SkinCare Physicians Doctors

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

Published on Feb 7th, 2013 by Blog Admin

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 treatment of 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

New pink red stretch marks Older pale stretch marks
Laser used Pulse Dyed laser (PDL) Fractional laser beam -Fraxel re:pair or Palomar Lux 1540
Discomfort Minimal Minimal with application of numbing cream & cool air
Side effect Potentially light redness, bruising, and or swelling Less redness and swelling
Down time Minimal Minimal
Number of treatment for optimal results 3 to 6 4 to 6

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.

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SkinCare Physicians®

1244 Boylston Street (Route 9)
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467

Learn more about your rights and protections related to the No Surprises Act (HR133).

The dermatologists and other medical professionals at SkinCare Physicians specialize in a wide range of dermatology treatments and services, including laser hair removal, laser skin treatment, hair transplant, eyelid surgery, body contouring, psoriasis, skin cancer, BOTOX® Cosmetic, fillers, and Thermage®. From their offices in Chestnut Hill, they serve Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Newton and Wellesley.

Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.



SkinCare Physicians®
1244 Boylston Street (Route 9)
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467

Phone: (617) 731-1600 Fax: (617) 731-1601

Learn more about your rights and protections related to the No Surprises Act (HR133).

Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.

The dermatologists and other medical professionals at SkinCare Physicians specialize in a wide range of dermatology treatments and services, including laser hair removal, laser skin treatment, hair transplant, eyelid surgery, body contouring, psoriasis, skin cancer, BOTOX® Cosmetic, fillers, and Thermage®. From their offices in Chestnut Hill, they serve Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Newton and Wellesley.