Stretch Marks & Striae

FAQ

• Can stretch marks be fully removed?

  No. Stretch marks are dermal scars, and scarring cannot be fully reversed. In-clinic treatments are designed to improve the appearance of striae, not remove them. At Flourish we talk in terms of reducing colour intensity, softening texture and narrowing the look of the lines.

• Do newer red stretch marks respond better than older white ones?

  Yes. Striae rubrae (red or pink, newer) are still actively remodelling and generally show a better response than striae albae (silvery or white, mature). Mature white striae can still improve, but typically require more sessions for a more modest change in appearance.

• How many sessions will I need?

  Most in-dermal treatments for stretch marks are delivered as a course of four to six sessions, sometimes more. RF microneedling and skin needling are usually spaced four to six weeks apart; fractional resurfacing is spaced six to twelve weeks apart. Multiple sessions required.

• Which treatment is right for my stretch marks?

  It depends on the phase (red or white), the area (abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms, back), your skin tone and your downtime tolerance. Newer red striae often respond well to RF microneedling or skin needling. Mature white striae on larger body areas may suit fractional resurfacing or a combination plan. Suitability is assessed at your consultation.

• Are these treatments suitable for darker skin tones?

  RF microneedling and mechanical skin needling are often considered across Fitzpatrick I to VI because their energy does not target melanin the way many lasers do. Fractional resurfacing carries a higher post-inflammatory pigmentation risk in Fitzpatrick IV to VI skin, so settings are tailored conservatively or an alternative modality is recommended. Suitability is assessed at your consultation.

• Can I treat stretch marks during or soon after pregnancy?

  We do not treat during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Most clinicians prefer to wait until breastfeeding has ended and hormonal levels have stabilised before starting device-based treatment for post-pregnancy striae. Your clinician will advise on timing at consultation.

• What does downtime look like?

  For RF microneedling and skin needling on body areas, expect redness, warmth and pinpoint bleeding for 24 to 72 hours, with possible mild swelling for a few days. Fractional resurfacing downtime is longer and depends on setting, typically 2 to 7 days. A detailed aftercare plan is provided at each session.

• Will creams or oils work if I use them long enough?

  Topicals support barrier function and can help with the appearance of newer red striae over several months, but they cannot reorganise dermal collagen. If you have been consistent for six months and the marks have not visibly changed, you have reached the limit of what a topical can deliver