CAN MICRONEEDLING HELP WITH STRETCH MARKS?
Stretch marks are completely normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them if they bother you. Many people want a skin treatment that improves texture and reduces the appearance of stretch marks without surgery.
Microneedling is one of the most popular options for this because it is non-surgical and works by stimulating the body’s natural healing process. So does that mean microneedling can actually help with stretch marks?
In this blog, you’ll learn more about microneedling for stretch marks, including what it is, what it involves, the benefits, the duration needed to see results, and other commonly asked questions, to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you.
What Are Stretch Marks and Why Do They Appear?
Stretch marks form when the skin is stretched faster than it can adapt. This causes tiny tears in the deeper layers of the skin, which then heal as lines or streaks. They can appear as:
- Pink, red, or purple lines (newer stretch marks)
- Silver or white lines (older stretch marks)
Common causes include:
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight gain or loss
- Puberty
- Muscle growth
- Hormonal changes
Stretch marks are harmless, but many people seek treatment to improve skin texture and reduce visibility. Microneedling is often chosen because it targets the underlying skin structure, not just the surface.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a non-surgical skin treatment that uses fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny punctures trigger the body’s natural healing response, which increases collagen and elastin production.
The needles used in professional microneedling devices typically range from 0.25mm to 2.5mm, depending on the area being treated and the severity of the stretch marks. For stretch marks, deeper needle depths are often used because the marks sit in the deeper layers of the skin.
Stretch marks form in the deeper dermal layer, so treatments that only work on the surface often have limited results. Microneedling targets the deeper tissue where the damage sits, helping the skin rebuild from the inside out.
What Does Microneedling Do to the Skin?
Microneedling stimulates collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for strong and smooth skin. As the skin heals, it becomes firmer and more even in texture. This is why microneedling can improve the appearance of stretch marks, which are essentially a type of scarring.
Over time, microneedling can:
- Improve skin texture and smoothness
- Reduce the depth of stretch marks
- Make stretch marks blend more with the surrounding skin
- Improve overall skin firmness
- Support stronger, more resilient skin in treated areas
What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?
Microneedling offers benefits beyond stretch mark reduction, including:
- Improved skin texture and tone
- Increased collagen production
- Reduced the appearance of scars and stretch marks
- Minimal downtime compared to surgical options
- Suitable for most skin types
- Can be combined with topical serums for better results
Because results develop gradually, they tend to look natural rather than sudden or obvious.
Can Microneedling Help With Stretch Marks?
Yes, microneedling can help improve the appearance of stretch marks. It is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available for stretch mark reduction because it targets the skin at a deeper level.
Microneedling works best when used as a series of treatments, as collagen production increases over time. While it won’t erase stretch marks completely, it can make them noticeably less visible.
How Microneedling Improves the Appearance of Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a form of scarring, and microneedling helps by breaking down damaged tissue and encouraging new collagen formation. This results in:
- Softer-looking stretch marks
- Reduced indentation or texture
- A more even skin tone
- Improved skin resilience and elasticity
For the best results, a series of microneedling treatments is advised.
Microneedling for New vs Older Stretch Marks
New stretch marks (pink or red) usually respond faster and more visibly to microneedling because the skin is still in the early stage of healing.
Older stretch marks (white or silver) can still improve, but they may require more sessions and more time to show results.
Which Areas Can Be Treated With Microneedling?
Microneedling can be performed on most areas where stretch marks appear, including:
- Stomach
- Thighs
- Hips
- Buttocks
- Arms
- Breasts
Your practitioner will adjust the needle depth and treatment plan depending on the area and severity of the stretch marks.
Is Microneedling for Stretch Marks Painful?
Microneedling is generally well tolerated, and a topical numbing cream is applied before the treatment, so discomfort is minimal.
Most people describe the feeling as mild scratching or vibrating, rather than actual pain. Any discomfort usually fades quickly once the treatment ends.
If you’re nervous about pain, that’s totally normal. Read our blog on microneedling pain to find out what to expect, how numbing cream helps, and whether it’s actually uncomfortable.
Is Microneedling for Stretch Marks Safe?
Microneedling is safe when performed by a trained professional using sterile equipment with correct application. Usual side effects of microneedling include:
- Redness
- Mild swelling
- Sensitivity
These symptoms are usually mild and typically settle within a few days.
How Many Microneedling Sessions Are Needed?
Results from microneedling will build gradually over the course of your treatment plan. Most people require 3 to 6 microneedling sessions, spaced approximately 2 to 4 weeks apart, to see noticeable improvement.
The exact number of microneedling sessions will depend on:
- The age and depth of the stretch marks
- The area being treated
- Your skin’s response to treatment
At Hannah McCou Clinic, we create a personalised treatment plan based on your goals, so please don’t worry if you are unsure about how many you will need. We will advise you during your consultation.
How Long Do Microneedling Results Last?
You will notice that the results from microneedling will continue to develop for weeks after each session. Microneedling results can last long-term because the treatment stimulates natural collagen production.
However, lifestyle factors, ageing, and future skin changes can affect results, which is why we may recommend maintenance sessions to support ongoing skin health.
Microneedling Before and After Results
After microneedling, you may start to notice that you have:
- Softer-looking stretch marks
- Smoother skin texture
- More even skin tone
But please note that results will vary from person to person, but many people notice visible improvement after completing a full course of treatments.
Is Microneedling for Stretch Marks Worth It?
Microneedling is definitely worth considering if you want a non-invasive way to reduce the appearance of your stretch marks and improve your overall skin texture. It won’t completely remove stretch marks, but it can make a noticeable difference to their appearance.
If this is what you’re looking for, microneedling will be a worthwhile investment.
Who Is Microneedling Suitable For?
Microneedling is suitable for most skin types and is often chosen by people who:
- Have stretch marks after pregnancy
- Have experienced weight changes
- Want to improve skin texture without surgery
A consultation is necessary before we can start the treatment to confirm suitability and set realistic expectations, so please feel free to ask us any questions then or give us a call today.
Interested in Microneedling? Book a Consultation With Hannah McCoy Clinic Today
Microneedling is a safe, effective, non-surgical, and relatively comfortable way to rejuvenate your skin. If stretch marks are affecting your confidence, this treatment could help reduce their appearance while improving skin texture and tone.
Our passionate and highly trained team at Hannah McCoy Clinic has extensive experience with microneedling and can customise each session to your skin’s needs. So, if you want to target stretch marks, pigmentation, fine lines, or simply achieve an overall glow, we’re here to listen and support you.
You’ll find our flagship clinic in Liverpool, and we also operate from Leeds, London, and the Isle of Man, making it easy to find a location that suits you. Book a microneedling consultation with us today, and let’s create a treatment plan that works for you and your skin goals. We can’t wait to hear from you!