.png)
Updated October 2026
Stretch marks are one of the most common skin concerns, and one of the least talked about. They show up after pregnancy, after a growth spurt, after gaining or losing weight, and after months of building muscle at the gym. They are harmless, but many people would still like them to be less noticeable, especially heading into a beach vacation or simply wanting to feel more comfortable in their own skin.
Microneedling is one of the most practical options for softening their appearance. At Marée Aesthetics & Longevity in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, microneedling is performed with the Collagen P.I.N. device and is used on the body for stretch marks and scars as well as on the face, neck, and chest. Here is how it works, what results are realistic, and how patients across Somerset County and Morris County can decide whether it is right for them.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks form when skin stretches or shrinks quickly, which breaks down the collagen and elastin that keep skin smooth and resilient. According to Cleveland Clinic, common triggers include pregnancy, weight gain or loss, bodybuilding, and growth spurts during adolescence.
They often begin as pink, red, or purple lines and gradually fade to a lighter, silvery or white color over time. Their texture can feel slightly indented compared with the surrounding skin.
Can Microneedling Improve Stretch Marks?
Yes, microneedling can improve the appearance of stretch marks for many people by stimulating new collagen in the treated skin. It does not usually erase them completely, but it can help make them softer, smoother, and less noticeable over a series of sessions.
Microneedling is sometimes called collagen induction therapy. The device creates precise, controlled microchannels in the skin, which prompts the body's natural repair process. As the skin rebuilds, texture and tone can gradually improve. Cleveland Clinic lists microneedling among the treatments used for stretch marks and notes that most people need three to six treatments.
How Does Microneedling Work on Stretch Marks?
During a microneedling session at Marée, your provider applies a topical numbing cream, then treats the area with the Collagen P.I.N. device. Nourishing serums are applied during treatment. Sessions typically take 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area.
Because the device creates controlled micro-injuries rather than removing the surface layer of skin, the recovery is generally manageable. The improvement builds gradually with each session as collagen remodeling continues.
How Many Microneedling Sessions Do Stretch Marks Need?
Most people need a series rather than a single appointment. At Marée, a typical microneedling series is three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Stretch marks, particularly older or more extensive ones, often fall toward the higher end of that range.
Your provider will recommend a specific number after evaluating the size, age, color, and depth of your stretch marks during a consultation.
Do New or Old Stretch Marks Respond Better?
Newer stretch marks that are still pink or red are often considered more responsive to treatment than older, white stretch marks. That does not mean older marks cannot improve. It simply means expectations should be adjusted. Mature stretch marks may soften and blend better with surrounding skin, but they typically need more sessions and patience.
What Is Recovery Like After Microneedling?
Recovery is usually short. According to Marée's microneedling page, mild redness or tightness is normal for about one to two days, and full skincare routines can usually resume after two to three days.
Cleveland Clinic notes that redness, swelling, burning, tightness, and dry or flaking skin can occur in the days after treatment, and that less common risks include bruising, infection, and scarring. Following aftercare instructions carefully helps support healing.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Microneedling for Stretch Marks?
Good candidates are healthy adults with stretch marks they would like to soften and who can commit to a series of treatments. Candidacy is confirmed during a consultation.
Some people may need to wait or discuss their situation first. Marée does not recommend microneedling during pregnancy or while nursing. Cleveland Clinic also advises speaking with a provider first if you take blood thinners, have a tendency to form raised or keloid scars, have active skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis in the area, or have moles or growths that are changing.
How Do Stretch Marks Differ by Life Stage and Lifestyle?
Stretch marks are universal, but the reasons people seek treatment, and the timing that makes sense, vary.
Women After Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of stretch marks on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and breasts. Because microneedling is not recommended during pregnancy or nursing, many women plan treatment for after they have finished breastfeeding. This is also a good time to discuss broader goals. Some women in Basking Ridge and the surrounding area combine stretch mark treatment with other body or skin goals once they are ready to focus on themselves again.
Gen Z and Younger Adults
Growth spurts during the teen years often leave stretch marks on the hips, thighs, back, or upper arms that young adults notice more once they are in college or starting their careers. Because these marks may be relatively newer, younger adults sometimes see encouraging improvement. For young adults heading into summer plans, it is worth starting early, since a full series can take several months.
Men Who Lift or Have Changed Weight
Bodybuilding and rapid muscle gain commonly cause stretch marks across the shoulders, chest, upper arms, and back. Significant weight loss can also leave marks behind. Many men do not realize stretch mark treatment is an option for them, but the same collagen-building approach applies. Training can usually continue around treatment, although avoiding intense workouts and heavy sweating in the first day or two after a session helps protect the treated skin.
Can Microneedling Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Microneedling for stretch marks is often part of a broader plan. If you are also working on body composition goals, Marée's Metabolic Weight Loss program offers medical guidance with consultation, body composition analysis, and regular follow-ups. Your provider can help you decide whether to time microneedling during or after significant weight changes.
If you are curious about microneedling for other concerns, you may also want to read about microneedling for acne scars or how microneedling works.
How Can You Protect Your Results?
A few habits help your skin get the most from each session:
- Follow your provider's aftercare instructions closely.
- Avoid picking at dry or flaking skin while it heals.
- Protect treated areas from sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF on any exposed skin.
- Keep skin well moisturized.
- Stay consistent with your full series rather than stopping after one or two sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does microneedling get rid of stretch marks completely?
Microneedling does not typically erase stretch marks entirely, but it can make them softer, smoother, and less noticeable by stimulating collagen in the treated skin.
How long does it take to see results from microneedling on stretch marks?
Improvement builds gradually over a series of sessions as the skin remodels. Most people notice the most meaningful change after completing several treatments spaced four to six weeks apart.
Does microneedling for stretch marks hurt?
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to help keep you comfortable. Many people describe the sensation as tolerable pressure or light scratching.
Can I get microneedling for stretch marks while pregnant?
No. Marée does not recommend microneedling during pregnancy or while nursing. Many women plan treatment for after breastfeeding.
Is microneedling for stretch marks only for women?
Not at all. Men often develop stretch marks from muscle gain or weight changes, and microneedling can be an option for them as well.
Mark My Words: Smoother Skin Is a Series, Not a Sprint
Stretch marks are a normal part of life, but if you would like them to be less noticeable, microneedling offers a measured, collagen-based way to soften their appearance over time. Marée Aesthetics & Longevity in Basking Ridge welcomes patients from across Somerset and Morris Counties to a free consultation to evaluate their stretch marks and build a realistic plan.
Book your consultation or call (908) 373-0005.
