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 epidermal removal affects texture, how to combine with topicals, and where these techniques are limited or contraindicated.
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 thermal remodelling, depth of heating, parameter selection, safety in darker skin common in Zambia, and realistic timelines for visible improvement.
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 recognise and manage common adverse effects of non-invasive stretch mark treatments. We cover PIH, erythema, oedema, infection, and scarring, with prevention strategies, early detection, and stepwise interventions for safe care.
Risk factors by skin phototypeEarly signs of PIH and erythemaManaging edema 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 erythematous versus atrophic targets. We review wavelength families, pulse parameters, spot sizes, and strategies to minimise hyperpigmentation and textural complications in varied skin tones.
Indications for IPL vs laser systemsTargeting erythematous early striaeRemodeling 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 parameters, evidence quality, and contraindications, plus how to counsel patients on realistic expectations in clinic.
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 support stretch mark care. We cover glycolic, lactic, and TCA peels, their epidermal and dermal actions, phototype-based selection, and key risks, contraindications, and aftercare for safety.
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 motorised devices, and depth selection for rubrae versus albae. You will learn pass numbers, spacing, and post-care 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 modalities safely and effectively. We discuss rationale for sequencing, synergy versus additive risk, washout periods, and how to adapt plans to phototype, lifestyle, and prior treatment history in practice.
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 influence collagen, elastin, and pigmentation in stretch marks. You will review wavelengths, protocols, clinical outcomes, and key safety and efficacy limitations for use.
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 alternatives, peptides, growth factor products, and Centella asiatica. You will compare mechanisms, evidence levels, tolerability, and integration with procedures effectively.
Tretinoin: dosing and evidenceNon-retinoid resurfacing alternativesPeptides and growth factor formulasCentella asiatica and botanicalsLayering with procedures and devicesManaging irritation and adherence
