Can Lasers Get Rid of Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks — almost everyone has them, but no one wants them. Whether they showed up during pregnancy, after a growth spurt, or from weight changes, these lines on your skin can be a frustrating reminder of your body’s changes.

But you don’t have to live with them forever.

Laser treatments have become one of the most popular, effective ways to fade stretch marks and boost your confidence. Kathleen J. Smith, MD, and our team at Dermatology Specialists of Atlanta show you how in our latest blog. 

Let’s talk about stretch marks

Stretch marks (also called striae) are actually a type of scar. They form on your skin when it stretches or shrinks too quickly, causing the collagen and elastin in your skin to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks appear as red, purple, or white streaks (depending on their age and your skin tone).

They often show up on the:

• Abdomen
• Thighs
• Hips
• Breasts
• Lower back

While they’re completely harmless, stretch marks can be a cosmetic concern for many people.

Can lasers really help?

The short answer is yes. Laser treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks. 

While they may not erase them entirely, lasers can make them far less noticeable by stimulating your skin’s natural healing process. They target the affected skin and encourage new collagen and elastin to form, improving skin texture, tone, and elasticity.

A closer look at our lasers

Not all lasers are the same, and the type of treatment we recommend for you will depend on the age and color of your stretch marks and your skin type.

Fractional laser therapy

This is one of the most effective options for reducing stretch marks. It works by sending tiny beams of light into your skin, creating micro-injuries that trigger your body’s natural healing response. New collagen is produced, and your skin becomes smoother over time. It’s especially helpful for older, white, or silver-colored stretch marks.

Pulsed dye laser (PDL)

A pulsed dye laser might be the way to go if your stretch marks are still red or purple (meaning they’re relatively new). This laser targets blood vessels in your skin, reducing redness and inflammation while promoting healing and collagen production.

Excimer laser

This type of laser stimulates melanin production in the stretch marks, helping them blend more evenly with your natural skin tone. It’s often used for hypopigmented (lighter) stretch marks.

Intense pulsed light (IPL)

While IPL isn’t technically a laser, it works similarly by using broad-spectrum light to target problem areas. The result? Smoother, more even-toned skin.

IPL sends multiple wavelengths of light deep into your skin. These pulses of light are absorbed by pigmented or damaged tissue, which stimulates collagen production and skin cell turnover. Over time, this helps fade the color of stretch marks, smooth out their texture, and even out your overall skin tone.

Before and after treatment

Laser stretch mark removal is noninvasive and usually well-tolerated. We treat you in our office, and the sessions don't take long (around 30-60 minutes), depending on the area being treated.

You might feel a bit of warmth or a tingling sensation during the procedure. Some compare it to the snap of a rubber band. Afterward, your skin might be red or slightly swollen, like a mild sunburn, but this typically fades within a few days.

Most people need multiple sessions (usually 3-6 spaced out over several weeks) to see noticeable improvement.

Laser treatments are generally safe for most skin types, but they work best when performed by a trained dermatologist or laser specialist like Dr. Smith.

We assess your skin and stretch marks during your consultation to determine the best approach.

Following aftercare instructions closely is important to avoid side effects like temporary discoloration, blistering, or irritation. Always wear sunscreen on treated areas to protect your skin while it heals.

Life after laser stretch mark removal

While laser treatments won’t make stretch marks disappear 100%, they can dramatically improve their appearance. Skin becomes smoother, stretch marks fade, and their texture blends better with surrounding skin. 

Stretch marks are completely normal, but laser treatment could be the perfect option if you’re ready to reduce their appearance. At our clinic, we walk you through your options and customize a plan that fits your skin and goals.

Want to learn more or schedule a consultation? Call or click to book an appointment with the team at our Decatur, Georgia, office today.