Explore the best clinics for Laser Stretch Mark Removal near you – start by picking your city FAQ

Question 1

Does laser stretch mark removal work

Accepted Answer

Laser stretch mark removal can be effective for improving the appearance of stretch marks, though it cannot completely eliminate them or restore skin to its pre-stretch mark condition. The treatment works by stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing discolouration, making stretch marks less noticeable rather than removing them entirely. Clinical evidence shows that laser treatments can produce 25% to 75% improvement in stretch mark appearance, depending on various factors. The effectiveness varies significantly based on the age and colour of stretch marks, with newer red or purple stretch marks (striae rubrae) generally responding better than older white or silver stretch marks (striae albae); the type of laser used, with fractional lasers and pulsed dye lasers showing good results; the number of treatment sessions completed, typically requiring 3 to 6 or more sessions; individual skin type and healing capacity; and realistic expectations about improvement rather than complete removal. Laser treatment works best for reducing redness in newer stretch marks; improving texture and making stretch marks less raised or indented; reducing the contrast between stretch marks and surrounding skin; and stimulating collagen for gradual improvement over time. It is less effective for completely eliminating older white stretch marks; restoring skin to completely normal appearance; or working as a single quick-fix solution. Most people see noticeable improvement making stretch marks less obvious and bothersome, though they typically remain somewhat visible. The results are generally subtle to moderate rather than dramatic transformation. For appropriate candidates with realistic expectations, laser treatment can provide worthwhile improvement in stretch mark appearance.

Question 2

How much is Laser Stretch Mark Removal?

Accepted Answer

Prices vary between clinics and depend on several factors. In the UK, the cost of Laser Stretch Mark Removal typically ranges from around £155 to £850 and is influenced by the treatment area, the technology or laser device used, the number of sessions required, and the practitioner’s experience. If you’re looking up how much Laser Stretch Mark Removal costs or the price of Laser Stretch Mark Removal, remember that larger areas and more intensive programmes will increase the cost; personalised treatment plans also affect the cost of Laser Stretch Mark Removal overall. You can find the exact, up-to-date price for this treatment in the catalogue.

Question 3

How many laser sessions to remove stretch marks

Accepted Answer

Stretch mark laser treatment typically requires 3 to 6 sessions for noticeable improvement, though some people may need more sessions for optimal results, and it's important to understand that complete removal is usually not achievable. The exact number of sessions depends on several factors including the age and colour of your stretch marks, with newer red stretch marks often responding in fewer sessions (3-4) while older white stretch marks may require 6 or more; the severity and extent of stretch marks, with deeper, wider or more extensive marks requiring more treatments; the type of laser technology used, as some advanced systems may require fewer sessions; your skin's response to treatment and natural collagen production; your treatment goals and how much improvement you want to achieve; and the specific treatment protocol used by your practitioner. Sessions are typically spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart to allow proper healing and collagen remodelling between treatments. The improvement is gradual and cumulative, with each session building upon the previous one. After the initial treatment course, some people choose maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months to sustain improvements. It is crucial to understand that even with multiple sessions, stretch marks are typically improved rather than completely removed, with most people achieving 40% to 70% improvement rather than 100% elimination. Older white stretch marks are particularly resistant and may show more modest improvement even after extensive treatment. Your practitioner should provide realistic expectations about the number of sessions likely needed for your specific stretch marks and the degree of improvement possible. Be wary of any provider promising complete stretch mark removal in just 1 or 2 sessions, as this is unrealistic. Patience and commitment to the full treatment course are essential for achieving the best possible results.

Question 4

Can you get laser hair removal on stretch marks

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can generally have laser hair removal performed on areas with stretch marks, though there are some considerations and potential limitations. Laser hair removal targets the melanin pigment in hair follicles and is not specifically designed to interact with stretch mark tissue, so the presence of stretch marks should not prevent hair removal treatment in most cases. However, several factors need consideration: stretch marks may have different texture and sensitivity compared to surrounding skin, potentially requiring adjusted settings; older white stretch marks contain less pigment and may be more sensitive to laser energy; the skin over stretch marks may be slightly thinner or more delicate, requiring gentler treatment parameters; and some practitioners may be more conservative with laser settings in areas with stretch marks to avoid complications. Most experienced laser technicians can safely treat hair over stretch marked areas by carefully adjusting laser settings for the skin characteristics; testing a small area first to assess response; ensuring proper cooling and skin protection; and monitoring closely for any adverse reactions. The laser hair removal will not improve or worsen the appearance of stretch marks in most cases, as the wavelengths used for hair removal are different from those used for stretch mark treatment. However, there is a slight possibility that the inflammation from hair removal could temporarily make stretch marks more noticeable. If you want to address both unwanted hair and stretch marks, you would need separate treatments: laser hair removal for the hair using appropriate wavelengths, and fractional or vascular lasers specifically for the stretch marks. Some people choose to have stretch mark treatment before starting laser hair removal, while others address both concerns simultaneously or in sequence. Always disclose the presence of stretch marks during your consultation for laser hair removal so the practitioner can assess the area and adjust the treatment protocol appropriately.

