Stretch Mark & Scar Removal in Torrance
Treatment for stretch marks and scars, including C-section scars, tummy-tuck scars, liposuction entry scars, hypertrophic scars, and selected keloids. Options include microneedling, RF microneedling, fractional CO2, Erbium laser, and scar injections.
Stretch marks are a form of dermal scarring that can develop with pregnancy, growth, weight change, hormonal shifts, or other periods of rapid skin stretching. Treatments such as microneedling, RF microneedling, fractional lasers, and Morpheus8 may improve texture and color through controlled skin remodeling. No treatment can guarantee complete removal, so the provider first evaluates the type of stretch mark or scar, skin tone, body area, prior treatments, and recovery goals before recommending an approach.
Stretch Mark & Scar Removal at a Glance
What Type of Stretch Mark Do You Have?
The right treatment depends on the stage and type of your marks. Early marks respond differently than mature ones, and surgical scars require a different approach entirely. Understanding your starting point helps us design the most effective plan.
Striae rubra, new, inflamed, often slightly raised or tender
These appear pink, red, or purple and are still in the active inflammatory phase. The skin is producing disorganized collagen and the marks may feel slightly tender. This is the most responsive stage for treatment because the repair process is already active. Devices simply redirect and amplify it.
They commonly develop on the abdomen during or after pregnancy, on the inner thighs during growth spurts, on the upper arms and shoulders during rapid muscle gain, and on the hips during hormonal changes.
Best first line: RF Microneedling or Morpheus8 + optional PRPStriae alba, older, pale, slightly depressed
These have completed the inflammatory phase and now appear pale, silvery, or white. The tissue feels thinned and slightly indented compared to surrounding skin. Pigment-producing cells have retreated from the area, which is why the marks look lighter. These require more aggressive resurfacing to create new repair activity.
Common areas include the outer thighs, hips, buttocks, chest, and lower abdomen. Older marks that developed years or decades ago most often present this way.
Best first line: Fractional CO2 or Fractional Erbium laserC-section lines, tummy tuck scars, liposuction entry points
Surgical scars are structurally different from stretch marks. They can appear raised, thickened, discolored, or tethered to underlying tissue. C-section and tummy tuck lines often have both color and texture irregularities. Liposuction entry points can look dark or puckered. Keloid or hypertrophic scars require flattening before resurfacing.
Treatment plans are staged: flatten raised tissue first with keloid injections if needed, then resurface color and texture with fractional CO2, then address stiffness with RF microneedling. Surgeon clearance is required before treating surgical scars.
Best first line: Fractional CO2, or Keloid Injections if raised
A provider assesses mark type, skin tone, and body area before recommending a treatment plan.
Scar Removal Treatments in Torrance
Many patients search for scar removal, but the realistic goal is usually to make a scar flatter, softer, smoother, less discolored, or less noticeable rather than promise that every trace of scar tissue will disappear. The treatment depends on how the scar formed and how it behaves.
Surgical Scar Treatment
Fully healed surgical scars may be treated for color, texture, thickness, or firmness. Depending on the scar, the provider may discuss fractional CO2, Erbium resurfacing, microneedling, RF microneedling, or a staged combination.
C-Section and Tummy-Tuck Scars
These scars can be flat, dark, pale, firm, tethered, widened, or raised. Treatment is selected according to the feature that is most noticeable, and the incision must be fully healed before cosmetic scar treatment begins.
Liposuction Entry Scars and Small Procedure Scars
Small entry-point scars may look dark, depressed, firm, or puckered. Laser resurfacing or microneedling may be considered when the goal is to blend texture or color more closely with the surrounding skin.
Hypertrophic and Keloid Scars
Raised scars require a different approach from flat scars. Intralesional scar injections may be considered to reduce thickness or firmness before resurfacing or microneedling is discussed. Keloids can recur, so treatment planning is individualized.
Looking for facial acne scar treatment? See our dedicated Acne Scar Treatment page so facial acne scarring and body or surgical scars stay clearly separated.
Stretch Mark and Scar Treatment Options
Use this as a starting point. The provider still examines the mark or scar, reviews skin tone and medical history, and decides which option is appropriate.
| Your Concern | Options Commonly Considered | Possible Add-Ons | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early red or purple stretch marks | RF Microneedling or Morpheus8 | PRP for faster tone balance | Great for abdomen after pregnancy and inner thighs |
| Mature white marks with shallow grooves | Fractional CO2 or Fractional Erbium | RF Microneedling between laser visits | Outer thighs, hips, chest, and buttocks |
| C-section or tummy tuck scar | Fractional CO2 to blend color and edges | RF Microneedling for thickness and pliability | Start after surgeon clearance; mature scars respond well |
| Raised or keloid scar | Keloid injections to flatten first | Fractional laser once flattening begins | Series improves height and color match |
| Mixed red and white marks, large area | Morpheus8 for remodeling and texture | CO2 or Erbium laser for surface | Layered series approach works best |
| Darker skin tones with stretch marks | RF Microneedling or Morpheus8 first | Fractional Erbium once skin is assessed | Settings and treatment choice are selected after individual skin-tone assessment |
Treatment Plans by Body Area
Each body area has different skin thickness, laxity, and mark patterns. Tap an area to see the recommended approach.
