Stretch marks, or striae, are a type of scar. The American Academy of Dermatology says they develop when skin stretches or shrinks quickly. They commonly appear during pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, puberty and muscle growth, on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, arms, buttocks and back.
They are harmless to health but can affect confidence. New marks are often red, pink or purple, and older marks are often white or silvery. This difference matters because newer marks usually respond differently from older ones.
The AAD says treatment can fade stretch marks faster than time alone, and that results depend on the type of scar, your age and how long you have had it. It also advises that a dermatologist examine a scar before it is treated.
No treatment removes stretch marks completely. Most options aim to make them less noticeable, and older marks usually respond less. We tell you what is realistic for your marks before you decide. See our microneedling, PRP facial and acne scar pages for related procedures.
Marks after pregnancy
Marks after weight gain or loss
Marks from puberty or growth
Marks from muscle or gym growth
Red or purple newer marks
White or silvery older marks
Dr. Karishma Singh, Founder and Skin & Aesthetic Specialist (BHMS, FCHD), leads treatment planning and procedures. Dr. Monica C., Consultant Dermatologist (MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy; NMC-registered), assesses medical causes and prescribes medicines where they are needed.
Laser, microneedling, PRP and peels are medical procedures. We tell you at the consultation which doctor assesses you and who performs them, and we refer you if the marks look like something other than stretch marks.
Consultation & Skin Assessment
We look at the age, colour, depth and location of the marks, your skin tone, pregnancy or breastfeeding status and what you hope to change.
Personalised Plan
We explain the options, the likely number of sessions, the gap between them, the risks and the written fee.
Treatment
Depending on the plan, treatment may be microneedling, laser, PRP, a peel or a combination, with numbing cream where suitable.
Aftercare & Review
You get written aftercare. We review the skin at set intervals and change the plan if it is not responding.
Microneedling
The AAD describes microneedling as a popular, minimally invasive option that can fade scars and stretch marks. Fine needles make tiny channels in the skin and can cause redness, swelling and pinpoint bleeding.
Fractional Laser
Laser makes tiny columns of heat in the skin to prompt renewal. The AAD advises learning the key facts first to avoid serious side effects. Risks include redness, swelling and pigment change.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Your own blood is processed and applied, often with microneedling. Evidence for stretch marks is limited, and we explain this before you decide.
Medical Peels
Used for surface texture and colour on selected marks, with a risk of irritation and pigment change.
Combination Plans
Treatments can be combined and adjusted as your skin responds.
Post-Pregnancy Stretch Marks
We wait until you have finished breastfeeding for some treatments and advise on timing at the consultation.
Stretch marks usually become less noticeable gradually over several sessions. Newer red or purple marks often respond better than older white ones, and deep marks can remain visible.
Results vary from person to person and cannot be promised. Skin tone, age, how long you have had the marks and whether weight changes again all affect the outcome.
The cost depends on the area, the number and age of the marks, the method chosen, the number of sessions and any follow-up.
We don't work from a fixed price list. After your consultation you receive the recommended plan and a written fee, so you can decide at your own pace.
Assesses the marks first. Age and colour decide what is realistic.
Explains the evidence honestly. Some options have limited evidence.
Matches the method to the marks. Newer and older marks differ.
Considers pregnancy and breastfeeding. Timing matters.
Explains side effects. Including pigment change.
Reviews and adjusts. The plan changes with your skin.
Redness and mild swelling are common for a day or two after microneedling or laser, and skin can feel tight or dry.
Pinpoint scabs or flaking can occur and settle.
Most people return to routine activities, with sun protection for the treated skin.
Keep the skin moisturised with an unscented moisturiser.
Avoid direct sun and use SPF 30 or higher on exposed areas.
Avoid scrubs, hot baths and saunas for 24 to 48 hours.
Do not pick at scabs or flaking skin.
Avoid tight clothing over treated areas for 24 hours.
Contact us if there is pus, spreading redness, severe pain or fever.
Treatments can cause redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, infection, pigment change and scarring. Darker skin carries a higher risk of pigment change after laser. Some creams and treatments are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tend to form keloid scars, have a skin infection in the area, take blood thinners or isotretinoin, or have a bleeding disorder.
Dr. Karishma Singh, Skin Specialist
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People with newer red or purple marks may respond better.
People with older white marks can be assessed, with realistic expectations.
People after pregnancy once timing has been discussed with us.
People who understand several sessions are needed.
People with stable weight, as new changes can create new marks.
Treatment may need to wait or change if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an infection in the area, keloid scars, or are on isotretinoin. Tell us at your consultation.
We welcome stretch marks treatment patients from across South Pune, including NIBM, Mohammed Wadi, Kondhwa, Wanowrie, Undri, Magarpatta, Hadapsar and Camp, and from nearby areas of Pune.
If stretch marks are bothering you, The Skin Firm is at Mohammed Wadi, NIBM, South Pune. A consultation covers an examination of your marks, the options that suit them, who performs the treatment and a written fee.
We see patients from Kondhwa, NIBM, Wanowrie, Undri and nearby areas. Call +91 8308669966 or use the button below to request a time.