Stretch Marks Treatment: How RF Microneedling Improves Skin Texture

Stretch marks are common. Many women develop them after pregnancy, weight changes, or growth spurts. The marks themselves do not harm your health, but they can affect how you feel about your skin.

While creams and home treatments may help the surface, deeper skin texture needs clinical treatment. RF microneedling is a common in-clinic option for improving stretch mark texture and firmness.. It works by rebuilding collagen under the skin, which helps soften texture over time.

RF microneedling is one of the most effective Stretch Marks treatment and skin firmness. At Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic, our doctor-led team uses RF microneedling to stimulate collagen and support smoother, healthier skin.

Book a skin assessment today and find out if RF microneedling is right for your stretch marks.

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are not surface marks. They are dermal tears that happen when the middle layer of skin stretches too quickly. This damages collagen fibres and elastin fibres, which give skin its strength and bounce.

When the dermis layer tears, the skin tries to repair itself. But the new tissue does not look the same as the skin around it. This creates visible lines or streaks on the surface.

Creams work on the top layer of skin, called the epidermis. Stretch marks form deeper, in the dermis. That is why topical treatments alone rarely fix texture problems.

Texture matters more than colour. Many people notice that stretch marks feel rough, thin, or uneven. Improving how the skin feels is just as important as how it looks.

Types of stretch marks include:

• Striae rubra: red or purple stretch marks (newer)
• Striae alba: white or silver stretch marks (older)
• New stretch marks: still have blood flow, easier to treat
• Old stretch marks: less blood flow, take longer to improve

Also Read : https://skinduced.com.au/skin-firming-treatment-for-ageing/

What Causes Stretch Marks to Form?

Stretch marks happen when skin stretches faster than it can grow. Several factors increase your risk.

Common causes include:

• Pregnancy and post-pregnancy skin stretching, especially around the stomach and breasts
• Rapid weight gain or loss can affect thighs, hips, and arms
• Puberty and growth spurts are common in teens during fast growth phases
• Hormonal changes can weaken skin elasticity
• Genetics and skin elasticity, some people are more likely to develop them

Body areas most affected:

• Stomach
• Thighs
• Hips
• Breasts
• Upper arms
• Back

Can Stretch Marks Be Removed Completely?

Complete removal of stretch marks is rare. But visible improvement is possible with the right treatment. The goal is not to erase them overnight. The goal is to fade their appearance, smooth the texture, and blend them with the skin around them.

New stretch marks respond better to treatment. They still have blood vessels and active tissue remodelling. This makes them easier to improve.

Older white stretch marks take longer. But RF microneedling can still rebuild collagen and improve skin thickness over time.

Texture improvement matters more than colour. Many people feel better about their skin when it feels smoother and firmer, even if the marks are still visible. Professional treatments work better than home options. Devices used in clinics reach deeper skin layers and create controlled healing responses.

Best Professional Stretch Marks Treatment Options

These treatments target deeper skin layers where stretch marks form. They stimulate collagen production and help skin rebuild itself from the inside.

RF Microneedling

RF microneedling combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy. The needles create controlled micro-injuries in the dermis. The RF energy heats the tissue, which triggers collagen remodelling.

This combination works better than needles alone. The heat from RF energy reaches deeper layers and creates more collagen induction. Over time, this thickens the skin and smooths the texture.

Benefits of RF microneedling for stretch marks:

• Boosts collagen and elastin production
• Improves skin thickness and firmness
• Smooths rough or uneven texture
• Works on both old and new stretch marks
• Suitable for many skin types, including darker skin tones
• Less downtime compared to laser treatments

RF microneedling does not erase stretch marks overnight. What it does is rebuild collagen under the skin, which helps soften texture and improve how the skin feels and looks over time.

Not all stretch marks respond the same way to treatment. A professional skin assessment helps determine the depth, age, and best approach for improvement.
Speak with the team at Skinduced to understand whether RF microneedling suits your skin type and stretch marks.

