Laser treatment for stretch marks: what can Fotona improve?

Written by Dr. Sarat Anandh, MD DVL

Medical Council registered dermatologist · 4 September 2026

Laser can soften colour and texture, but stretch marks are scars within the dermis and usually need staged, realistic treatment.

Laser treatment for stretch marks aims to improve appearance, not make normal skin behave as if the marks never formed. Stretch marks, or striae, develop when the dermis changes during rapid growth, pregnancy, weight change, puberty or corticosteroid exposure. Early marks may be red or purple; older ones are usually pale and indented.

That stage matters. Red striae have a vascular component, while mature white striae need more emphasis on texture and collagen remodelling. Skin tone, body area, width and previous treatment also influence the plan.

What Fotona laser can target

The Fotona SP Dynamis NX Line combines Er:YAG and Nd:YAG wavelengths. Er:YAG can be used for controlled fractional resurfacing of superficial texture. Nd:YAG modes can deliver deeper thermal effects and may be selected as part of a combined protocol. The fact that a platform has two wavelengths does not mean every patient needs both at every visit.

The doctor chooses treatment depth, coverage, energy and interval after examining the mark and surrounding skin. In Indian skin, conservative parameters and sun protection are important because inflammation can lead to post-inflammatory pigmentation.

What the evidence shows

A 2026 systematic review found studies of topical treatments, lasers, energy devices and combinations, but concluded that the evidence does not define one superior approach. Many studies are small, use different scales and mix early with mature striae. Improvement is possible, yet comparison between devices remains difficult.

Fractional ablative and non-ablative lasers, microneedling radiofrequency, tretinoin for selected early marks and combination approaches all have supporting reports. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, active dermatitis, recent tanning and keloid tendency change what can be offered.

What a session and recovery may involve

Treatment begins with photographs in consistent light and, when appropriate, a test area. Eye protection is mandatory. Fractional resurfacing can produce redness, swelling, pinpoint crusting or temporary darkening. The expected recovery depends on treatment intensity and body site.

Do not use a laser over infection, open wounds or an undiagnosed rapidly changing rash. Follow the aftercare plan, avoid picking and protect exposed areas from sun. Contact the clinic for blistering, increasing pain, pus, fever or persistent colour change.

Does weight loss change stretch-mark treatment?

During active weight change, new marks may appear and body contour may continue to shift. Stable weight is not always required, but timing should be discussed. Strength training may improve the shape beneath the skin, yet it does not directly remove dermal scars.

Topical oils can moisturise and reduce friction, but they do not reliably rebuild established striae. A plan may combine skin care, laser or microneedling-based treatment according to the mark rather than selling a fixed package.

Choosing stretch-mark laser treatment in Chennai

When comparing a laser clinic in Chennai, ask which wavelength and mode will be used, who performs the procedure, expected downtime and how pigment risk is managed. Before-and-after images should use similar lighting and show marks like yours.

The Derm Edit in Anna Nagar West Extension and Mogappair uses the Fotona SP Dynamis NX Line within doctor-led treatment plans. Dr. Sarat Anandh, MD DVL, is a Medical Council registered dermatologist. The platform received the Aesthetics Awards 2025 Device of the Year award in the UK and Ireland; that recognition does not prove a particular clinical result. Message us on WhatsApp for details.