Microneedling For Stretch Marks: Does It Make A Difference?

Do you have stretch marks on your stomach or thighs? Microneedling for stretch marks is an emerging cosmetic treatment that does wonders for many people like you. 

Whether on the stomach, thighs, hips, or breasts—whenever you see your stretch marks, you may wish them to disappear forever. 

Here comes microneedling—a rejuvenation treatment that’s been catching on for fading scars, wrinkles, and, yes, stretch marks. But does it actually work? And how many sessions will you need? Let’s get down to the details. 

Why are your Stretch Marks so Difficult to Fade?

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches too rapidly, which tears the collagen and elastin fibres. This may occur because of

• Pregnancy
• Quick weight gain or loss
• Puberty growth spurts
• Muscle development from strenuous exercise
• Changes in hormones

Because of inflammation, stretch marks initially appear red, purple, or dark brown. However, as the skin heals, they eventually turn to silvery-white lines. In contrast to normal scars, stretch marks involve the inner layer of the skin and are, therefore, difficult to treat with creams or topical treatments.

Does Microneedling on Stretch Marks Fade Them Away?

So, how to get rid of stretch marks permanently? You may try microneedling—-It utilises tiny needles to make micro-injuries on the skin. These induced injuries signal your body to kickstart the body’s healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin synthesis—leading to smoother, healthier, even, and fine-textured skin.

While you may feel uncomfortable after knowing of the needles, with each puncture, your skin acts towards getting better and fading the stretch marks away. 

How Does Microneedling for Stretch Marks Work?

Microneedling helps disappear stretch marks on your thighs, abdomen, hips, or breasts in these three phases:

• Inflammation Phase: When your skin gets micro-injuries, it responds by stimulating blood flow—this is the start of your skin’s natural healing process.
• Proliferation Phase: New skin cells begin to develop, and collagen re-establishes the broken tissue.
• Remodelling Phase: After a few days, the skin becomes thicker, tighter, and more even, and stretch marks fade into the surrounding skin.

Because microneedling promotes the body’s natural ability to repair and regenerate skin, it’s an attractive option compared to more aggressive procedures.

How the Stretch Marks Microneedling is Done?

The practitioner prepares the treatment area by cleaning it and then applies a numbing cream to make the procedure comfortable for you. After the cream numbs your skin, the practitioner gives micro-injuries to your skin with a Morpheus8 tool.

So, how deep do the microneedles go into your skin to treat stretch marks? You may need deeper needle penetration to remove stretch marks since they are present in the dermal layer of your skin. However, the needle depth varies accordingly. Such as:

• 1.5mm for newer stretch marks.
• 2.0mm for moderate stretch marks.
• 2.5mm for older stretch marks.

The derma rollers that are for at-home use generally range from 0.5mm to 1.0mm and may smooth the texture of your skin but won’t achieve spectacular results compared to professional microneedling.

Is Removing Stretch Marks with Microneedling Right for You?

Microneedling is suitable for most skin types and tones. You’re a good candidate if you:

• Have stretch marks due to rapid weight gain or hormonal changes.
• Wish to enhance your skin texture and elasticity.
• Are looking for a non-surgical procedure.

But you might need to steer clear of microneedling if you:

• Have acne, infections, or eczema in the treatment area.
• Are on blood-thinning medications.
• Have keloid scarring in the past.

Is the Treatment Painful?

Most people describe microneedling for stretch marks as mildly uncomfortable but tolerable. Before the procedure, a numbing cream is applied to minimise pain. Some may feel slight pressure, tingling, or a pricking sensation, but it’s rarely unbearable.

After the session, you may feel mild redness and swelling—similar to a sunburn—which typically fades within a few days.

How many Sessions of Microneedling to Remove Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks take time, so you have to be patient. Most individuals require 3 to 6 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart, for noticeable improvement. Deeper, older marks may need more sessions.

And, how long do the results of microneedling for stretch marks last?

Results last for a long time, particularly with proper skincare maintenance. However, if you experience another pregnancy, weight change, or growth spurt, new stretch marks can develop. Some individuals prefer yearly maintenance sessions to maintain their skin’s smoothness.

How Much Does Microneedling Stretch Marks Cost?

The cost of a microneedling session varies. It depends on where the clinic is located and how many sessions you need for optimal results. 

You may ask your preferred clinic if they provide any discounted or packaged deals for your stretch marks microneedling treatment. 

What to Expect After a Microneedling Session?

Your skin might appear red, a little puffy, and tight for a couple of days after the stretch marks microneedling session. It is normal and part of the healing process.

Here are some post-treatment care tips:

• Stay away from the sun for at least a week.
• Moisturise the skin with a mild, fragrance-free lotion.
• Steer clear of harsh skincare products (retinol, exfoliants) for 48 hours.
• Apply a high-SPF sunscreen when out.

You may begin to notice visible changes in 3-4 weeks, with complete results over a few months as collagen remakes the skin.

Stretch Marks Microneedling vs. At-Home Derma Rollers: What’s Better?

Derma rollers at home are a popular way to remove stretch marks with microneedling. However, this is not as effective as professional treatment given by an expert.

At-home derma rollers can improve skin texture, but they don’t go deep enough to treat stretch marks effectively. Professional microneedling uses longer needles (1.5mm–2.5mm) to boost collagen and repair skin, while at-home rollers (up to 1.0mm) only work on the surface.

Another key difference is safety. In-office microneedling treatments are done in a sterile setting with numbing cream, while DIY rolling carries a risk of infection.

For real results, professional microneedling is the better choice. At-home rollers may help with skin maintenance but won’t significantly fade stretch marks.

Final Thoughts

Microneedling is a very effective, non-surgical treatment for stretch marks. The boosted collagen and elastin production reduces the appearance of stretch marks over time.

If you’re looking for a minimally invasive, long-lasting solution, microneedling might be the right choice for you. However, you need to be patient to see the results—it may take 3-6 sessions—but, the results would be worth it!

Ready to remove those stretch marks and start your journey to clearer skin? Book a consultation with a microneedling specialist today!

FAQs

1. What is negative about microneedling?

The side effects of microneedling include redness, bruising, peeling, and itching. All these after effects subside within a week. In rare cases, there’s a risk of infection or hyperpigmentation if not done correctly.

2. How do celebrities get rid of stretch marks?

Many celebrities use radiofrequency (RF) treatments, which heat the skin’s deeper layers to boost collagen and elastin. This tightens the skin and makes stretch marks less visible.

3. Does microneedling permanently remove stretch marks?

For some, microneedling results are long-lasting, but others may need maintenance sessions once or twice a year. Stretch marks can return if the skin stretches again.

4. Why is my skin darker after microneedling?

Microneedling can sometimes cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where the skin produces too much melanin during healing, leading to dark spots.