Begin with RF Microneedling or Morpheus8 for collagen remodeling and improved firmness. Add PRP when you want faster recovery and enhanced glow. For mature white lines on the lower abdomen, layer Fractional CO2 or Erbium in the series, typically alternating visits. Most abdominal programs run 3 to 5 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
For wide coverage areas we start with Fractional Erbium or Fractional CO2 to smooth texture, then maintain with RF sessions between laser visits. Outer thigh marks are often mature and white, so laser resurfacing is the primary driver of improvement. A series of 3 sessions typically produces the most consistent result.
Inner thigh marks often show color imbalance first, the marks appear darker or redder than surrounding skin. RF Microneedling with PRP is effective here because it addresses both color and texture simultaneously. For persistent white marks, we add Fractional Erbium. The inner thigh is thinner skin, so we adjust settings accordingly.
Chest skin is thinner and more delicate, so we favor Fractional Erbium or gentle Fractional CO2 with conservative settings. A short series of 2 to 3 sessions improves fine texture while keeping recovery simple, typically 3 to 5 days of mild flaking. RF Microneedling at shallow depth can be added for additional remodeling.
We blend the scar border with Fractional CO2, which softens color and edge irregularities. RF Microneedling is then used to address stiffness and thickness along the line. If the scar rises or thickens, we flatten it with keloid injections before resurfacing. Surgeon clearance and a healed incision, typically at least 6 to 12 months post-surgery, are required before starting treatment.
Small entry-point circles can appear dark, puckered, or depressed. Fractional laser blends the color difference between the spot and surrounding skin, while RF Microneedling improves thickness and pliability so the spot integrates more naturally. These typically respond well in 2 to 3 sessions.
RF microneedling delivers controlled heat beneath the skin to trigger new collagen production.
Who May Be a Candidate for Stretch Mark or Scar Removal Treatment?
These treatments are considered only after the area is examined. The right option depends on whether the concern is a stretch mark, a flat surgical scar, a hypertrophic scar, a keloid, or another skin finding.
- Patients seeking improvement in the appearance of stretch marks rather than guaranteed removal
- Patients with fully healed surgical scars who have appropriate clearance when needed
- Patients able to follow sun-protection and aftercare instructions for the selected treatment
- Patients whose skin tone, scar type, medical history, and medications allow an appropriate treatment plan
- Patients who understand that multiple sessions or combination treatment may be needed
What We Evaluate Before Recommending Stretch Mark or Scar Treatment
Mark or scar type: Newer red striae, older pale striae, flat surgical scars, hypertrophic scars, and keloids do not behave the same way.
Skin tone and pigment history: This affects whether laser, microneedling, RF, or a more conservative approach is appropriate.
Body area and skin thickness: Abdomen, thighs, chest, arms, and surgical lines require different settings and recovery planning.
Age and depth: Older white stretch marks and deeper scars may need a different approach than newer marks.
Prior procedures and healing: We review surgery dates, prior laser or microneedling, keloid history, and how the skin has healed before.
Recovery and expectations: The provider explains what improvement is realistic and how much downtime each option may involve.
Before You Book a Stretch Mark or Scar Consultation
Question 1 of 4What would you like us to evaluate?
How would you describe the area?
Which area are you considering?
How would you like to continue?
Thanks. Choose whichever way you’d like to continue:
Stretch Mark and Scar Removal Treatments We May Use
No single device is best for every stretch mark or scar. The provider chooses among the options below based on the mark type, skin tone, body area, scar behavior, and recovery goals.
Morpheus8
Advanced fractional RF microneedling up to 4mm deep. Best for early red marks and body areas needing firmness and deep collagen remodeling.
Potenza RF Microneedling
Premium RF microneedling platform with multiple tip and energy mode options. Versatile for both stretch marks and surgical scar remodeling.
RF Microneedling
Microneedling combined with radiofrequency energy for controlled dermal remodeling. Skin tone, depth, and treatment area are reviewed before settings are chosen.
Dermapen4 Microneedling
Standard microneedling with precision depth control. Entry-level collagen stimulation for early marks, sensitive areas, and patients wanting minimal downtime.
