Stretch Mark Reduction Treatments in London
Stretch marks (striae) are incredibly common. Whether from pregnancy, growth spurts, training, weight change or medical triggers, they can affect confidence—especially with swimwear or fitted clothing. At Skinhorizon Clinic we create personalised treatment plans that target colour, texture and skin quality using microneedling RF, fractional resurfacing approaches, regenerative exosome adjuncts, pigment/vascular targeting where suitable, LED/infrared comfort therapy and supportive skincare.
Introduction
Stretch marks (also called striae distensae) are lines that develop when the skin stretches beyond its elastic capacity and the deeper dermal support network remodels. They are not harmful, but the look and feel—colour change, ridging, tiny furrows—can be bothersome. Results improve when we match the treatment to the stage and colour of stretch marks, your skin type and the body site (abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, upper arms). We place a premium on safety and downtime, especially for darker skin tones at risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Our consultant-led plan starts with precise assessment and photography, followed by a step-wise protocol built around your goals and calendar. For newer striae rubrae (pink/red) we often target redness and encourage early collagen support; for mature striae albae (pale/white) we focus on texture, blending and skin quality. Wherever possible we combine in-clinic treatments with simple home routines and clear aftercare.
Ready for a plan that softens the look of stretch marks and respects your skin?
What is Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are linear dermal scars caused by rapid stretching and micro-tearing within the skin’s collagen-elastin network. They typically start as striae rubrae (pink, red, or violaceous) and fade to striae albae (pale, sometimes slightly depressed) over months to years. Common drivers include pregnancy, adolescent growth spurts, significant weight change, resistance training with fast hypertrophy, chronic steroid exposure (topical or systemic), endocrine conditions and certain medications.
Because stretch marks represent structural change in the dermis, there is no single “erase” treatment, but we can significantly improve appearance—softening edges, smoothing texture, addressing colour and supporting overall skin quality. Effective plans are multi-modal and stage-specific, and they consider your skin tone, sensitivity, lifestyle and downtime preferences. Learn more on our condition page: Stretch Marks (Striae).
It’s also important to distinguish stretch marks from other lines or scars—e.g., post-surgical scars, acne body scarring, steroid-induced skin thinning, or inflammatory rashes. Accurate diagnosis ensures the right techniques and safe energy settings.
Diagnosis & Assessment at Skinhorizon
- Consultant history: onset/tempo (pregnancy, growth, weight change, training), steroid medicines, endocrine history, skin sensitivity and tendency to pigment after inflammation.
- Examination: map stage (rubrae vs albae), colour, texture, depth and distribution (abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, arms).
- Photography & measurements: standardised lighting and angles; close-ups of a fixed index site for objective comparison across sessions.
- Skin tone safety: Fitzpatrick type considerations and test patches to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) risk.
- Differentials: distinguish from linear inflammatory dermatoses or true atrophic scars; adjust plan accordingly.
- Plan selection: session cadence aligned to your calendar and season (e.g., sun exposure, holidays, gym commitments).
Personalised Treatment Options We Offer
Microneedling RF (Collagen-Remodelling for Texture & Laxity)
Radiofrequency microneedling (MNRF) delivers controlled energy through insulated needles to create precise zones of dermal stimulation. For stretch marks it helps soften ridges, tighten laxity around the lines and improve overall skin quality. Treatment depth is adjusted by site (abdomen vs inner arm) and skin type, and we perform test passes in higher Fitzpatrick types. Sessions are typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart in short courses. Expect transient redness or pinpoint marks that fade quickly with advised aftercare.
- Excellent for texture and fine laxity around striae.
- Precision depth control minimises downtime.
- Often paired with regenerative adjuncts for additive benefit.
Fractional Resurfacing Approaches (Device-Agnostic)
Fractional resurfacing creates a grid of microscopic treatment zones to stimulate remodelling while leaving surrounding skin intact for quicker recovery. Depending on your assessment, we may recommend a non-ablative approach for gentle collagen stimulation or, in carefully selected cases, a deeper fractionated technique. We adjust energy, density and passes to your skin tone and body site, with strict aftercare to limit PIH. Fractional approaches are especially helpful for mature striae albae with textural change.
Note: The exact device and settings are chosen by your consultant after examination and (where appropriate) a small-area test.
Colour-Targeting Pathways (Redness & Blending)
Early striae rubrae often appear red or pink due to increased superficial vascularity. In suitable candidates, a vascular-targeting pathway can reduce visible redness to help lines blend faster, while concurrent collagen-supportive treatments address texture. For later pale marks, our focus shifts to blending strategies and skin-quality optimisation, with pigment-safe settings and rigorous sun care to avoid PIH.
Exosome Therapy (Regenerative Adjunct)
Exosomes are nano-vesicles rich in signalling molecules. We use them as an adjunct—often layered after microneedling—to support a healthier micro-environment during remodelling. Exosomes are not a standalone “erase” solution for striae, but patients often report softer feel and improved glow when used within a structured course. We track progress with standardised images.
