Can CO2 Fractional Laser Treatment Remove Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are common in up to 90% of people, either going through puberty or pregnancy. If the appearance still bothers you, many treatments today can improve the appearance of stretch marks. One of these treatments is CO2 fractional laser treatment.

How Do Stretch Marks Occur?

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches rapidly and breaks down collagen and elastin fibers. This results in visible lines or streaks on the skin, often found on the abdomen, thighs, hips, and breasts.

What Is CO2 Fractional Laser Treatment?

CO2 fractional laser treatment uses a carbon dioxide laser to create micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny, controlled wounds stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, encouraging collagen and elastin production.

Collagen and elastin are proteins that the body uses in skin repair and regeneration. In a CO2 fractional laser treatment, the broken collagen and elastin in stretch marks are repaired.

“Fractional” refers to the laser treating only a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This promotes faster healing and minimizes downtime.

How CO2 Laser Treatment Works

The CO2 laser emits light energy absorbed by the water in the skin’s tissue. This energy is converted into heat, creating controlled injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing process. 

As the skin heals, it produces new collagen and elastin, leading to smoother, firmer skin. This process reduces the appearance of stretch marks over time.

CO2 Laser for Stretch Marks

CO2 fractional laser treatment can reduce the appearance of stretch marks by increasing collagen and elastin production to repair damaged skin tissue. The treatment also improves its texture and elasticity. 

By removing the top layer of skin, the laser encourages the growth of new, healthy skin cells, making stretch marks less noticeable. CO2 laser skin resurfacing can even out skin tone and smooth out the texture, reducing the appearance of stretch marks from the surrounding skin.

CO2 Laser Treatment Session

The CO2 fractional laser treatment begins with a thorough consultation to determine if CO2 fractional laser resurfacing is the right treatment for you. Those with open wounds or active infections may be advised to heal first before considering fractional laser treatment.

During the consultation, you will undergo a skin assessment to check the condition of your stretch marks. Our dermatologist will create a treatment plan matching your skin goals and schedule preferences. 

On your CO2 laser session day, the treatment area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic will be applied to minimize discomfort. The CO2 laser device is then moved across the stretch marks, creating tiny wounds in the skin. 

The entire process takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. 

CO2 Laser Treatment Aftercare

After the treatment, you may experience redness and swelling. These are common side effects that subside in 48 hours. The treated skin will begin to peel three days after the treatment and continue until seven to 10 days. During the peeling stage, avoiding activities that will make you sweat is recommended.

A week after your CO2 fractional laser, new skin cells will emerge and improve the appearance of your stretch marks.

CO2 Fractional Laser Results

The best results from a CO2 fractional laser treatment for stretch marks depend on factors such as skin type, the age of the stretch marks, and individual response to treatment. Most patients see a noticeable improvement after a series of treatments, with stretch marks becoming less visible and the skin looking smoother and more even-toned. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations, as it’s unlikely that the stretch marks will disappear entirely.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing Benefits

CO2 fractional laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure, meaning no incisions or needles are involved. Compared to more invasive procedures, CO2 laser skin resurfacing requires minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily activities relatively quickly. 

With proper skin care and maintenance, the results of CO2 laser for stretch marks can be long-lasting. Contact a dermatologist in Scarsdale, NY, today to experience the benefits of fractional laser treatment for stretch marks.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re considering a stretch mark treatment or other cosmetic services, you can try CO2 fractional laser resurfacing at Westchester Center for Dermatology. Our dermatologists and aestheticians can help you learn more about how fractional CO2 resurfacing can repair damaged skin and improve the appearance of stretch marks. 

Our practice is also available in Hasting on Hudson, Crestwood, Tuckahoe, Thornwood, Pleasantville, Harrison, Hawthorne, and Purchase.