive to treatment.
- Combination Approach: Using clinically proven creams alongside advanced treatments like lasers or Tixel enhances results.
- Realistic Expectations: While stretch marks cannot be entirely erased, their appearance can be improved with the right combination of treatments.
Book an initial skin consultation with our laser therapist, Christine. This cost is $50, redeemable with any treatment or product purchased on the day. Please book online or call 07 3350 5447 for a free consultation.