 

Laser treatment for stretch marks​

Fractional laser treatment uses light energy to create tiny columns of heat in the skin. This triggers healing and collagen production.

Lasers work well for reducing the colour of red or purple stretch marks. They target blood vessels and help fade the appearance of striae rubra.

Points to consider:

• Better for colour changes than texture
• More downtime than RF microneedling
• Not ideal for all skin tones (risk of hyperpigmentation in darker skin)
• May need more sessions for visible results

Dermaroller / Traditional Microneedling

Traditional microneedling uses a dermaroller or pen with small needles. It stimulates collagen at the surface level.

This treatment can help with mild texture issues. But it does not reach as deep as RF microneedling. It also does not use heat to boost collagen remodelling.

Limitations:

• Surface-level collagen stimulation
• Less effective for deep stretch marks
• Requires more sessions for noticeable improvement

Stretch Marks Treatment Creams

Creams and serums can support skin health. But they cannot repair dermal tears or rebuild collagen in deeper layers.

Ingredients that may help early-stage stretch marks:

• Retinoids: encourage skin cell turnover
• Hyaluronic acid: hydrates and plumps skin
• Vitamin C: supports collagen production

Creams work best on new stretch marks. They may improve surface texture and hydration. But they cannot fix old, white stretch marks or deep texture problems.

If creams have not worked for you, RF microneedling offers a deeper solution.

Laser Treatment to Get Rid of Stretch Marks

Laser treatment uses focused light energy to target the deeper layers of skin where stretch marks form. The laser creates controlled heat in the dermis, which triggers collagen production and helps the skin repair itself. This treatment works best on red or purple stretch marks because the laser can target blood vessels and fade their appearance.

RF Microneedling vs Laser for Stretch Marks

Both treatments stimulate collagen. But they work in different ways.

RF Microneedling:

• Improves texture deeply
• Less downtime (usually 2–3 days)
• Safer for darker skin tones
• Long-term collagen building
• Works on texture and firmness

Laser Treatment:

• Targets colour better (especially red marks)
• Higher downtime (up to one week)
• Limited skin type suitability (not safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types)
• More focused on surface appearance

RF microneedling can be a good choice when texture is the main concern. Laser therapy may be helpful if colour is your main concern.

What Areas Can RF Microneedling Treat for Stretch Marks?

RF microneedling can be used on most body areas where stretch marks form.

Commonly treated areas include:

• Stomach stretch marks (especially post-pregnancy)
• Thighs and hips
• Breasts
• Upper arms
• Back
• Buttocks

A skin assessment helps determine which areas will respond best.

What Results Can You Expect?

RF microneedling creates a gradual improvement. Your skin needs time to rebuild collagen and remodel tissue.

Typical timeline:

• 2–3 weeks: Skin feels smoother and firmer
• 4–6 weeks: Texture starts blending with the surrounding skin
• 8–12 weeks: Visible improvement in stretch mark depth and texture
• Best results: After multiple sessions, usually over 3–6 months

Results depend on the age and depth of your stretch marks. New stretch marks improve faster. Old stretch marks take longer but still respond well.

Expectation note: RF microneedling improves texture and firmness. It does not make stretch marks disappear completely. The goal is smoother skin, not perfection.

If creams and home treatments have not improved your stretch marks, RF microneedling offers a deeper solution.
Book a stretch marks consultation at Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic and start a personalised RF microneedling plan.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most people need multiple sessions for the best results. The exact number depends on your skin and stretch marks.

General guide:

• Mild stretch marks: 3 sessions
• Moderate texture concerns: 4–6 sessions
• Maintenance treatments: Once yearly to support collagen production

Sessions are usually spaced 4–6 weeks apart. This gives your skin time to heal and rebuild collagen between treatments.

Is RF Microneedling Safe for Stretch Marks?

RF microneedling is safe when performed by trained professionals in a doctor-led clinic.

