Stretch Marks
Also known as striae, stretch marks occur when the skin stretches rapidly due to growth, weight gain, or pregnancy. They appear as long, narrow streaks that can be red, purple, or white, depending on their age. At Scars & Lasers, we offer advanced laser treatments and skin resurfacing techniques to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and restore smoother skin.
Stretch marks, or striae, are a common skin condition characterised by long, narrow streaks or lines that appear on the skin. They often develop when the skin stretches or shrinks too quickly, leading to the tearing of the dermis. Stretch marks are most commonly seen on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, and breasts, especially after pregnancy, rapid growth, or significant weight changes. While they are harmless, they can cause concern for those looking to improve the appearance of their skin. Treatment focuses on minimising their appearance with laser therapy to promote collagen production and improve skin texture.
The Science Behind It
Stretch marks form when the skin is stretched beyond its capacity, causing the middle layer (dermis) to tear and resulting in red, purple, or white streaks on the surface. Over time, these marks may fade but rarely disappear completely. The loss of collagen and elastin fibers during this rapid stretching or shrinking process disrupts the skin’s structure, leading to visible scars. Early intervention with collagen-boosting treatments can help improve the appearance of stretch marks and encourage skin healing.
What are the best lasers for stretch marks?
The best laser options for stretch marks depend on whether we’re treating newer red/pink marks or more mature white/silver marks. VBeam® Pulse Dye Laser is typically best for reducing redness in early stretch marks, while Acclaro UltraClear and Fraxel® Dual Laser are used to improve texture and support collagen remodelling to help stretch marks blend more smoothly with surrounding skin. Often, a combination approach delivers the most natural-looking improvement over a series of sessions.
Treatment at a Glance
| Treatment Type | Number of Sessions | Procedure Time | Typical Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acclaro UltraClear® | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Fraxel® Dual Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Laser Assisted Drug Delivery | 3 - 5 sessions | 30 minutes | 1 - 3 days |
| Picosecond laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Vbeam® Pulse Dye Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
Frequently Asked Questions
While treatments can significantly improve their appearance, stretch marks cannot be completely removed. They can, however, become much less noticeable with the right procedures.
Important ACC & Treatment Disclaimer
ACC funding eligibility is determined by the Accident Compensation Corporation on a case-by-case basis. Approval is dependent on injury acceptance, clinical indication, and ACC policy at the time of application. Not all treatments offered at Scars & Lasers are ACC-funded. Private fees may apply for unfunded components of care.
Learn more about ACC IncidentsTargeted dermal remodelling to improve stretch mark texture, tone, and structural integrity.
Book Your Consultation
Take the first step towards healthier skin. Leave your details below and our friendly team will be in touch to secure your appointment.