At London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, we offer one of the most effective treatments available for reducing the appearance of stretch marks: fractional CO2 laser resurfacing. Using the advanced SmartSkin Performa CO2 system, introduced to the UK and Europe by Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi, our clinic remains at the forefront of laser-based skin regeneration and scar improvement.
Stretch marks can appear after pregnancy, rapid growth, weight change or hormonal shifts, and they often leave the skin looking uneven or textured. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the few treatments capable of significantly improving stretch marks by stimulating new collagen, improving elasticity and blending the marks into the surrounding skin. With carefully controlled precision and reduced downtime, this approach offers smoother, firmer and more uniform results.
Why Choose CO2 Laser for Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks form when collagen and elastin fibres rupture in the deeper layers of the skin, leaving linear scars that may be red, purple, or later white and indented. Creams, oils and topical treatments often produce minimal change because they cannot reach the deeper layers where the damage occurs.
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing directly targets these deeper layers. By creating microscopic treatment zones in the skin, the laser breaks down damaged fibres while stimulating new collagen and elastin. This helps the stretch marks fade, blend and become more level with the surrounding tissue. Over time, the skin becomes firmer, more even in tone and noticeably smoother.
For patients seeking meaningful improvement without surgery, CO2 laser treatment offers one of the most advanced and proven solutions.
Before and After photo gallery
Which Types of Stretch Marks Can CO2 Laser Treat?
CO2 laser resurfacing can improve a wide range of stretch marks, including:
- Newly formed red or purple stretch marks
- Older white or silver stretch marks
- Deep or long-standing stretch marks
- Stretch marks after pregnancy
- Stretch marks caused by puberty or rapid growth
- Stretch marks following weight changes
- Textural irregularities and crepey skin on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, hips or breasts
Because the treatment stimulates collagen remodelling, it is effective for both early and mature stretch marks.
How the SmartSkin Performa CO2 Laser Works
The SmartSkin Performa CO2 system represents the latest generation of fractional laser technology. Its ultra-precise scanning pattern allows the doctor to deliver controlled micro-ablative beams into the skin, treating stretch marks with exceptional accuracy while preserving the surrounding tissue to promote quicker healing.
The laser works through two key mechanisms:
1. Controlled Micro-Ablation
The laser removes microscopic columns of damaged or thinned skin within the stretch mark, encouraging smoother texture and softening the depth of the grooves.
2. Collagen and Elastin Stimulation
The controlled heat delivered into the dermis activates fibroblasts, promoting fresh collagen and elastin. Over the weeks that follow, the skin becomes firmer, more elastic and more evenly toned.
Because the laser treats only tiny columns at a time, recovery is faster, while results continue developing for months.
Benefits of CO2 Laser Stretch Mark Treatment
- Reduces the appearance of stretch marks
- Smooths and softens scarred or indented skin
- Improves texture and skin firmness
- Blends stretch marks into surrounding skin
- Stimulates new collagen and elastin
- Suitable for both new and old stretch marks
- Treats abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, breasts and arms
- More effective than topical creams or light treatments
- Minimal downtime with long-lasting improvement
What to Expect During Treatment
Your treatment begins with a consultation with Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi to assess your stretch marks, skin type and treatment goals. A topical anaesthetic is applied before the procedure to ensure comfort.
During the session, the SmartSkin CO2 laser is passed across the stretch marks using a precise fractional pattern. Patients typically feel warmth or a prickling sensation, but the procedure is generally well tolerated. Treatment time varies by area, ranging from 15 minutes for small regions to around 45 minutes for larger areas such as the abdomen or thighs.
Aftercare and Recovery
Most patients experience redness and a warm sensation for the first day or two, followed by mild swelling. Light peeling or dryness typically occurs between days three and seven as the old skin sheds and new collagen-rich tissue begins to form.
Dr Ayoubi provides detailed aftercare instructions, including:
- Gentle cleansing
- Application of a soothing ointment
- Avoiding sun exposure during healing
- Using a broad-spectrum SPF once the skin allows
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a short period
The skin may remain slightly pink for a few weeks, which is normal and part of the rebuilding process.
When Will I See Results and What Is the Treatment Timeline?