Safe for:

• Most skin tones (including olive and darker skin)
• Post-pregnancy skin (after healing and breastfeeding, if applicable)
• Old white stretch marks
• New red or purple stretch marks

Not suitable if you:

• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have active skin infections
• Have open wounds in the treatment area
• Are on certain medications (your clinician will assess this)

A professional skin assessment helps ensure RF microneedling is safe for your skin type and health.

Aftercare for Best Stretch Mark Results

Proper aftercare supports healing and improves your results.

First 48 hours:

• Avoid heat (hot showers, saunas, exercise)
• Do not apply makeup or active skincare products
• Keep the area clean and gentle

First week:

• Use SPF if the treated area is exposed to the sun
• Avoid retinoids, acids, or exfoliants
• Drink plenty of water to support skin hydration

Your clinician will provide specific aftercare instructions. Following them helps your skin heal properly and build collagen effectively.

Who Is the Best Candidate for RF Microneedling?

RF microneedling works well for people who want to improve stretch mark texture without surgery.

Best candidates include:

• Women with post-pregnancy stretch marks
• People with stretch marks from weight changes
• Those with white or faded stretch marks (striae alba)
• People are more concerned about texture than colour
• Anyone who has tried creams without success

RF microneedling is not a quick fix. It requires commitment to multiple sessions. But the results are gradual and natural-looking.

Why RF Microneedling Works Better Than Home Treatments

Home treatments like dermarollers and creams work on the surface. RF microneedling works deeper.

Key differences:

• Depth of treatment: RF microneedling reaches the dermis, where stretch marks form
• Collagen stimulation level: Heat from RF energy boosts fibroblast activity and tissue remodelling
• Professional control: Clinicians adjust needle depth and energy based on your skin
• Long-term results: Collagen continues building for months after treatment

Home treatments may support skin health. But they cannot create the same level of dermal healing as clinical RF microneedling.

Stretch marks are common, and effective treatment requires the right technology and experience.
At Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic in Cameron Park, our doctor-led team provides RF microneedling treatments designed for Australian skin. Book your consultation today to explore safe, professional stretch mark treatment.

Book a Professional Stretch Marks Treatment Consultation

Stretch marks are common and normal. Many people develop them during pregnancy, growth, or weight changes. They do not mean your skin is damaged or unhealthy.

Texture improvement is possible with the right treatment. RF microneedling stimulates collagen production and helps skin rebuild itself. Results are gradual, but they last.

If you want smoother, firmer skin and have tried home treatments without success, a professional consultation can help. Our doctor-led team at Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic uses RF microneedling to support long-term skin improvement.

Ready to improve the look and feel of your stretch marks?
Book a skin assessment at Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic and find out how RF microneedling can support smoother, firmer skin over time.

FAQs:

Is RF microneedling painful?
Most people feel mild discomfort during treatment. A numbing cream is applied before the session to reduce sensitivity. Many describe the feeling as light pressure or tingling.

Does it work on white stretch marks?
Yes. RF microneedling can improve the texture of old, white stretch marks (striae alba). It stimulates collagen production and thickens the skin over time. Results take longer than with new stretch marks, but improvement is possible.

How long do results last?
Results can last for years if you maintain your skin. Collagen production continues for months after treatment. Maintenance sessions once a year help support long-term texture improvement.

Can stretch marks come back?
Stretch marks that have improved will not come back. But new stretch marks can form if your skin stretches again (such as during pregnancy or rapid weight changes). RF microneedling does not prevent new stretch marks.

Is it safe for darker skin?
Yes. RF microneedling is safer for darker skin tones compared to laser treatments. It has a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A professional assessment ensures the treatment is tailored to your skin type.

Can I combine RF with laser?
In some cases, yes. Combining RF microneedling with laser therapy may improve both texture and colour. Your clinician will create a treatment plan based on your stretch marks and skin concerns.