Fractional CO2 Laser
Resurfaces texture and blends color in mature marks and surgery lines. Tuned by density and depth for each body area and skin tone.
Erbium and Fractional Erbium
Water-targeted laser energy with efficient recovery. Full-field or fractional based on downtime goals. Gentler than CO2 for thinner skin areas.
PRP Add-On
PRP may be discussed as an optional adjunct to certain microneedling or resurfacing plans. Evidence and expected benefit vary by indication. See PRP & PRF Treatments for standalone options.
Keloid Injections
Intralesional scar injections may be used for selected hypertrophic or keloid scars to reduce thickness or firmness before other cosmetic scar treatment is considered.
How Stretch Mark and Scar Treatments Differ
Microneedling and RF Microneedling
These treatments focus on controlled dermal remodeling. RF adds thermal energy to the needling process and may be chosen when deeper texture remodeling is desired.
Fractional CO2 and Erbium Resurfacing
Fractional resurfacing is often considered for mature white stretch marks or scar texture when a stronger surface-remodeling treatment and more recovery are acceptable.
Scar Injections
Raised hypertrophic or keloid scars are different from flat stretch marks. Intralesional treatment may be considered before laser or microneedling when scar height and firmness are the primary concern.
When Surgery Is a Different Conversation
Energy-based treatments can improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars, but they do not remove excess skin. When loose skin or a surgical contour change is the main goal, a surgical consultation may be more appropriate.
Outer thigh stretch marks are often wide and mature, responding best to laser resurfacing paired with maintenance RF sessions.
Before & After
These examples show individual patient outcomes. Results vary by mark or scar type, skin tone, treatment used, treatment settings, and number of sessions.
Not sure whether your concern is a stretch mark, surgical scar, or raised scar? Text us a photo or question and we can help you decide whether to book an evaluation.
Text Us a Photo or QuestionWhat to Expect With Stretch Mark or Scar Removal Treatment
Consultation
Before treatmentWe examine the mark or scar, review skin tone, medical history, prior procedures, and healing history, then explain which treatment options are reasonable and what improvement to expect.
Treatment Day
Appointment length variesPreparation, numbing, treatment settings, and treatment time depend on the device and body area. The provider reviews the plan again before treatment begins.
Recovery
Depends on the treatmentMicroneedling and RF treatments usually involve a shorter recovery window than ablative resurfacing. Your provider gives specific cleansing, moisturizing, sun-protection, and activity instructions.
Follow-Up and Additional Sessions
Over the following weeksWe compare the response with baseline photos and decide whether another session, a different modality, or no additional treatment is appropriate.
Want to talk through the type of stretch mark or scar, treatment options, recovery time, or pricing before you book?
Call (844) 759-6757Stretch Mark and Scar Removal Pricing
Final treatment and pricing are confirmed after the provider evaluates the mark or scar. First-time patients save 10% on an eligible single session. Where a Series of 3 is listed, the package price is shown inside Details. Price Match Eligible services remain labeled in the menu.
Not sure which microneedling tier is right for you? This table shows how the four devices compare across the factors that matter most for stretch mark treatment.
| Device | Depth | RF Energy | Best For | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermapen4 | Up to 2.5mm | None | Early red marks, sensitive areas, entry-level collagen stimulation | 1 to 2 days |
| RF Microneedling | Up to 3mm | Yes | Early to mixed-stage marks, all skin tones, broader collagen remodeling | 2 to 3 days |
| Potenza RF | Up to 3.5mm | Yes, multiple modes | Early to mature marks, versatile tip selection, surgical scar remodeling | 2 to 4 days |
| Morpheus8 | Up to 4mm | Yes, subdermal | Early marks, deep remodeling, areas needing firmness alongside texture | 2 to 4 days |
Laser treatments are best for mature white marks and surgical scars. Here is how the three laser options compare.
| Laser | Best For | Downtime | Skin Tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO2 | Thick mature marks, surgery scars, maximum resurfacing | 5 to 7 days | Fitzpatrick I to IV with care |
| Erbium | Mature marks, mixed-stage, efficient recovery | 3 to 5 days | Fitzpatrick I to IV |
| Fractional Erbium | Wide-field body areas, manageable downtime | 2 to 4 days | Fitzpatrick I to V with care |
Stretch Mark and Scar Removal FAQs
Does laser stretch mark removal actually work?
Laser, microneedling, and RF treatments may improve the appearance of stretch marks, particularly texture and color, but they do not guarantee complete removal. Response varies by the age and type of the marks, skin tone, body area, treatment used, and number of sessions.
What is the difference between Erbium and Fractional Erbium?
