Stretch Marks
Fade and smooth stretch marks with RF microneedling, biostimulators, and resurfacing protocols. Realistic expectations: 50% to 70% improvement, not full erasure.
Causes and Treatment
Stretch marks form when the skin stretches faster than its collagen and elastin can keep up. The dermis tears slightly, leaving visible bands of scarred tissue. Common causes include rapid weight gain, pregnancy, growth spurts in adolescence, and bodybuilding.
Stretch marks come in two stages, and the stage matters for treatment:
- Striae rubrae (red or purple): fresh stretch marks, usually less than 1 year old. Most responsive to treatment because the skin is still actively healing.
- Striae albae (white or silver): mature stretch marks, usually over 1 year old. Less responsive but still treatable; results take more sessions and patience.
Better's approach uses RF microneedling and Moxi laser to stimulate collagen rebuilding within the stretch mark. Results take 6 to 12 months to fully reveal as collagen rebuilds.
Better Med Spa's Recommended Treatments
Better treats stretch marks with four primary tools, often combined.
RF Microneedling
RF energy at depth stimulates collagen rebuilding within stretch marks. The most-effective treatment for both red and white stretch marks. Series of 4 to 6 sessions.
Moxi Laser
Non-ablative resurfacing laser that smooths stretch mark surface and stimulates surface collagen. Pairs well with RF microneedling.
Microneedling
Standard microneedling without RF energy. Lower-cost option for early or mild stretch marks. Works through the same collagen-stimulation mechanism, just less powerful.
Personalized Chemical Peel
Custom-blended peel for stretch mark surface improvement. Useful as a series in between RF treatments or for very mild marks.
Treat fresh stretch marks fast. Red or purple stretch marks (less than 1 year old) respond significantly better to treatment than mature white stretch marks. If your marks are recent, start treatment now rather than waiting.
How to Choose Between Them
Match the treatment to your stretch mark stage.
| If you want | Choose |
|---|---|
| Fresh red or purple marks | Microneedling or RF Microneedling series |
| Mature white or silver marks | RF Microneedling intensive series |
| Both stages on different areas | RF Microneedling adjusted by area |
| Mild surface refinement | Microneedling + chemical peel |
| Comprehensive package | RF Microneedling + Moxi combo |
| Post-pregnancy stretch marks | RF Microneedling once cleared by OB |
The realistic outcome for stretch marks is 50% to 70% improvement, not full erasure. The longer the marks have been there, the harder full correction becomes. Better's consultation will tell you honestly what improvement to expect for your specific situation.
Plan a 6 to 12 month treatment arc. Results build over months as collagen rebuilds. Maintenance is typically 1 to 2 sessions per year.
What to Expect at Better Med Spa
Stretch mark consultations at Better start with an in-person assessment of stretch mark distribution, age (red vs white), and your skin tone. We grade and recommend a treatment series.
RF Microneedling on body areas takes 60 to 90 minutes with topical numbing. Expect 24 to 48 hours of redness and 5 to 7 days of mild flaking. Results visible at 4 to 6 weeks with continued improvement for 3 to 6 months.
Dr. Brechner supervises all body treatment protocols.
Ready to talk to one of our providers?
A 30-minute consultation evaluates your stretch marks and recommends a treatment series.
Before and After
See real Better Med Spa patient results in our gallery. Individual results vary based on starting point, dosage, and skin quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
Rarely. The realistic improvement is 50% to 70% fading and texture smoothing. Stretch marks that are very fresh (red or purple) respond better than mature white marks.
How many sessions will I need?
RF Microneedling: 4 to 6 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Microneedling: 5 to 8 sessions. Plan a 6 to 12 month treatment arc.
Is treatment safe during pregnancy?
No, we don't treat stretch marks during active pregnancy. Wait until you've stopped breastfeeding and gotten clearance from your OB before starting treatment.
Most patients describe the injections as a series of small pinches. We use the smallest needles available and can apply topical numbing cream on request. The whole appointment is typically under 30 minutes including the consultation.
Does the treatment hurt?
RF Microneedling with topical numbing is well-tolerated. Expect a deep tingling pressure rather than sharp pain. Larger body areas take longer than face treatments but each individual area is similar in sensation.
How much does stretch mark treatment cost in Chicago?
RF Microneedling on body areas starts at approximately $556 per session and may be higher for larger areas. Microneedling starts at approximately $342 per session. See our Specials.
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Where We Serve
Better Med Spa is located in Lincoln Park and serves patients across Chicago, including Old Town, Lakeview, Bucktown, Gold Coast, DePaul, West Loop, and River North.
Ready to fade stretch marks with the right treatment?
Schedule a consultation and we will build a plan that fits you, your timeline, and your budget.