How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks: What Actually Works in 2026

Stretch marks are one of the most common visible skin concerns, among both men and women, and they are also among the most frustrating and difficult to treat. While there is no shortage of topical products or stretch mark creams that claim to get rid of stretch marks, most are ineffective, unreliable, and expensive. It’s important to understand, first and foremost, that there is no true solution to remove stretch marks — apart from cosmetic surgery — but professional skin treatments can dramatically reduce their appearance and finally give you back the confidence you deserve. 

At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, dermatologist and aesthetic specialist Dr. Debra L. Grayman is proud to help patients finally feel comfortable showing off smoother, clearer skin with professional stretch mark treatment in Orlando, FL. We use Alma’s Hybrid® and Opus Plasma® resurfacing technologies, each designed for a specific purpose in stimulating tissue remodeling, collagen production, and more. Take a closer look here at the science behind skin resurfacing for stretch marks to better understand how and why these advanced systems are far superior compared to over-the-counter stretch mark products and devices. 

 

What causes stretch marks? 

Stretch marks develop when the skin stretches more rapidly than its supporting structures can accommodate. This causes tiny tears in the dermis, which is the deeper layer of the skin responsible for strength and elasticity. As the skin heals, visible streaks or lines may form. Stretch marks can occur in people of almost all ages and body types and are commonly associated with:  

• Pregnancy 
• Rapid weight gain 
• Rapid weight loss 
• Growth spurts during puberty 
• Muscle-building and bodybuilding 
• Hormonal changes 
• Certain medical conditions 
• Genetics 

Stretch marks may initially appear red, purple, or pink before gradually fading to a lighter color over time. However, even older stretch marks often remain visible without treatment. 

 

Does anything really work for stretch marks? 

While no treatment can erase stretch marks, professional plasma and laser skin resurfacing procedures can significantly improve their appearance. Unlike topical creams that sit on the surface of the skin, advanced resurfacing technologies work deeper within the skin to stimulate collagen remodeling and tissue regeneration. This process can help soften the texture of stretch marks, improve skin tone uniformity, and make stretch marks less noticeable. Most patients achieve the best results possible through a customized treatment plan that may include multiple sessions, depending on the age, severity, and location of their stretch marks. Setting realistic expectations is important, but many patients are pleasantly surprised by how dramatically professional treatment can improve their skin. 

 

Do I need plasma vs. laser skin resurfacing for stretch marks — or both? 

The answer depends on the characteristics of your stretch marks and your overall treatment goals. At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, Dr. Grayman may recommend Alma's Hybrid technology, Opus Plasma resurfacing, or a combination approach based on your unique needs. Hybrid combines ablative and non-ablative laser technologies to target skin remodeling at multiple levels, while Opus Plasma uses radiofrequency plasma energy to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. 

In some cases, one treatment may be sufficient, while other patients may benefit from combining technologies to address both texture and pigmentation concerns. During your consultation, your skin will be carefully evaluated to determine the appropriate treatment strategy. 

 

Why do professional skin treatments for stretch marks work better than other options? 

One of the biggest reasons professional treatments outperform over-the-counter products is their ability to reach the deeper layers of the skin where stretch marks originate. Most creams, oils, and serums primarily affect the skin's surface and are unable to meaningfully remodel damaged collagen. Professional skin resurfacing treatments work by creating controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body's natural healing response and encourage new collagen formation. Benefits of professional stretch mark treatment may include:  

• Smoother skin texture 
• Improved skin tone 
• Reduced visibility of stretch marks 
• Increased collagen production 
• Long-lasting results 
• Customized treatment plans 

Because these treatments address the underlying structural changes associated with stretch marks, they can produce results that topical products simply cannot achieve. 

 

Can I keep using stretch mark cream while I’m getting skin resurfacing treatments? 

In many cases, patients can continue using certain skincare products while undergoing professional stretch mark treatment, but this should always be discussed with their provider. Depending on the specific ingredients in a stretch mark cream, temporary adjustments may be recommended before or after treatment sessions to minimize irritation and support proper healing. During your consultation and treatment process, our team will review your current skincare routine and provide personalized guidance on which products can be continued and which should be paused. 

 

Will stretch marks come back if I stop treatment? 

Once stretch marks have formed, they are considered lasting changes in the skin. Professional treatments can improve their appearance significantly, but they cannot prevent new stretch marks from developing if the skin experiences additional rapid stretching. Pregnancy, major weight fluctuations, muscle growth, and hormonal changes may all contribute to the formation of new stretch marks over time. Maintaining a stable weight, following a healthy lifestyle, and protecting overall skin health may help reduce the likelihood of developing additional stretch marks, but ongoing treatment is not typically required to maintain improvements achieved in existing stretch marks. 

 

Say goodbye to stretch marks the professional way with laser skin resurfacing in Orlando, FL 

If you're tired of wasting time and money on creams and products that promise unrealistic results, it may be time to explore professional stretch mark treatment. At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, Dr. Debra L. Grayman offers advanced stretch mark reduction using Alma's Hybrid and Opus Plasma resurfacing technologies to help patients achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin. Contact our Orlando, FL office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for reducing the appearance of stretch marks with customized skin resurfacing treatment.