Full-field Erbium treats the entire surface of the treatment area in one pass, producing faster improvement but more downtime. Fractional Erbium creates microscopic treatment zones in a grid pattern, leaving untreated tissue between zones. This preserves surrounding skin, speeds healing, and makes it practical to treat larger body areas without extended recovery. Your provider will recommend the right approach based on your mark type, area size, and downtime tolerance.What is the difference between RF microneedling and standard microneedling?
Standard microneedling creates microchannels in the skin that trigger a healing response and collagen production. RF microneedling does everything standard microneedling does, but also delivers radiofrequency heat directly into the dermis through the needle tips at the moment of penetration. This dual stimulus, mechanical and thermal, produces more significant collagen remodeling, especially for deeper concerns like stretch marks and skin laxity.How much does stretch mark removal cost?
Pricing varies widely because this page includes microneedling, RF microneedling, Morpheus8, fractional lasers, scar injections, and add-ons across different body areas. The pricing menu shows the current rates, and the consultation confirms which option applies to your concern.
Does Morpheus8 remove stretch marks?
Morpheus8 may improve the appearance of stretch marks through RF microneedling, but it does not guarantee complete removal. Whether it is preferred over another RF device or fractional laser depends on the mark type, depth, area, skin tone, and recovery goals.
Does a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and may eliminate stretch marks located on the excised skin below the navel. However, marks above the navel or outside the excised area typically remain. If you have stretch marks following a tummy tuck, laser and RF treatments can address those remaining marks after your surgeon clears you for treatment, usually at least 6 to 12 months post-surgery.Does stretch mark removal hurt?
Topical anesthetic is applied before every RF and laser session, making treatment tolerable for most patients. RF microneedling feels like warmth and mild pressure during pulses. Fractional laser creates brief snapping sensations with heat. Keloid injections may produce a pinching sensation at the injection site. Comfort varies by individual and treatment area, and your provider adjusts the approach based on your feedback.Can I treat stretch marks while breastfeeding?
Many RF-based plans are possible during breastfeeding with provider approval. We avoid certain topicals and adjust settings to ensure safety. Laser treatments are typically deferred until breastfeeding is complete. Your consultation will confirm timing and any restrictions based on your specific situation.Are stretch mark treatments safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, when parameters are properly adjusted. RF-based treatments like Morpheus8 and RF microneedling are color-blind and safe across all skin tones. For laser treatments, we adjust energy, pulse width, density, and spacing for your Fitzpatrick type. For deeper skin tones, we typically start with RF-based plans and introduce fractional laser once the skin has shown how it responds. Our providers are experienced treating Fitzpatrick IV through VI patients safely.Can surgical scars be treated?
Yes, selected fully healed surgical scars may be treated for color, texture, thickness, firmness, or edge irregularity. The plan may involve fractional laser, microneedling, RF microneedling, scar injections, or a staged combination.
What treatments are used for C-section or tummy-tuck scars?
Depending on whether the scar is flat, discolored, firm, tethered, widened, or raised, the provider may discuss fractional CO2, Erbium resurfacing, RF microneedling, standard microneedling, or scar injections. The incision must be fully healed first.
Can keloid or hypertrophic scars be treated?
Raised hypertrophic scars and keloids are treated differently from flat scars. Intralesional scar injections may be considered to reduce thickness or firmness. Additional resurfacing is considered only when appropriate because keloids can recur.
Serving the South Bay
Visit us at 2573 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite B in Rolling Hills Plaza, Torrance. Hours are Monday to Saturday 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We regularly see patients from Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, Gardena, Lomita, Carson, and San Pedro.
Complimentary Consultations Available Have the Stretch Marks or Scar Evaluated First We can identify the type of stretch mark or scar, including surgical, C-section, tummy-tuck, hypertrophic, or keloid scars, then review treatment options, recovery, and current pricing before you commit. |
Medical Disclaimer: This page uses terms such as stretch mark removal and scar removal because they are common ways patients search for these services. Treatment is intended to improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars and does not guarantee complete removal. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary.
Results and candidacy: Provider evaluation is required before treatment. Scar type, skin tone, prior surgery, healing history, medications, active skin conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, and the treatment area may affect candidacy or timing. Raised hypertrophic scars and keloids require different treatment planning than flat stretch marks or surgical scars.
Pricing: The New Patient Rate is 10% off one eligible regular single session on the first visit. Where a Series of 3 is shown in the pricing menu, that package rate is calculated separately and cannot be combined with the New Patient Rate.
Financing: Cherry · Klarna · Affirm · CareCredit options are provided by third-party lenders and remain subject to approval and lender terms. Skin Works Medical Spa, 2573 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite B, Torrance, CA 90505, (844) 759-6757.