Microneedling for Stretch Marks: What to Expect & Why It Works
If you’ve ever Googled “how to get rid of stretch marks” or “microneedling for stretch marks near me,” you’re not alone. Stretch marks are incredibly common and completely normal. But if you’re looking to soften their appearance and improve the texture of your skin, microneedling is one of the most effective treatments available today.
In this blog post, we’ll break down how microneedling helps with stretch marks, how many sessions you’ll need, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks happen when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly, causing collagen and elastin (the building blocks of firm skin) to rupture. As the skin heals, you’re left with streaky lines that can appear red, purple, or white depending on their age and your skin tone.
They often show up on the:
Stomach
Hips
Thighs
Breasts
Upper arms
Whether caused by pregnancy, puberty, weight changes, or muscle gain—stretch marks are a form of scar tissue that microneedling can treat.
Yes, Men Get Stretch Marks Too
It’s a common misconception that stretch marks only affect women—but that’s not true at all.
Men can (and often do) develop stretch marks, especially from:
Rapid muscle growth from weight training or bodybuilding
Teenage growth spurts during puberty
Fluctuations in weight or body composition
Corticosteroid use or medical conditions that affect collagen
The most common areas men notice stretch marks are:
Upper arms and shoulders (especially the deltoids)
Chest and lats
Lower back and hips
Inner thighs and glutes
Microneedling is just as effective for men, and treatments are tailored to your skin type and the area being treated. It’s a great option for guys looking to smooth out the texture of stretch marks and improve overall skin tone—without surgery or downtime.
How Does Microneedling Help with Stretch Marks?
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, uses a device with ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny punctures kickstart your body’s natural healing process, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin—exactly what your skin needs to improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Benefits of microneedling for stretch marks:
Softens texture and fades discoloration
Encourages new, smoother skin growth
Safe for all skin tones and most areas of the body
Minimal downtime compared to more invasive treatments
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Stretch marks are a form of deep dermal scarring, so results won’t be immediate—but they’re worth the wait.
Most clients need 4–6 sessions spaced about 3–4 weeks apart for optimal results.
You may start to see improvement after the second or third session, with continued results unfolding over several months as collagen rebuilds.
Who is a Good Candidate for Microneedling Stretch Mark Treatments?
Microneedling is safe for all skin tones and can be used on both old and new stretch marks. You’re a great candidate if:
Your stretch marks are bothering you
You’re in good overall health
You’re not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
You’re committed to a treatment plan and proper aftercare
What to Expect from a Microneedling Stretch Mark Treatment
Each treatment takes about 30–60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. Here’s a general idea of what the process looks like:
Before:
Arrive with clean, product-free skin
Avoid sun exposure and exfoliants for 3–5 days
We’ll go over your goals and customize your treatment plan
During:
A numbing cream is applied for comfort
The microneedling device is passed over the stretch marks in multiple directions
Hyaluronic Acid will be applied immediately after to nourish and protect the skin as well as SPF if the area is exposed to the sun
After:
Your skin may feel warm or tight (similar to a mild sunburn) for 24–48 hours
Redness, swelling and flaking and/or dryness are normal as your skin heals
Avoid hot baths, saunas, and exfoliants for a few days post-treatment
Microneedling for Stretch Marks: Final Thoughts
While there’s no magic wand to completely erase stretch marks, microneedling is one of the most effective, non-invasive options available to visibly improve their appearance. With a series of 4–6 sessions, you can expect smoother, more even-toned skin and a boost in body confidence.
Looking for Microneedling for Stretch Marks in Toronto?
Whether you're targeting postpartum stretch marks, gym gains, or old scars—this treatment is for you. Book your consultation to learn if microneedling is right for your skin. Every plan is customized to meet your needs.
Hi, I’m Darby!
I’m Subtle Enhancement’s Certified Medical Esthetician & Permanent Makeup Artist in our Parkdale clinic. My approach to beauty is both clinical and artistic. I focus on results-driven skincare rooted in science, addressing everything from acne and pigmentation to aging and barrier repair. But I also believe in enhancing your natural features with precision treatments like lip blush and cosmetic tattooing that save you time and boost your confidence. This blog is extension of that!
In the Greater Toronto Area? Consultations are free!
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