Stretch Marks
Laser treatments to improve the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating collagen and skin remodelling.
What is Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks (striae) are a common dermal condition that occurs when the skin is stretched rapidly due to growth, pregnancy, weight changes, or hormonal fluctuations. This stretching causes disruption of collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis, resulting in visible linear scarring.
How do Stretch Marks Form?
Occurs when the skin is stretched rapidly due to growth, pregnancy, weight changes, or hormonal fluctuations.
Stretch Marks Types
Striae Rubra (Red/Purple)
Newest stretch marks (up to 6 months), caused by blood vessels showing through the damaged dermis. Often itchy and the most responsive to treatment.
Striae Alba (White/Silvery)
Older, mature stretch marks that have faded. Slightly sunken (atrophic) and more challenging to treat.
Striae Gravidarum
Stretch marks caused by pregnancy, usually appearing on the abdomen, breasts, and thighs.
Striae Nigra
Black or dark brown stretch marks, often appearing on darker skin tones.
Hypertrophic Stretch Marks
Raised, thickened lines rather than sunken ones.
Signs & Symptoms
Red, purple, or pink linear streaks in the early stage; white or silvery atrophic lines in the mature stage; slightly indented or textured skin; commonly on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and arms; more visible after growth, pregnancy, or weight changes.
Our Treatment Options
Cynosure Icon 1540 Laser
Delivers controlled microthermal zones into the dermis. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, helping to remodel damaged skin and improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.
What to Expect During Your Session
Consultation
A full assessment is performed to evaluate stretch mark type, age, skin quality, and treatment suitability.
Skin Assessment
Your provider examines depth, colour (red vs white striae), and location to tailor laser settings.
Treatment Application
The Cynosure Icon 1540 Laser delivers fractional laser energy to targeted areas. Treatment is generally well tolerated and may feel like a warm prickling sensation.
Post-Treatment Care
Mild redness and sensitivity are expected and typically resolve within a few days.
Aftercare Guidance
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed areas
- Keep skin well moisturized to support healing
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning
- Avoid harsh exfoliants for several days
- Follow all clinician-recommended skincare instructions
Consultation
A full assessment is performed to evaluate stretch mark type, age, skin quality, and treatment suitability.
Skin Assessment
Your provider examines depth, colour (red vs white striae), and location to tailor laser settings.
Treatment Application
The Cynosure Icon 1540 Laser delivers fractional laser energy to targeted areas. Treatment is generally well tolerated and may feel like a warm prickling sensation.
Post-Treatment Care
Mild redness and sensitivity are expected and typically resolve within a few days.
Aftercare Guidance
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed areas
- Keep skin well moisturized to support healing
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning
- Avoid harsh exfoliants for several days
- Follow all clinician-recommended skincare instructions
Results Expectation
Improvement in stretch marks is gradual and occurs as new collagen forms and skin remodels. Most patients require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results. Visible improvement continues to develop over time.
Important Note: Stretch marks are permanent dermal scars. While treatments such as the Cynosure Icon 1540 Laser can significantly improve their appearance, they are not completely removable, and results are not finite. Maintenance treatments may be recommended depending on skin response and lifestyle factors.
Why Choose Our Treatment?
Icon 1540 Laser
Fractional laser stimulates collagen and elastin deep in the dermis to remodel damaged skin
Non-Invasive
No surgery or downtime — controlled microthermal energy triggers natural skin renewal
Well Tolerated
Described as a warm prickling sensation with mild post-treatment redness
Visible Improvement
Progressive reduction in stretch mark appearance over a series of treatments
Before & After
See the difference our treatments can make.
* Individual results will vary and are not guaranteed.