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Those stubborn stretch marks: Don’t despair, non-invasive laser treatments work!

Stretch marks can be a common result of weight change, rapid growth, or certain inherited conditions. While not of a medical concern, their appearance can cause significant emotional and mental distress. While there are many topical agents that are marketed for stretch mark improvement, the results are minimal, at best. However, non-invasive laser treatments are available for both newer pink-red stretch marks, as well as older skin-colored or pale ones, and are effective on all body sites and skin types.

Treatments for new stretch marks

New or pink-red stretch marks can be efficiently treated with a series of treatments using the Pulse Dyed laser (PDL). This treatment targets the pink-red color in the stretch marks, in addition to helping the body build new collagen. Generally, a series of three to six laser treatments is needed for optimal improvement. Although PDL treatments are well tolerated with minimal discomfort, slight redness, bruising, and or swelling can appear afterwards.

Treatments for older stretch marks

Results of non-invasive fractional laser treatments on older stretch marks

For older or skin-colored stretch marks, a different approach using fractionated, non-ablative lasers, such as the Fraxel re:pair or Palomar Lux 1540 can be employed. Fractional non-ablative lasers use broken-up, or fractionated, micro beams of energy to heat small columns of skin while leaving areas of untreated skin between the micro beams. The damaged columns of skin undergo new collagen formation and in turn, produce healthy, rejuvenated skin. This fractionated method of treating the skin leads to less down-time after treatments and results in less redness and swelling. Additionally, the application of a numbing cream during the procedure, along with using cooled air, minimizes discomfort. To treat skin colored stretch marks with this method, a series of 4-6 treatments is needed.

Stretch mark treatment options at a glance

If you are bothered by your stretch marks, consider booking an appointment with one of the dermatologists at Skincare Physicians to discuss these effective and non-invasive treatment methods.

7 Responses to Those stubborn stretch marks: Don’t despair, non-invasive laser treatments work!

• Thalia says:

  March 10, 2021 at 1:04 pm

  I’m interested in treating my stretchmarks.

  Reply
  • Blog Admin says:

    March 11, 2021 at 11:55 am

    Please call our office at 617 731-1600 to schedule a consultation, so that we can assess the color and texture of your stretchmarks and make the best recommendations.

    Reply
• margia says:

  October 3, 2015 at 2:02 pm

  i will like to make a appt a soon has posible please

  Reply
• Amanda says:

  July 18, 2015 at 9:28 pm

  Do you offer the coolbeam laser?

  Reply
  • Blog Admin says:

    July 21, 2015 at 8:39 am

    We do not offer the Cool Beam Laser. The most effective lasers for stretch marks are the Fraxel and Pulsed Dye lasers. Our staff can help determine which of these lasers are best for each patient’s stretch marks.

    Reply
• Reich Deguzman says:

  September 4, 2014 at 5:40 pm

  I want to know about the cool beam laser for my stretch marks that u have for years and i live in las vegas, do you guys have a clinic here for me to get treated?

  Reply
  • SkinCare Physicians says:

    September 5, 2014 at 5:17 pm

    Hello, no we do not have a practice in Las Vegas. Come visit in Boston.

    Reply