Stretch Mark Treatment

Stretch marks, or striae, are a type of scarring that appears when the skin stretches or shrinks too quickly. Although they are harmless, stretch marks can be a cosmetic concern for many people. At our NYC practice, Dr. Jane Yoo offers personalized treatments to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and improve overall skin texture.

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks form when rapid changes in skin tension cause the collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis to tear. As the skin heals, these tears appear as narrow, indented streaks that can vary in color depending on your skin tone and how recently they developed.

Common causes include:

  • Puberty and growth spurts
  • Pregnancy
  • Rapid weight gain or loss
  • Bodybuilding and muscle growth
  • Long-term use of topical corticosteroids
  • Medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome or Marfan syndrome

Stretch marks often appear on the abdomen, hips, thighs, breasts, arms, and lower back. Early marks may feel itchy or raised, but over time they tend to flatten and fade.

What do stretch marks look like?

The appearance of stretch marks can vary by skin type and age of the mark:

  • Fresh stretch marks (striae rubrae) may be red, pink, purple, or dark brown
  • Older marks (striae albae) fade to white or silver and often feel slightly depressed

They may be linear, wavy, or wide and can range in size from small streaks to larger bands that span broad areas of the skin.

Are stretch marks permanent?

Stretch marks are technically a form of scar tissue, so they do not disappear completely. However, with the right treatment, their appearance can be significantly improved.

How are stretch marks treated?

Dr. Yoo offers several in-office treatments that have shown benefit in reducing the appearance of stretch marks. The best approach depends on the age, location, and depth of the marks, as well as your skin tone.

Treatment options include:

  • Laser therapy: Fractional lasers can stimulate collagen remodeling and fade discoloration, especially in newer marks.
  • Microneedling: Controlled micro-injuries trigger collagen production and help improve texture over a series of sessions.
  • Radiofrequency (RF): RF energy can enhance skin firmness and tone, especially when combined with microneedling.
  • Ultrasound-based therapy: Non-invasive devices use ultrasound energy to improve skin elasticity.
  • Chemical peels: Light to medium peels can help smooth the skin surface and even pigmentation.

Who is more likely to get stretch marks?

While anyone can develop stretch marks, certain factors increase risk:

  • Family history of stretch marks
  • Pregnancy, especially at a young age
  • Rapid physical growth during adolescence
  • Use of corticosteroid creams or medications
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Genetic conditions like Cushing’s syndrome

Can stretch marks be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent stretch marks, but you can lower your risk by:

  • Maintaining a stable weight
  • Moisturizing regularly to support skin elasticity
  • Avoiding unnecessary use of corticosteroids
  • Starting early treatment if you notice new stretch marks forming

Some evidence suggests that products containing hyaluronic acid or centella asiatica may help prevent or minimize early marks, but results vary.

Safe for all skin types

Stretch mark treatments are selected with your skin tone and sensitivity in mind. Dr. Yoo has experience treating Asian skin and other skin of color, with careful attention to avoiding pigmentation issues and maximizing results.