Question 5

Does co2 laser remove stretch marks

Accepted Answer

CO2 laser treatment can improve the appearance of stretch marks but does not completely remove them. Fractional CO2 laser is one of the more effective laser types for treating stretch marks, particularly older white or silver stretch marks that are resistant to other treatments. The fractional CO2 laser works by creating thousands of microscopic columns of thermal injury in the skin, which stimulates the body's healing response, triggers significant collagen and elastin production, improves skin texture and thickness, reduces the depth and width of stretch marks, and helps blend stretch marks with surrounding skin over time. The treatment can provide several benefits for stretch marks including improved texture with smoother, less indented appearance; increased skin thickness in the stretch marked areas; better colour match with surrounding skin; reduced visibility and contrast of stretch marks; and gradual improvement over several months as collagen remodels. However, CO2 laser treatment for stretch marks has important limitations: it cannot completely eliminate or erase stretch marks; typically requires 3 to 5 sessions or more for optimal improvement; involves more significant downtime than some other laser types, with redness and peeling lasting 5 to 10 days; carries higher risk of side effects including hyperpigmentation, particularly in darker skin types; and results are subtle to moderate rather than dramatic transformation. CO2 laser is most effective for older, established white stretch marks that have not responded to other treatments; people with lighter skin types who can tolerate more aggressive treatment; those seeking significant texture improvement; and patients willing to accept the downtime and commitment required. The treatment is less suitable for newer red stretch marks, which may respond better to pulsed dye laser or gentler modalities; very dark skin types with high hyperpigmentation risk; people unable to commit to proper aftercare including strict sun avoidance; or those expecting complete stretch mark removal. Results develop gradually over 3 to 6 months after completing treatment as collagen continues to remodel. While CO2 laser is among the more powerful options for stretch mark improvement, realistic expectations are essential, as complete removal remains elusive even with this aggressive treatment.

Question 6

Does laser hair removal get rid of stretch marks

Accepted Answer

No, laser hair removal does not get rid of stretch marks or improve their appearance. Laser hair removal and laser stretch mark treatment are completely different procedures using different laser wavelengths, targeting different structures, and producing different results. Laser hair removal uses wavelengths (typically 755nm, 810nm or 1064nm) that specifically target melanin pigment in hair follicles to disable hair growth. These wavelengths and the treatment parameters are optimized for affecting hair follicles, not for skin rejuvenation or collagen stimulation. The treatment does not penetrate deeply enough or work in the right way to affect stretch mark tissue. Laser stretch mark treatment uses different wavelengths such as pulsed dye lasers for red stretch marks, fractional CO2 or erbium lasers for texture improvement, or intense pulsed light for various concerns. These treatments specifically target skin structure, collagen production and vascular components, not hair follicles. If you have both unwanted hair and stretch marks in the same area, you would need separate, specific treatments: laser hair removal sessions to permanently reduce unwanted hair, and laser stretch mark treatment sessions to improve the appearance of stretch marks. Some people have both treatments, either simultaneously or in sequence, depending on their practitioner's recommendations. Having laser hair removal will not make your stretch marks better or worse - they are independent concerns requiring independent solutions. If your primary concern is stretch marks, do not expect laser hair removal to address this. Similarly, if you are having laser stretch mark treatment, you will still need separate sessions for hair removal if unwanted hair is also a concern. Always be clear about your treatment goals during consultation so your practitioner can recommend the appropriate laser treatments for your specific needs.

Question 7

Does laser stretch mark removal hurt

Accepted Answer

Laser stretch mark removal causes varying levels of discomfort depending on the type of laser used, the treatment area, settings and individual pain tolerance, but most people find it tolerable rather than unbearably painful. The sensation varies with different laser types: fractional lasers cause heat, stinging or pricking sensations as the laser creates microscopic columns in the skin, often described as similar to small rubber band snaps; pulsed dye laser creates brief snapping or stinging feelings with each pulse; ablative lasers like CO2 can be more uncomfortable, with burning or intense heat sensations; and the pain is typically rated 4 to 7 out of 10, varying by individual tolerance and specific treatment. Most practitioners use measures to minimize discomfort including topical numbing cream applied 30 to 60 minutes before treatment; cooling devices built into laser systems that cool the skin before, during and after each pulse; adjusting laser settings for patient comfort while maintaining effectiveness; and working in sections with breaks if needed. Factors affecting comfort levels include the treatment area, with more sensitive areas like breasts or inner thighs potentially being more uncomfortable; the extent of area being treated, with larger treatment areas requiring more time and endurance; your individual pain tolerance and anxiety levels; and the specific device and settings used. After treatment, the treated area typically feels sensitive, warm or sunburned for several hours to a few days; may be tender to touch; and can experience mild throbbing or discomfort that usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Most people manage post-treatment discomfort with cool compresses, gentle moisturizers and over-the-counter pain relief if needed. While laser stretch mark treatment is not pain-free, most people find it quite tolerable, especially with proper numbing and cooling measures. The discomfort is brief and confined to the treatment session itself, with manageable post-treatment sensitivity. If you are particularly concerned about pain, discuss this with your practitioner beforehand so they can use maximum numbing and comfort measures. Many people find the temporary discomfort worthwhile for the improvement in their stretch marks.

