Stretch marks are one of the common skin problems that many men and women experience. Contrary to the public thoughts, pregnancy is only one reason for stretch marks. The other reasons are weight changes, fast growth, heavy exercises, hormone problems, using special drugs, and even genetics. Although stretch marks are not medically dangerous, they affect the skin appearance adversely. This weakens one’s self-confidence, especially when the marks appear on the visible parts of the body.
In the other contents, we extensively explained the microneedling technique. In microneedling for acne scars, we elaborate how the technique improves the skin quality. Also, we discussed the application of microneedling for dark spots and its efficiency. You could read the contents to get lots of information about microneedling Marietta. Over the past years, microneedling has been introduced as one of the best treatments for decreasing and improving stretch marks with minimum risk. Inducing the skin for collagen and elastin production, this technique makes the marks fainter, narrower, with a smoother skin. Now, in Amada, we present a full guide about microneedling for stretch marks to prepare you with all of the information needed.
What are Stretch Marks and Why Do They Occur?
Stretch marks are narrow, long, and usually uneven lines on the skin. Initially, they may seem red or purple, but gradually the color changes to white or silver. These marks form when the skin stretches faster than its elasticity capacity, tearing the collagen and elastin fibers.
The appearance
At the beginning of stretch mark formation, they are in red color. This shows the skin is inflamed. The redness is related to the widening of blood veins. After a while, these marks turn into white because the veins are shrunk. Therefore, collagen fibers are destructed completely. Microneedling for stretch marks affects both types; however, the healing process takes shorter time for red and fresh marks.
The reasons
There are a bunch of reasons for this phenomenon. Fast growth in puberty is one of them. Teenagers with fast height or weight growth usually experience skin stretches on their thighs and arms. Also, both sudden increase or decrease cause the support strings to tear apart because the skin does not have enough time to match. Pregnancy is the most common reason. In this period, the size of stomach and breasts increases, stretching the skin fast and severely. Professional bodybuilding causes these marks on the arms, shoulder, and back. In some cases, the reason is hormonal. Changes in hormone amounts like cortisol and estrogen could stretch the skin and make it thinner. Genetics may intensify the problem in those with family history.
Microneedling’s Role in Treating Stretch Marks
As we mentioned in other blogs, microneedling essentially uses very fine needles to create microscopic canals on the skin. This forces the skin to activate the repairing system. Then, collagen and elastin are produced to repair the damaged tissues. If you are curious how the process proceeds, read the content below.
How does microneedling treat the stretch marks?
Stretch mark formation happens because collagen and elastin are torn apart. Microneedling is one of the most efficient methods to induce collagen and elastin production, naturally. The skin of the cracks is usually thinner than other sites. Microneedling for stretch marks thickens the derma to cover the marks. In addition, skin cracks are uneven and dented. Cell reconstruction induction helps to smoothen the stretch mark sites. During the process, blood circulation and pigment configuration increase. By this, the appearance of the cracks gets more natural. After needling, because of wide pores, the skin absorbs more material up to 300 percent. Using serums like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides improves the results. Finally, in contrast to laser, microneedling is safer for different types of skin, even dark ones. Also, there is much lower risk of PIH by microneedling.
The step-by-step procedure of microneedling for stretch marks
As explained before, microneedling creates numerous microwounds in a controlled way on the skin. It activates the natural mechanism of skin repairing. Actually, the body is forced to create new collagens on the crack sites. This technique is important because the skin is unable to produce enough collagen and elastin without an external induction. In each treatment session, all of the crack site is converted from a dead, inactive tissue to an active, reconstructing area. This is why the appearance of the skin becomes softer, brighter, and fresher from one session to the next. In the following, we elaborate how microneedling treats the stretch marks.
The step of inflammation
This step happens in the first 24 to 48 hours. In this step, the body enters its defending phase. The cells identify the needle entrance as a small wound. Immediately, the blood circulation and oxygenation increase in the site. This situation brings the vital growth factors to the damaged point. These materials repair the skin and reconstruct the tissue. This phase usually happens with redness and a little swelling. However, this inflammation is the first message to the skin for healing. It prepares the basis for deep reconstruction.
The step of incubation
In this step of microneedling for stretch marks, from the second day until two weeks, the main healing process is started. Fibroblasts, as the most important cells for collagen production, start to produce the new strings of collagen and elastin. The damaged tissue of cracks gradually is substituted by the new, healthy tissue. The skin starts to be thickened and stiffened in the crack sites. Many people feel the first results in this step as the softness and changes in tissue. This is the most crucial part of the treatment because the main base of repair is formed now.
The step of repair
In this step, collagen type 3, which is produced in the previous step, is gradually converted to collagen type 1. This is the collagen that gives the highest robustness and best structure to the skin. White, old cracks that are usually stiff become larger and level with the adjacent skin surface. This is the longest step of the treatment that lasts several weeks to several months. Therefore, the microneedling results get better week by week. Many people observe significant changes after 8 to 12 weeks.
Microneedling Devices
There are different devices for microneedling treatment. Each device has its own advantages. Here, we review these devices and explain their application and efficiency.
Radio Frequency Microneedling
In this technique, in addition to creating the fine pores, the needles propagate radio frequency energy in the depth of the skin. This energy stiffens the skin, inducing collagen production at the maximum rate. RF is the best option for white and old marks because the ordinary devices are less efficient to treat these ones. Also, this technique is more proper for large areas like the stomach after pregnancy. The recovery period is shorter than traditional needling, and the result lasts longer.
