Close-up of stretch marks on the thigh area

Stretch Mark Treatments

Name: Stretch Mark Treatments
Creator: Dr Selena Langdon
Published: 2024-01-15

Clinical management of striae distensae through dermal remodelling

Striae distensae (stretch marks) result from rapid mechanical stretching of the dermis exceeding its elastic capacity, leading to disruption of collagen and elastin fibres. At Berkshire Aesthetics, our clinicians assess striae maturity (rubrae vs albae), depth and distribution before recommending appropriate dermal remodelling protocols to improve texture and appearance. Treatment suitability and sequencing are confirmed during a doctor-led consultation after clinical assessment.

Doctor-Led

CQC Registered

Award-Recognised

Est. 2016

Aetiology & Contributing Factors

Most skin and aesthetic concerns are multifactorial. Clinical assessment helps identify which contributing factors are most relevant in your case before treatment is selected.

Rapid skin stretching during pregnancy
Growth spurts during puberty
Rapid weight gain or loss
Bodybuilding or rapid muscle growth
Hormonal changes, particularly increased cortisol levels
Genetic predisposition to stretch mark formation
Long-term use of corticosteroid medications

Clinical Presentation

Presentation varies by skin type, severity and duration. These are common clinical signs we assess during consultation.

Red, pink or purple streaks (striae rubrae) — newer stretch marks
White or silvery streaks (striae albae) — mature stretch marks
Indented or slightly textured lines on the skin surface
Most commonly found on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks and upper arms
Skin may feel slightly thinner or different in texture in affected areas

Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities

Treatment selection is individualised following clinical assessment, taking into account disease severity, Fitzpatrick skin type, medical history and patient goals. You can also review our consultation standards before booking.

Polynucleotides treatment for stretch marks

Polynucleotide injections support tissue regeneration at the cellular level, improving skin quality and promoting healing in stretch-marked areas. They can be used alongside Morpheus8 for enhanced results. Suitability and sequencing are confirmed during your doctor-led consultation.

Why we start with a consultation

Every treatment begins with a medical assessment. We need to understand your medical history, current health, skin condition and concerns before prescribing any procedure. This protects your safety and ensures the treatment is clinically appropriate for you.

During your consultation, your clinician will explain what the treatment can realistically achieve, any risks specific to you, and whether an alternative might be more appropriate. Consultations are carried out by our doctors or advanced aesthetic practitioners, depending on the treatment or concern being assessed.

Book a Consultation Call 01628 202028

All bookings are subject to our Booking Conditions.

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Clinical FAQs: Stretch Marks

These answers cover common practical questions. For individual diagnosis and treatment advice, book a medical consultation.

Complete removal is not currently possible with any treatment. However, significant improvement in texture, colour and visibility is achievable. Your doctor will set realistic expectations at consultation.

Generally, yes. Newer (red or purple) stretch marks tend to respond better to treatment than mature (white or silver) ones. However, improvement is possible for both types.

Most patients benefit from 3–4 Morpheus8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. The number depends on the severity and age of your stretch marks. Your doctor will recommend a tailored plan.

Topical anaesthetic is applied before Morpheus8 treatment to maximise comfort. Most patients describe a warm prickling sensation. Your clinician adjusts settings to your tolerance.

Morpheus8 body typically involves 2–5 days of redness and mild swelling in the treated area. Polynucleotide injections have minimal downtime. You can usually return to normal activities within a few days.

Yes. Post-pregnancy stretch marks are one of the most common concerns we treat. Treatment can begin once you have finished breastfeeding. Timing is discussed during your consultation.

Yes. Morpheus8 is suitable for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–VI) as the radiofrequency energy is delivered beneath the skin surface, reducing the risk of pigmentation changes.

Plan Your Next Step

Use these links to review consultation standards, check treatment pricing, and request a doctor-led assessment.

Read consultation standards View treatment prices in Maidenhead Book a doctor-led consultation Browse all conditions we treat

Clinically reviewed by

Dr Selena Langdon — Medical Director, MBBS

GMC 6159259

Last reviewed: 31 March 2026

Clinical Summary

Expected Recovery PeriodModerate — expect 2–5 days of redness and swelling for Morpheus8 body treatments; minimal downtime for polynucleotide injections

Therapeutic ResponseInitial improvements visible within 4–6 weeks; collagen remodelling continues progressively over 3–6 months with optimal results after completing a full course

Clinical Governance

Stretch mark treatments are assessed and overseen by experienced doctors who understand the underlying skin changes
We use Morpheus8 body, which can reach the deeper skin layers where stretch marks form, for more effective remodelling
Realistic expectations are set during consultation — we explain what degree of improvement is achievable for your specific stretch marks

Book a Consultation

Request a medical assessment for your stretch marks with our clinical team.

Book Now Call 01628 202028