Stretch marks
Stretch marks are among the most common skin imperfections affecting young people, pregnant women and those who have experienced rapid weight fluctuations, and are among the most resistant to home remedies. They don’t disappear with creams, nor can they be gotten rid of through exercise. But today, thanks to the latest laser and fractional radiofrequency technologies, it is possible to reduce them significantly, improve skin texture and make stretch marks much less visible, in a safe and professional manner.
What are stretch marks and how do they form?
Stretch marks are streaks on the skin that result from a break in the collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis, caused by rapid and intense stretching of the skin. When the skin is subjected to tension exceeding its ability to adapt due to a sudden change in weight, the rapid growth typical of puberty or abdominal distension during pregnancy, the fibres tear, leaving an internal scar that becomes visible on the surface in the form of stretch marks.
Genetic predisposition also plays an important role: some people have a dermis that is structurally less resilient and are more prone to developing stretch marks, regardless of the extent of changes in body shape. Among other causes, certain endocrine disorders and drug treatments involving corticosteroids can weaken the connective tissue and contribute to their development.
Red stretch marks: the active phase
In the initial phase, stretch marks take on a pinkish-red, sometimes purplish colour. This colour indicates that the inflammatory process is still ongoing: the blood vessels in the injured area are active and the tissue is still undergoing reorganisation. Red stretch marks respond best to treatment: treating them at this stage yields better and faster results, as the tissue is still biologically active and more receptive to regenerative stimuli.
White stretch marks: the scarring phase
Over time, stretch marks progress to the scarring phase: their colour changes to a pearly white, and their texture becomes atrophic and slightly sunken compared to the surrounding skin. White stretch marks are more difficult to treat than red ones, but they are not permanent: the right treatments, chosen according to the characteristics of the tissue, can visibly improve their appearance, reducing the contrast with healthy skin and restoring an even skin tone.
Do stretch marks go away on their own?
Do stretch marks go away on their own? The answer is no: stretch marks are skin scars and, as such, do not fade on their own. They may fade and become less noticeable over time, but they will not disappear without specific treatment.
Oils, creams and natural remedies can improve the skin’s hydration and slightly reduce the appearance of the most superficial stretch marks, but they are unable to repair torn collagen fibres or stimulate genuine tissue regeneration. For those seeking visible and measurable results, there are professional stretch mark treatments that work deep down and stimulate the production of new collagen in the scarred area.
Stretch mark treatments: the technologies available at our centre
RFX non-ablative fractional laser
Non-ablative fractional laser is the gold standard treatment for stretch marks. It works by creating micro-columns of treatment in the dermis without removing the surface layer of the skin: the heat generated by the laser stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin in the treated area, gradually improving the skin’s texture, reducing the depth of stretch marks and minimising the colour contrast with the surrounding skin. As a non-ablative treatment, it is generally well tolerated, requires minimal recovery time, and can also be performed safely on darker skin phototypes. It is particularly effective for stretch marks on the breasts, abdomen and thighs, where the skin requires a gentle yet effective approach.
Morpheus 8 Burst
Morpheus 8 Burst works by combining microneedling and fractional radiofrequency, delivering thermal energy to the deep layers of the dermis via precision micro-needles. This dual mechanical and thermal action stimulates an intense regenerative response: the collagen fibres reorganise themselves, the tissue becomes firmer, the skin’s surface becomes more even and stretch marks gradually fade. It’s the ideal treatment for stretch marks for those who also have loose skin in the affected area, as it acts both on the scar and on the overall quality of the surrounding tissue. The results improve over time, session by session, with a cumulative effect that continues to build up in the weeks following each treatment.
Stretch marks: a comprehensive programme and a personalised approach
Removing stretch marks is never something that can be done in a single session. An effective treatment programme involves a thorough initial medical assessment to evaluate the stage of the stretch marks, the affected area, skin phototype and medical history, followed by a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific characteristics.
Maintenance is an integral part of the programme: white stretch marks, in particular, require consistency and a gradual approach over time to achieve significant improvements.
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Stretch marks on the face and body: areas that can be treated
Stretch marks can develop almost anywhere on the body, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, breasts, arms and calves, and, much more rarely, on the face. The treatments available at our centre are tailored to different parts of the body, with specific protocols for each area.
It is important to have realistic expectations: treatments for stretch marks do not completely eliminate the marks, but they do make them significantly less visible, improve the texture of the surrounding skin and restore a more even skin surface. The earlier treatment is started, the more satisfactory the results will be, particularly during the red phase, when the tissue is still in an active phase.
Why choose Studio Garavaglia?
Stretch marks are scars and, as such, require a thorough clinical assessment before deciding how to treat them. Each treatment plan is devised by Dr Garavaglia on the basis of an individual assessment: the type of stretch mark, the area affected, the patient’s skin phototype and medical history all influence the choice of technologies and the formulation of the treatment protocol. There are no one-size-fits-all treatments, but rather personalised programmes designed to deliver tangible results for each individual patient.
Book a consultation
Whether they are red or white, recent or long-standing, stretch marks warrant a professional assessment. The first step is a consultation with Dr Garavaglia: in a private setting and with no obligation, you will receive a thorough assessment and a bespoke treatment plan.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about stretch marks
Can stretch marks be completely removed?
Is it better to treat red stretch marks or to wait?
How many sessions are needed to improve stretch marks?
The number of sessions depends on the stage, depth and location of the stretch marks. A full course of treatment usually consists of 3 to 6 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Dr Garavaglia will draw up the best course of action during the initial consultation.