Before treatment begins, Dr Ayoubi will assess your stretch marks, review your medical history and outline the expected outcome. A topical anaesthetic is applied shortly beforehand to ensure comfort. During the session, the SmartSkin CO2 laser is passed over the stretch marks using a precise fractional scanning pattern. You may feel warmth or a light prickling sensation, but this is usually well tolerated. After treatment, the skin typically appears red and warm, similar to a mild sunburn, followed by several days of peeling or dryness as the old surface sheds and fresh new skin begins to emerge.
Early improvements can often be seen once peeling has settled, usually within one to two weeks, as the new skin appears clearer, smoother and more even. More significant changes develop gradually over the next six to twelve weeks as collagen and elastin production increases beneath the surface. Stretch marks continue to improve for several months, with the most noticeable benefits often seen between the three- and six-month mark. For deeper or long-standing stretch marks, two or three treatment sessions spaced several months apart may be recommended to achieve the best and most long-lasting results.
Is CO2 Laser Safe?
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is considered a safe and reliable treatment when performed by an experienced specialist. The SmartSkin Performa system is FDA-approved and CE-marked for skin resurfacing, offering precise control over energy levels and treatment depth to enhance safety.
Temporary effects such as redness, warmth or mild swelling are expected and form part of the normal recovery process. Less common side effects, such as pigmentation changes or infection, are rare when correct aftercare is followed. Dr Ayoubi’s extensive experience ensures a tailored and safe approach for each patient.
Why Choose Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi?
Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi introduced the SmartSkin CO2 laser system to the UK and Europe and brings decades of experience to the treatment of stretch marks, scars and skin laxity. He has performed many thousands of laser procedures and is widely recognised for his precise technique and highly individualised treatment planning. Patients from across the UK and abroad travel to London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic specifically for his expertise in advanced skin resurfacing and regenerative laser therapy.
Before and After Expectations
Patients can expect a clear improvement in the appearance, texture and depth of stretch marks following fractional CO2 laser treatment. Early changes often include smoother surface texture and a more even tone as the skin begins to remodel. Over the following weeks, the stretch marks typically become narrower, softer and less indented as collagen production increases. While no treatment can completely remove stretch marks, CO2 laser resurfacing remains one of the most effective ways to significantly reduce their visibility and improve the overall quality of the treated skin. Older white stretch marks respond more slowly than newer red or purple marks, but both types can achieve meaningful and long-lasting improvement.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
Ideal candidates for CO2 laser stretch mark treatment are individuals who have visible stretch marks that affect their confidence, whether newly formed or long-standing. Patients with good general skin health tend to respond best, and the treatment is suitable for a wide range of skin types, although those with darker skin tones may require a gentler approach or a tailored pre-treatment plan to minimise the risk of pigmentation changes. The procedure is effective for stretch marks caused by pregnancy, rapid growth, weight fluctuations or hormonal changes. A consultation is recommended to assess the stretch marks, determine suitability and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Areas of the Body That Can Be Treated
CO2 laser resurfacing can be used to improve stretch marks on many areas of the body, particularly where the skin has stretched or thinned over time. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, breasts, lower back and upper arms. Because the SmartSkin Performa system allows precise control over the depth and density of each laser pulse, it can be adjusted for delicate areas as well as thicker skin, providing an effective solution for stretch marks in both isolated and larger regions.
CO2 Laser vs Other Stretch Mark Treatments
While there are many treatments marketed for stretch marks, few can reach the deeper layers of damaged collagen where the marks form. Topical creams and oils may help hydrate the skin but do not significantly improve texture or depth. Microneedling and radiofrequency treatments can stimulate collagen but often require more sessions and may not achieve the same level of remodelling as fractional CO2 resurfacing. Chemical peels and light-based treatments tend to offer only surface improvement. In contrast, fractional CO2 laser treatment combines controlled micro-ablation with deep dermal stimulation, making it one of the most effective non-surgical options for reducing stretch marks and improving overall skin quality.
Longevity of Results and Maintenance
The results of CO2 laser stretch mark treatment are long lasting because the procedure stimulates new collagen and elastin fibres, which strengthen the treated area over time. Many patients enjoy smoother, firmer and more even skin for years without needing further sessions. While natural ageing and lifestyle factors can influence the skin’s long-term condition, improvements from CO2 resurfacing tend to remain stable, and some patients choose an occasional maintenance session every one to two years to preserve their results.
