Stretch marks (striae) can develop when your skin rapidly stretches, such as during pregnancy, weight changes, or muscle gain. In simple terms, they are small cracks in our skin’s support system. However, microneedling can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, thereby potentially reducing both the appearance and texture, as long as it is continued over time.

What results can you expect?

While microneedling cannot fully get rid of stretch marks, it can:

Make them smoother and the indentation less visible

Improve uneven texture

Faster fading of newer red/purple marks

Fade old white or silver marks away (usually slower)

Courses of treatment are required for most individuals. An average plan consists of 3–6 sessions, which are a few weeks to around a month apart. More commonly, you will notice relatively gradual changes rather than overnight differences. For Microneedling Exeter, visit https://www.helenhuntaesthetics.co.uk/skin-boosters/gentlo-radiofrequency-microneedling/

What is treatment like, and what is the downtime?

You will feel hot and scratchy. As with all proactive approaches, many clinics numb the area to alleviate any pain.

Afterwards, expect:

Redness (similar to a mild sunburn) lasting 24–48 hours

Slight swelling or sensitivity

Mild dryness or peeling in the days following.

Best areas to treat:

Microneedling is commonly used on:

Stomach (post-pregnancy)

Hips and thighs

Bum

Upper arms

Those places with thicker skin tended to do better. Extremely thin or sensitive areas may require a gentler approach.

A quick safety note

Do not use on damaged skin, infected sites, or during a flared-up eczema/psoriasis state. This should only be done after proper consultation to ensure the patient is a good candidate and sets up realistic expectations.