Microneedling for stretch marks: does it work?
TL;DR
Microneedling for stretch marks can make them softer, flatter and less noticeable by triggering new collagen in the skin. It won't remove them completely, and results build over a course of sessions. Newer red or pink marks usually respond best. It isn't suitable during pregnancy, so wait until after you've had your baby and finished breastfeeding.
Microneedling for stretch marks is one of the most effective salon treatments for improving their texture and appearance. Stretch marks form when the skin stretches quickly and the collagen underneath is damaged, and microneedling works by encouraging the skin to repair and rebuild that collagen.
This guide explains how it works, which stretch marks respond best, how many sessions you're likely to need, what results are realistic and who should wait. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, so this is honest advice from our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- The concern
- streaks or lines on the skin caused by rapid stretching, such as growth, pregnancy or weight change
- How microneedling helps
- tiny channels trigger new collagen to soften and smooth the marks
- Best results
- newer red or pink marks, though older silver marks can improve too
- Typical sessions
- a course of several treatments, often at the longer end
- Realistic results
- softer, flatter, less noticeable marks rather than complete removal
- Other options
- SKINSTORM and the Medik8 body peel
- First step
- a free skin consultation to assess your marks
Does microneedling for stretch marks work?
Yes, microneedling for stretch marks can make them noticeably softer, flatter and closer to your natural skin tone. It works by creating tiny, controlled channels in the skin, which prompts the body to produce new collagen and elastin in the treated area. It won't erase stretch marks completely, but most people see a real improvement in texture over a course.
The NHS notes that no treatment will make stretch marks disappear completely, and that they often fade over time on their own. Treatment aims to speed up that process and improve how they look and feel.
Which stretch marks respond best?
Newer stretch marks, which are usually red, pink or purple, tend to respond best to microneedling because the skin is still actively healing. Older stretch marks, which have faded to white or silver, can still improve in texture, but usually need more sessions and the change is more gradual.
- Red or pink marks: newer marks that usually respond fastest.
- White or silver marks: older marks that can soften in texture over a longer course.
- Common areas: tummy, hips, thighs, bottom, breasts and upper arms.
Gina's tip: Newer, pink or red stretch marks usually respond better than older silver ones, so if you're thinking about treatment, it's worth starting sooner rather than later.
How many sessions of microneedling for stretch marks will you need?
Most people need a course of several sessions, and stretch marks are usually at the longer end compared with facial concerns. Body skin is thicker and older marks respond more slowly, so results build gradually. Sessions are typically spaced around four to six weeks apart to give your skin time to rebuild collagen between treatments.
We'll give you a realistic plan for your marks at your consultation. Our guide to how many microneedling sessions you need explains course lengths in more detail.
What happens during treatment?
During microneedling at Gina Rose Beauty, the area is cleansed and prepped, then a sterile device creates many small, controlled punctures while a serum is applied. Exosomes and FGF10 are well suited to scarring and texture, and the channels help the serum work deeper in the skin. Most people describe a mild scratching or vibrating sensation.
A 2024 clinical review of microneedling supports its use for scarring, including stretch marks, with improvements building over a series of treatments.
Aftercare
Expect some redness and sensitivity for a day or two. Keep the area clean and moisturised, avoid tight clothing that rubs, skip swimming and the sun for at least 24 hours, and pause active skincare for a few days. If the treated area will be exposed, wear SPF 30 or higher.
What are the other options for stretch marks?
A SKINSTORM treatment also targets stretch marks and scarring, combining resurfacing, an oxygen ice peel, oxygen needling and light therapy. The Medik8 body peel, from £80, is designed for scarring and pigmentation on the body and can work alongside microneedling across a course. We'll recommend the best option, or combination, at your consultation.
Who should wait before having microneedling for stretch marks?
Microneedling isn't suitable during pregnancy, and it's best to wait until you've finished breastfeeding before starting treatment. It also isn't suitable over active skin infections or broken skin, or after recent isotretinoin (Roaccutane) use. Tell us if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners or scar easily.
If stretch marks appear suddenly without an obvious reason such as growth, pregnancy or weight change, the NHS advises speaking to a GP, as they can occasionally be linked to a medical condition or medication.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield
Thinking about microneedling for stretch marks? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll assess your marks and recommend a plan, with clear pricing. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha
You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, microneedling at Gina Rose Beauty, or explore all our skincare treatments.
Frequently asked questions
Does microneedling for stretch marks work?
Yes. Microneedling for stretch marks can make them softer, flatter and less noticeable by triggering new collagen. It won't remove them completely, but most people see a real improvement over a course.
How many sessions of microneedling for stretch marks will I need?
Most people need several sessions of microneedling for stretch marks, spaced around four to six weeks apart. Older white or silver marks usually need more than newer red ones.
Can stretch marks be removed completely?
No treatment removes stretch marks completely, but they can be made much less noticeable. Many also fade naturally over time.
Do old stretch marks respond to microneedling?
Yes, older white or silver marks can soften in texture, but they usually need a longer course and the change is more gradual than with newer marks.
Can I have microneedling during pregnancy?
No. Microneedling isn't suitable during pregnancy, and it's best to wait until you've finished breastfeeding.
Does microneedling on the body hurt?
Most people feel a mild scratching or vibrating sensation. Some redness and sensitivity for a day or two afterwards is normal.
What else can help stretch marks?
SKINSTORM and the Medik8 body peel can also help, and we may recommend combining treatments across a course.