Stretch Marks Treatment: How It Works, When to Treat, and What Are the Best Results

Stretch marks treatment is among the most sought-after procedures in dermatology clinics. They usually appear when the skin undergoes rapid stretching, causing the elastic fibers to break and leaving marks that can range from red to white. The good news is that the earlier treatment begins, the better the results — especially when stretch marks are still reddish.

Studies indicate that up to 80–90% of people develop stretch marks at some point in their lives, especially during periods of rapid body changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or significant weight fluctuations. Research also shows that early treatment can improve the appearance of stretch marks by 50–70%, depending on the technique used and the stage of the marks, with newer (red or purple) stretch marks responding better than older (white) ones. These statistics highlight the importance of timely and appropriate stretch marks treatment to achieve the best possible results.

In this article, you will understand why stretch marks appear, which treatments are most effective, how peeling and laser treatments work, and what to expect at each stage of skin recovery. Keep reading to discover which option is best for your case!

What are stretch marks and why do they appear?

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches too quickly, causing the elastic fibers to rupture. This process is similar to an overstretched elastic band snapping.

Main causes of stretch marks

• Rapid growth during adolescence
• Pregnancy
• Sudden weight gain
• Starting intense physical activity with a rapid increase in muscle mass

When these fibers break, lines form that can be red (newer) or white (older).

Red stretch marks vs. white stretch marks: what’s the difference?

This is one of the most common questions, and there are important differences between the two types:

• Red stretch marks: have a greater potential for recovery. Early treatment can often lead to almost complete skin regeneration.
• White stretch marks: also improve significantly, although results tend to be more moderate.

Main types of stretch marks treatment

There are several effective stretch mark treatments, including chemical peels, CO₂ laser, and complementary at-home care.

Stretch marks treatment with chemical peeling

Peels are highly recommended, especially retinoic acid, which is known for stimulating skin rejuvenation and accelerating cell renewal.

How does chemical peeling work?

• The product is applied to the skin and has a slightly brownish color.
• It does not cause burning or stinging.
• The patient goes home with the product on the skin.
• It is essential to avoid sweating, as this can cause the product to run.
• The action time ranges from 5 to 8 hours.

During this period, the acid penetrates deeply into the skin, acting directly on the cells and stimulating fiber reorganization.

How many sessions are needed?

The average recommendation is 10 sessions, with 15-day intervals between them. This consistency maintains continuous stimulation of cell renewal.

Depoimentos

Temos as melhores avaliações no Google

V.T.

A eficácia do tratamento com o Laser CO2 me surpreendeu muito positivamente e os resultados me deixaram bastante satisfeito. Para quem se incomoda com marcas de estrias, recomendo muito!

D.P.

Um excelente tratamento para estrias, com muitos cuidados e um resultado muito eficaz. Realizei duas sessões e tinham muitas estrias, depois dessas duas sessões elas estão quase imperceptíveis. Já realizei diversos tratamentos e nenhum foi tão eficaz quanto este, vale muito a pena o procedimento.

C.B.

Recomendo imensamente a clínica de pele com o Dr. Guilherme Szerman, desde a avaliação, passando pelos tratamentos, os protocolos até a atenção com o pós. Profissional excelente, detalhista, trabalho técnico especialista e, acima de tudo, sincero quanto aos resultados possíveis.

Depoimentos

Temos as melhores avaliações no Google

V.T.

A eficácia do tratamento com o Laser CO2 me surpreendeu muito positivamente e os resultados me deixaram bastante satisfeito. Para quem se incomoda com marcas de estrias, recomendo muito!

D.P.

Um excelente tratamento para estrias, com muitos cuidados e um resultado muito eficaz. Realizei duas sessões e tinham muitas estrias, depois dessas duas sessões elas estão quase imperceptíveis. Já realizei diversos tratamentos e nenhum foi tão eficaz quanto este, vale muito a pena o procedimento.

C.B.

Recomendo imensamente a clínica de pele com o Dr. Guilherme Szerman, desde a avaliação, passando pelos tratamentos, os protocolos até a atenção com o pós. Profissional excelente, detalhista, trabalho técnico especialista e, acima de tudo, sincero quanto aos resultados possíveis.

L.F.

Ótimo atendimento, médicos qualificados e preocupados com a saúde do paciente.

H.T.

Procurei a clínica da pele para tratar de cicatrizes no corpo e cicatrizei a alma, procurei os melhores especialistas e sai com uma família que levarei para sempre. A esses maravilhosos profissionais todo o meu carinho, admiração e respeito e por serem antes de tudo seres humanos extraordinários.

A.J.

As estrias sempre me incomodaram e há muito tempo estava buscando um tratamento sério e com resultados significativos. Valeu muito a pena a minha pesquisa. Conheci a clínica pela internet e adorei o site. Me foi recomendado um pacote de laser de co2. Já pude ver os resultados na 1 sessão. Sempre sonhei em tratar as minhas estrias e hoje agradeço a clínica pelo resultado obtido. Parabéns e viva o laser.

Stretch mark treatment with CO₂ laser

Fractional and pulsed CO₂ laser is one of the most effective treatments for stretch marks, as it directly stimulates collagen production — essential for restoring firmness and smoothing the marks.

How does the laser work on the skin?

The device emits controlled heat, which:

• strongly stimulates collagen production,
• improves skin texture,
• reduces the color of stretch marks,
• promotes progressive regeneration over the months.

Right after the session, it is normal for the skin to appear swollen and pinkish, indicating that the repair process has already begun.

When do results appear?

• Collagen production starts immediately after the session.
• The peak occurs around 45 days.
• Improvement continues for up to 6 months, and in some cases up to 1 year.

Many patients notice improvement within the first month after the first session.

How many sessions are recommended?

The average recommendation is 5 sessions, with intervals between 30 and 60 days, according to professional evaluation.

Laser recovery

• Sun exposure should be avoided.
• The skin usually recovers fully within 15 to 20 days.
• Daily activities can be resumed normally.

What results can you expect?

Although treatment delivers noticeable results, it is important to have realistic expectations:

• The skin becomes much more even.
• Texture visibly improves.
• Stretch mark color softens.
• In some cases, the marks nearly disappear.

However, no treatment guarantees 100% elimination of stretch marks. The goal is to achieve the best possible appearance of the area — and in this regard, results are usually very satisfying.

Choosing a specialized professional is essential to:

• correctly adjust laser settings,
• select appropriate products,
• ensure treatment safety and effectiveness.

Conclusion

Stretch marks can affect self-esteem, but fortunately there are effective treatments — especially when started early. Both chemical peels and CO₂ laser offer excellent results, improving skin texture, color, and overall appearance.

If you have stretch marks and want to restore your confidence, seek a specialized evaluation. Each case is unique, and a qualified professional can recommend the best protocol for your skin type and needs.

Contact:

Clínica de Pele has specialized in dermatological treatments in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969. Dr. Szerman has more than 20 years of experience and also teaches other physicians.