Is CO2 laser effective on stretch marks?

Question

There is an article from 2012 entiled “Fractional CO2 laser as an effective modality in the treatment of striae alba in skin types III IV” that talks about the use of laser for stretch marks. There is one picture attached and the result seems impressive. However, I have read lots of negative reviews about the fact that this laser is ineffective for stretch marks. Can a significant improvement be achieved in your opinion? Thanks

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

C02 laser is most commonly used for skin resurfacing of the face but recently has been shown to cause great improvement in stretch marks. It works by ablating a fraction of the treatment area while the surrounding skin tissue is untouched and therefore, not damaged. This not only proves to be a less invasive procedure with faster recovery times, it also produces better results as the collagen production can work in conjunction with existing, live skin tissue as opposed to the entire treatment area being damaged at once. Through the use of a topical anesthetic, side affects like mild discomfort can be allayed. A CO2 Fraxel treatment allows up to a 75% reduction in noticeable stretch marks just after a few treatments. For pregnant women, it is recommended to get laser stretch mark removal treatments as soon as possible after their delivery. The sooner the stretch marks are treated after their appearance, the better. Many middle-aged men and women now opt for fractional CO2 treatment for stretch marks.

John J. O'Brien, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. We have not found that CO2 laser resurfacing is helpful for  stretch marks. Unfortunately many of the laser treatments offer only minimal improvement. We have discovered that in the majority of cases direct excision is the best option if the skin can be removed within acceptable scar. I would recommend she discuss this with the plastic surgeon and or dermatologist in your area.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

co2 is not the best for stretch marks i suggest a combination of RF and microneedling.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

We have found that CO2 is effective for some stretch marks. Microneedling,microneedling with RF and PRP have also been effective in treating stretch marks.  Oftentimes we combine treatments for the best results.  You should discuss this with an experienced provider who can best advise you.

Is CO2 laser effective on stretch marks?

Answers (6)

Answer: Stretch Marks -- Fraxel, Microneedling/PRP, Erbium Laser, Cosmelan Peel, RF microneedling (intensif, skinfinity, venus viva)

Answer: Stretch Marks -- Fraxel, Microneedling/PRP, Erbium Laser, Cosmelan Peel, RF microneedling (intensif, skinfinity, venus viva)

Answer: CO2 for stretch marks

Answer: CO2 for stretch marks

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Is CO2 laser effective on stretch marks?

Answers (6)

Answer: Stretch Marks -- Fraxel, Microneedling/PRP, Erbium Laser, Cosmelan Peel, RF microneedling (intensif, skinfinity, venus viva)

Answer: Stretch Marks -- Fraxel, Microneedling/PRP, Erbium Laser, Cosmelan Peel, RF microneedling (intensif, skinfinity, venus viva)

Answer: CO2 for stretch marks

Answer: CO2 for stretch marks

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.