Stretch Marks vs Scars: Understanding the Difference
Stretch marks are a form of dermal scarring caused by rapid stretching of the skin, which leads to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres. Unlike surface scars, which often follow an injury or trauma, stretch marks form from the inside out and can appear as red, purple or white lines depending on their age. Although they are technically scars, stretch marks behave differently from traditional scars and often feel softer, thinner or more indented. Fractional CO2 laser treatment is well suited to both because it can remodel the deeper layers of the skin, encouraging new, healthy tissue formation and improving texture, tone and firmness.
CO2 Laser for Stretch Marks – FAQs
How does CO2 laser improve stretch marks?
CO2 laser treatment improves stretch marks by creating thousands of microscopic treatment zones in the skin, which help break down damaged collagen fibres and stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin. This process gradually strengthens the affected skin, reduces the depth and visibility of the marks, and blends them more naturally into the surrounding tissue. Over time, the treated areas become smoother, firmer and more uniform in tone, making the stretch marks far less noticeable.
Can CO2 laser treat both new and old stretch marks?
Yes, fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is effective for both newly formed red or purple stretch marks and older white or silver ones. Early stretch marks often respond quickly because there is still active blood flow in the area, while older and deeper stretch marks benefit from the laser’s ability to stimulate significant collagen remodelling. In both cases, the treatment helps soften the texture, reduce contrast and improve overall skin quality.
Is CO2 laser treatment painful?
Most patients find the treatment tolerable because a topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to minimise discomfort. During the session, you may feel warmth or a light stinging sensation as the laser energy is delivered into the skin, especially in areas where the stretch marks are deeper or wider. After the treatment, the skin may feel similar to a mild sunburn for a short period, but this sensation usually settles within a few days as the healing process begins.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required depends on the severity, depth and age of the stretch marks. Some patients see a noticeable improvement after one session, particularly with newer stretch marks. However, deeper, older or more extensive stretch marks usually require two or three sessions to achieve the best results. Treatments are typically spaced several months apart to allow full collagen development and maximise the improvement between sessions.
When will I see results?
Most patients begin to notice early improvements once the initial redness and peeling have settled, usually within the first one to two weeks. As new collagen forms over the next six to twelve weeks, the stretch marks gradually soften, narrow and fade. The most significant results continue to develop for up to six months after treatment, as the deeper layers of the skin remodel and the tone and texture of the treated area improve.
What is the downtime after CO2 laser for stretch marks?
Downtime is generally mild, especially compared with older laser technologies. The treated area typically appears red and slightly swollen for the first day or two. Gentle peeling or dryness usually occurs around days three to seven as the old skin sheds. During this period, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided, apply the recommended ointment and avoid sun exposure. Most patients can resume normal activities quickly, with the skin continuing to improve for several weeks.
Is CO2 laser safe for stretch marks?
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is considered safe when performed by an experienced practitioner. The SmartSkin Performa system allows precise control over depth and energy, reducing the risk of complications while ensuring effective results. Temporary effects such as redness, swelling or sensitivity are expected and part of the normal healing response. More uncommon side effects, such as pigmentation changes or infection, remain rare—particularly when proper aftercare is followed.
Can CO2 laser completely remove stretch marks?
While no treatment can guarantee complete removal of stretch marks, fractional CO2 laser resurfacing can significantly reduce their appearance. The marks typically become smoother, lighter and more even in texture, often blending far more naturally into the surrounding skin. The degree of improvement varies depending on the age, depth and location of the stretch marks, but most patients experience a meaningful and long-lasting enhancement.
How long do the results last?
The results of CO2 laser treatment are long lasting because the procedure stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin within the skin. As the structural quality of the skin improves, stretch marks become less visible over time. Most patients maintain their results for years, especially when they protect their skin from sun exposure and follow a good skincare routine. Although natural ageing continues, the collagen improvements from CO2 resurfacing provide lasting benefits.
Book Your CO2 Laser Stretch Mark Consultation
If stretch marks are affecting your confidence or you would like to improve skin texture and tone, fractional CO2 laser treatment offers one of the most effective non-surgical options available. To explore whether this treatment is suitable for you, we invite you to book a consultation at London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic.