Question 8

How many laser treatments to remove stretch marks

Accepted Answer

Laser treatment for stretch marks typically requires a minimum of 3 to 6 sessions, though many people need 6 to 10 sessions or more for optimal improvement, and it is crucial to understand that complete removal is rarely achievable. The number of treatments needed depends on several key factors including the type of stretch marks you have, with newer red stretch marks typically requiring 3 to 5 sessions while older white stretch marks may need 6 to 10 or more sessions for noticeable improvement; the severity and depth of stretch marks, with deeper, wider marks requiring more treatments; the extent of the affected area, with larger areas or multiple body regions requiring more comprehensive treatment; the specific laser technology used, as some advanced systems may produce results with fewer sessions; and your individual skin response and collagen production capacity. Treatment sessions are typically spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart to allow proper healing, collagen remodelling and progressive improvement between sessions. Results are cumulative, with each session building upon the previous improvements. Most practitioners recommend committing to at least the initial recommended series before judging effectiveness, as stretch mark improvement is gradual and progressive. After the initial treatment course, maintenance sessions may be recommended every 6 to 12 months to sustain improvements and continue gradual enhancement. It is essential to have realistic expectations: laser treatment improves stretch marks by making them less noticeable, reducing texture differences, and blending them better with surrounding skin; but it does not completely eliminate stretch marks or restore skin to its original state. Most people achieve 40% to 70% improvement with a full treatment course rather than complete removal. Older white stretch marks are particularly resistant and may show only 30% to 50% improvement even after extensive treatment. Your practitioner should assess your specific stretch marks during consultation and provide a realistic estimate of the number of sessions likely needed and the degree of improvement possible. Be wary of providers promising complete stretch mark removal in just 1 or 2 sessions, as this is not realistic. Successful stretch mark treatment requires patience, commitment to the full treatment protocol, and acceptance that significant improvement rather than perfect removal is the realistic goal.

Question 9

Laser Stretch Mark Removal before and after

Accepted Answer

Before laser stretch mark treatment, people typically have visible stretch marks appearing as linear streaks or stripes on areas like the abdomen, breasts, thighs, hips, buttocks or arms. Newer stretch marks (striae rubrae) appear red, pink or purple, often raised and inflamed, while older stretch marks (striae albae) appear white, silver or skin-coloured, typically indented or depressed compared to surrounding skin. Common concerns include self-consciousness about the appearance of stretch marks, particularly in areas exposed during swimming or intimate situations; the texture difference between stretch marks and normal skin; significant contrast in colour between stretch marks and surrounding skin; feeling that stretch marks make the body look less attractive or aged; and frustration that topical treatments have not improved them. After laser stretch mark treatment, following completion of a recommended treatment course (typically 3 to 6 sessions or more) and allowing time for collagen remodelling to develop fully (usually assessed 3 to 6 months after the final session), most people experience noticeable improvement though rarely complete elimination. Common results include red stretch marks becoming much lighter or fading to match surrounding skin; white stretch marks blending better with normal skin through improved pigmentation; texture becoming smoother with less depression or indentation; overall visibility and contrast of stretch marks reduced significantly; skin appearing more even-toned and less obviously marked; and improved confidence about the treated areas. The degree of improvement varies considerably depending on the starting severity, with mild stretch marks often achieving 60% to 80% improvement while severe marks may show 30% to 50% improvement; the age of stretch marks, with newer red marks generally responding better than older white marks; the number of treatment sessions completed; the specific laser technology used; individual healing capacity and collagen production; and realistic expectations about improvement versus removal. Some people achieve quite significant fading and smoothing, while others experience more modest but still worthwhile changes. During the treatment process, there are several stages: immediately after each session, treated areas are red, swollen and possibly showing grid patterns from fractional lasers; within days to weeks, treated skin may peel or flake as healing occurs; gradual improvement becomes noticeable after 2 to 3 sessions as collagen builds; optimal results develop 3 to 6 months after completing the full series as collagen remodelling continues. It is crucial to understand that even with optimal treatment, stretch marks are improved rather than erased, typically remaining somewhat visible though much less noticeable than before. Complete restoration to unmarked skin is not achievable with current laser technology. Stretch marks may still be visible in certain lighting or when skin is stretched, though they should be significantly less obvious in most situations. Your practitioner should provide realistic before and after photos from their own patients showing typical results after complete treatment courses, across different stretch mark types and severity levels. These photos should show improvements at various stages including shortly after treatment and at final assessment months later. Most people with appropriate expectations are satisfied with the improvements achieved, finding that while stretch marks are not gone, they are substantially less noticeable and bothersome. The treatment can provide meaningful cosmetic benefit for people self-conscious about their stretch marks, though patience with the gradual process and acceptance of realistic outcomes are essential for satisfaction. Stretch mark laser treatment should be viewed as a method to significantly improve appearance rather than a way to completely remove stretch marks.

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