LED / Infrared Photobiomodulation (Comfort & Recovery)
Medical-grade LED/IR can help calm post-treatment redness and support comfort during a course. Sessions are non-invasive, brief and repeatable, and often scheduled immediately after microneedling or fractional sessions. They’re not a substitute for remodelling treatments but can make the journey smoother—especially for sensitive skin or larger treatment fields.
Topical Plan (Evidence-Aware, Stage-Specific)
Home care supports your in-clinic results. Where appropriate we use retinoid-based routines to encourage collagen turnover (avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding), hyaluronic acid for hydration, and barrier-friendly emollients to reduce itch and tightness. We keep routines minimal and sustainable with clear instructions for frequency, layering and seasonal tweaks.
Body-Area Technique Coaching (Abdomen, Breasts, Hips, Thighs, Arms)
Technique matters. We’ll show you how to apply products evenly across curved areas, avoid friction on fresh treatment days, and set realistic clothing and gym timelines. For athletes, we build schedules around training cycles; for post-partum patients we prioritise comfort, safety and timing with feeding/sleep routines.
Your Care Journey
- Confirm & map: consultation, staging (rubrae vs albae), photography and index site for tracking.
- Plan & consent: choose a core modality (usually microneedling RF or fractional) ± exosome adjuncts and colour-targeting if indicated.
- Course delivery: sessions every 4–6 weeks with LED/IR comfort therapy as needed; written aftercare each time.
- Home routine: simple topical plan (retinoid when appropriate), strict sun care and friction management on treatment days.
- Review & refine: progress photos every 2–3 sessions; adjust depth/energy or cadence; plan maintenance if desired.
Expect gradual change across months. We look for softening of edges, smoother texture, less colour contrast and happier skin feel.
Special Situations
- Post-partum & breastfeeding: we avoid retinoids and certain devices until appropriate; comfort-first plans with gentle schedules.
- Adolescents: growth spurts drive new marks—timing and gentle strategies matter; we set realistic expectations for ongoing change.
- Fitzpatrick IV–VI: PIH risk is carefully managed with lower densities, conservative energy and diligent sun protection.
- Steroid-associated striae: treatment and expectations tailored; we coordinate with your prescriber where relevant.
- Weight-cycling & training: maintenance advice to reduce new marks; nutrition and pace of change discussed.
Aftercare & Maintenance
Keep the area clean and moisturised; avoid hot baths and vigorous friction for 48–72 hours after treatment. Apply SPF to exposed sites daily, even in winter. Delay high-sweat workouts for 24–48 hours (site dependent). Resume retinoids only when the skin is settled and not if pregnant/breastfeeding. For body areas that rub (waistbands, sports bras), use soft fabrics and avoid tight compression for a few days post-session.
Maintenance is optional and individual. Many patients like one “polish” session every 6–12 months once goals are reached, alongside ongoing good skincare and sun habits.
Safety & Risks
We choose the least-burdensome effective plan for your skin. Common, temporary effects include redness, mild swelling, pinpoint marks or dryness after in-clinic treatments; these settle with advised aftercare. In darker skin tones, PIH is a consideration—we mitigate with conservative settings, strict sun care and clear instructions. Retinoids can irritate if overused and are contraindicated in pregnancy. We avoid aggressive settings at the first visit, use test areas when helpful, and always provide a direct route to advice if you’re unsure post-treatment.
Expected Outcomes
Stretch marks mature over time; likewise, improvement is progressive. With a structured course, most patients see gentle softening of edges and texture within a few sessions, then continued blending over subsequent months. Early red marks (rubrae) often respond faster in colour; mature pale marks (albae) tend to need more focus on texture and blending. We define success as less contrast, smoother feel and greater confidence in everyday clothing and swimwear.
Patient Experience
“After two pregnancies I avoided the pool for years. The course at Skinhorizon softened the lines on my abdomen and hips—now I genuinely don’t think about them.”
— Verified Skinhorizon stretch marks patient
Why Choose Skinhorizon for Stretch Marks?
- Consultant-led: treatment is planned and performed/supervised by a consultant dermatologist with experience across skin types.
- Stage-specific care: rubrae vs albae pathways for colour and texture with realistic timelines.
- Precision modalities: microneedling RF, fractional resurfacing approaches, regenerative exosome adjuncts and LED/IR comfort therapy.
- Safety-first: Fitzpatrick-aware protocols, test patches where helpful, CQC-regulated processes and clear aftercare.
- Simple routines: home care that’s minimal, evidence-aware and easy to keep up, with seasonal tweaks.
Book Your Consultation
Get a personalised plan to soften stretch marks and feel confident in your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
How many sessions will I need?
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Can I treat stretch marks while pregnant or breastfeeding?
What about creams I can buy online?
This page was reviewed by Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist, last updated August 2025.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results vary, and all medical and aesthetic procedures carry risks and potential complications which will be fully discussed during your consultation. Suitability for treatment can only be determined following an in-person assessment with a qualified healthcare professional at Skinhorizon Clinic.