Clinical Automatic Devices
These devices in microneedling for stretch marks have a very accurate, adjustable needle depth. Therefore, the doctor or specialist is able to choose the ideal depth of needle penetration based on the thickness of the skin. This is why the result by the automatic needling devices is smoother and safer than handy rollers. They have the best function for red, pink, or newer marks. Also, they are more controllable for those sites with thinner skin like the chest.
Home Devices
Home devices usually have very short needle depth (0.2 to 0.5 mm). They only could induce the epidermal layer. This depth is not enough to treat the skin marks because they are created in the dermis layer. Therefore, home devices are only effective in smoothening the superficial skin tissue or improving very slight stretch marks. They have no severe result for real, deep marks. In addition, improper usage of home microneedling for stretch marks may cause spots and inflammation.
The Best Skin Sites for Microneedling Treatment
We know that microneedling could be used for various parts of the body skin. Each part has its own thickness different from the others. Here, we introduce the skin sites that could be treated by this technique.
Stomach
The skin of the stomach, especially after pregnancy or weight changes, is more prone to white and deep stretch marks. Due to the thick skin of this site, microneedling results are more efficient. Many people observe smoother tissue after 3 to 5 sessions.
Thighs
In the puberty period, stretch marks usually emerge on the thighs. The skin in this site reacts properly to microneedling treatment because the blood circulation as well as the potential of natural repair is high. As holding the sessions, the white or pink marks become shallower, and the skin color gets more uniform.
Buttocks and Sides
The stretch marks on these sites are usually wide and white. Microneedling for stretch marks could increase the tissue thickness, decreasing the marks’ appearance significantly. RF needling shows even more noticeable results for marks on the buttocks.
Arms
Both weight gaining and losing cause stretch marks on the arms. Since the skin in this part of the body is thinner, the needle depth must be chosen more carefully. However, the result is usually acceptable and predictable.
Chest
The chest skin is thin. Thus, the microneedling treatment must be implemented with shallower depth and more care. The marks created after pregnancy in this site could be treated acceptably, although the complete healing needs more sessions.
How Many Sessions You’ll Need for Visible Results?
The number of sessions depends on the type, color, and age of marks and the skin type. New stretch marks usually answer faster to the treatment, while white and old marks need more sessions to be removed. Reaching a noticeable result takes 3 to 8 sessions. The gap between the sessions must be 4 to 6 weeks to give the skin enough time for producing new collagen. The major results for microneedling for stretch marks appear after the second or third session, getting improved in several months gradually.
Comparing Laser and Microneedling Treatments for Stretch Marks
Generally, both laser and microneedling treatments are applicable for removing stretch marks. However, there are small differences between these two techniques. Now, we detail the methods to inform you about each one’s advantages.
Microneedling
This technique is more appropriate for those who want to be treated with minimum risk and recovery period. It is safe and reliable for all of the skin types, even the dark ones. Pink, new, and even medium-size stretch marks usually answer properly to microneedling.
Laser
Fractional lasers are more effective in treating white and deep stretch marks. However, the risk of inflammation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation for dark skins is high. In severe marks or when fast results are expected, using laser is recommended.
Combination of Microneedling and Laser
In some clinics, both techniques are used. For example, one session of laser therapy and after a 4-week gap, one session of microneedling for stretch marks is scheduled. This hybrid technique is the best solution for intricate cases of marks.
Microneedling Aftercare
Like any other skin treatments, you should take care of your skin to reach the best results and minimize the side effects and risks. After the treatment, your skin severely needs hydration. Hyaluronic serum, repairing creams, and special ointments speed up the procedure of healing. The skin may become dried out or stretched that is completely natural. In the first 7 days, exposing to direct sunlight could cause dark spots. Everyday usage of sunscreen with SPF 50 is recommended. The skin is so sensitive during the recovery period and needs full protection. In the 5 days after the treatment, do not use retinol, acids, exfoliants, or strong vitamin C. They could cause inflammation, burning, and even dark spots. Additionally, heavy exercise or sweating may irritate the skin and slow down the repairing process. It is advised to relax the skin for the first 24 hours.
Removing Stretch Marks by Microneedling
Stretch marks are a kind of signs on the skin that make an unpleasant feeling of one’s body. If you are struggling with your stretch marks, do not hesitate to contact us. In Amada, we consult with you to choose the best solution for your skin problem. A team of professional doctors, experienced technicians, and committed specialists are ready to serve you at the best. Modern devices ensure a safe and reliable treatment. Give a gift to yourself by taking care of your skin.
Best Areas for Treating Stretch Marks with Microneedling
| Area of the Body | Why Microneedling Works Well Here | Typical Improvement | Special Notes |
| Abdomen (Stomach) | Skin is thick and responds strongly to collagen induction | Smoother texture, reduced width & depth | Ideal for postpartum stretch marks |
| Thighs | Good blood circulation helps faster healing | Lightening of color, softer appearance | Works well for growth-spurt stretch marks |
| Hips & Love Handles | Large surface area responds well to repeated treatments | More even skin tone, tighter skin | Often combined with RF microneedling |
| Buttocks | Skin thickens well with collagen remodeling | Noticeable improvement in white, old stretch marks | Results enhanced with radiofrequency |
| Arms | Mild to moderate stretch marks respond quickly | Reduced visibility, smoother lines | Depth must be adjusted carefully |
| Breasts/Chest Area | Skin is thinner and must be treated gently | Gradual softening and bright |
