What should you know about fractional CO2 laser stretch marks?

Stretch marks form when skin stretches and its supporting structure changes. They can be red, purple, pink or lighter than nearby skin, and their texture may be slightly indented. Fractional treatment targets only part of the surface in each pass, so untreated skin can help the area heal. The result is usually gradual and depends on whether the marks are newer or older, their depth, body location and your natural response to healing.

A consultation should identify the type and maturity of the marks, your skin tone, active skin conditions and any history of prolonged darkening after inflammation. Do not laser over an active rash, infection or open wound. Follow the clinic’s cleansing and moisturising plan after each session, avoid scratching or removing flakes, and protect the area from sunlight. Ask whether other approaches such as Microneedling, RF Microneedling or Carboxytherapy are appropriate for your pattern of marks.

Ask the clinic to review increasing tenderness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, persistent blistering or a wound that is not closing. Prompt advice is also sensible if treated skin develops a rapidly expanding dark or pale patch. These changes can reflect irritation, infection or an altered pigment response and should not be managed by adding products without guidance.

Ask what improvement is realistic, whether your marks are suitable for fractional CO2, how the settings will be adapted to your skin tone, how many visits may be considered, and what downtime to plan for.