Lesson 1Microdermabrasion and superficial resurfacing: mechanical epidermal removal effects, adjunctive uses and limitationsThis section covers microdermabrasion and other superficial resurfacing methods for stretch marks. You will learn how controlled skin layer removal affects texture, how to pair with creams, and where these methods are limited or not advised.
Crystal vs diamond microdermabrasionEpidermal effects and barrier changesAdjunctive use with topical agentsRole in early vs mature striaeContraindications and over-treatment risksLesson 2Radiofrequency (non-ablative, monopolar/bipolar): thermal remodelling mechanisms, treatment depths, safety in darker skin, expected clinical improvementsYou will study non-ablative radiofrequency for stretch marks, including monopolar and bipolar systems. We cover heat remodelling, depth of heating, setting choices, safety in darker skin, and realistic timelines for visible changes.
Monopolar vs bipolar RF physicsTarget temperatures and endpointsDepth of heating and tissue selectivityProtocols for different body areasSafety strategies in darker phototypesExpected results and maintenanceLesson 3Adverse effects across modalities: PIH, erythema, oedema, infection, scarring — recognition and management strategiesHere you will learn to spot and handle common side effects of non-invasive stretch mark treatments. We cover PIH, redness, swelling, infection, and scarring, with prevention tips, early detection, and step-by-step interventions.
Risk factors by skin phototypeEarly signs of PIH and erythemaManaging oedema and discomfortPreventing and treating infectionScarring: identification and responseLesson 4Intense pulsed light (IPL) and non-ablative lasers (532/1064/1540 nm family): indications for erythematous lesions vs remodelling, parameters to reduce hyperpigmentation riskYou will explore IPL and non-ablative lasers for stretch marks, focusing on red versus atrophic targets. We review wavelength groups, pulse settings, spot sizes, and ways to reduce hyperpigmentation and texture issues.
Indications for IPL vs laser systemsTargeting erythematous early striaeRemodelling atrophic and mature lesionsFluence, pulse width, and coolingReducing hyperpigmentation riskTreatment intervals and outcome trackingLesson 5Carboxytherapy and other subcutaneous gas therapies: proposed mechanisms, evidence quality, contraindicationsThis section examines carboxytherapy and related gas-based techniques for stretch marks. You will review proposed mechanisms, injection settings, evidence strength, and contraindications, plus how to advise patients on realistic expectations.
Mechanisms: perfusion and neocollagenesisInjection technique and dosing basicsEvidence quality and study limitationsPain control and patient toleranceContraindications and safety concernsLesson 6Chemical peels: superficial and medium-depth agents (glycolic, lactic, TCA 10–35%) — action on epidermis/dermis, selection by phototype, risks and contraindicationsHere you will learn how superficial and medium-depth chemical peels help with stretch mark care. We cover glycolic, lactic, and TCA peels, their effects on skin layers, phototype-based choices, and main risks, contraindications, and aftercare.
Mechanisms of epidermal exfoliationChoosing acids by skin phototypeGlycolic and lactic peel protocolsLow to medium-strength TCA in striaePIH risk reduction and sun protectionContraindications and emergency stepsLesson 7Microneedling (manual and device): collagen induction therapy mechanism, needle depth selection for rubrae vs albae, protocols for multiple passes and device settingsThis section details microneedling for stretch marks, including collagen induction mechanisms, manual versus powered devices, and depth choices for red versus white marks. You will learn pass numbers, spacing, and aftercare to optimise safety and results.
Collagen induction therapy mechanismManual rollers vs automated pensNeedle depth by striae type and siteNumber of passes and session spacingDevice settings and endpoint assessmentPost-procedure care and complicationsLesson 8Selecting combinations: rationale for combining therapies, synergy vs additive risks, timing between modalitiesHere you will learn how to combine non-invasive methods safely and effectively. We discuss reasons for sequencing, synergy versus added risk, waiting periods, and how to adjust plans for phototype, lifestyle, and past treatments.
Principles of treatment sequencingCombining energy devices and topicalsIntervals between aggressive sessionsAdjusting plans for darker phototypesMonitoring cumulative skin burdenWhen to avoid combination therapyLesson 9Low-level laser and LED phototherapy: wavelengths, proposed effects on collagen remodelling and pigmentation, clinical outcomes and limitationsThis section explains how low-level laser and LED light interact with skin to affect collagen, elastin, and pigmentation in stretch marks. You will review wavelengths, protocols, clinical results, and key safety and efficacy limits.
Key wavelengths and target chromophoresProposed effects on collagen and elastinImpact on pigmentation and erythemaClinical outcome data and durabilityContraindications and safety limitsLesson 10Topical agents: tretinoin, retinoid alternatives, topical peptides, growth factor-containing formulations, centella asiatica — mechanisms and level of evidenceThis section reviews topical agents used for stretch marks, including tretinoin, retinoid options, peptides, growth factor products, and Centella asiatica. You will compare mechanisms, evidence levels, tolerability, and how to use with procedures.
Tretinoin: dosing and evidenceNon-retinoid resurfacing alternativesPeptides and growth factor formulasCentella asiatica and botanicalsLayering with procedures and devicesManaging irritation and adherence
