Stretch Mark Laser Treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam Seoul
Stretch marks (striae) result from rapid skin stretching that ruptures dermal collagen and elastin fibers. RE:BERRY Gangnam combines Potenza RF microneedling, Pico Fraxel fractional laser, and injectable collagen stimulators (Juvelook, Rejuran) to rebuild the dermal matrix and significantly reduce the appearance of both new (striae rubra) and mature (striae alba) stretch marks.
Can Laser Really Treat Stretch Marks?
Yes — though no treatment can fully erase stretch marks, modern laser and RF microneedling protocols can reduce their appearance by 50-80%. Stretch marks (striae distensae) are dermal scars caused by mechanical overstretching that ruptures collagen and elastin fibers. Treatment works by creating controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body to rebuild the damaged collagen matrix with new type I and type III collagen, improving texture, color, and width of the marks.
Stretch marks occur during periods of rapid growth or weight change — pregnancy, puberty, bodybuilding, or corticosteroid use. New stretch marks (striae rubra) appear pink or red due to inflammation and respond fastest to treatment. Mature marks (striae alba) turn white or silvery as blood vessels recede and collagen becomes atrophic; these require more aggressive, multi-session protocols. A systematic review by Al-Himdani et al. (Br J Dermatol 2014;170(3):527-547; DOI:10.1111/bjd.12681) evaluated 70 clinical studies and concluded that fractional laser and RF microneedling are the most evidence-supported modalities for striae reduction, with improvements in texture, pigmentation, and overall appearance confirmed by objective measurement. RE:BERRY Gangnam combines three synergistic modalities: Potenza RF microneedling (insulated and non-insulated tips) delivers radiofrequency energy at precise depths to stimulate dermal collagen; Pico Fraxel creates micro-columns of ablation that trigger the wound-healing cascade; and injectable collagen stimulators (Juvelook PLLA + HA, Rejuran polynucleotides) provide the biological building blocks for new collagen synthesis. This three-pronged approach addresses the structural, textural, and biological aspects of striae simultaneously.
Stretch Mark Treatment Before & After
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Multiple sessions shown.
How Stretch Mark Laser Treatment Works
Our multi-modal protocol addresses striae from three angles for maximum improvement.
1. Assessment & Classification
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu examines your stretch marks under Wood’s lamp and dermoscopy to classify them as striae rubra (new, red/pink, inflamed) or striae alba (mature, white/silvery, atrophic). Striae rubra respond faster — often 3-4 sessions. Striae alba require 5-8 sessions. Location, width, depth, and skin type are documented to design a personalized protocol.
2. Topical Numbing & Preparation
Topical lidocaine cream (4-5%) is applied to the treatment area for 30-45 minutes. The area is then cleansed and prepped. For body areas, larger zones may be treated using grid markings to ensure uniform coverage.
3. Multi-Modal Energy & Injection
Step 1: Potenza RF microneedling with insulated tip delivers RF energy at 1.5-3.5 mm depth along each striae. Step 2: Pico Fraxel creates fractional micro-columns of ablation at 500-700 mJ for texture resurfacing. Step 3: Juvelook (PLLA + HA) or Rejuran (polynucleotides) is injected directly into the striae to provide collagen-building substrate. The entire session takes 45-90 minutes depending on area size.
4. Aftercare & Course Planning
Soothing cream and LED therapy are applied post-treatment. Mild redness and micro-crusting resolve within 3-5 days. Sessions are spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Most patients complete 4-6 sessions for striae rubra or 6-8 sessions for striae alba. Progress photos are taken at each visit to document improvement.
What to Expect from Stretch Mark Treatment
- Multi-Modal Approach: RF microneedling + fractional laser + injectables address structure, texture, and biology simultaneously.
- Both New & Old Marks: Effective for both striae rubra (red/pink) and striae alba (white/silvery) stretch marks.
- Any Body Area: Abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms, lower back — all areas treatable.
- Clinically Proven: Fractional laser and RF microneedling are the most evidence-supported modalities for striae (Al-Himdani et al., Br J Dermatol 2014).
- Minimal Downtime: 3-5 days of mild redness and micro-crusting. No activity restrictions after day 1.
- Progressive Improvement: Each session builds on the previous one. 50-80% improvement achievable over a full course.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Session 1 | Initial micro-injury cascade triggered. Mild redness and micro-crusting for 3-5 days. |
| Session 2-3 | Early collagen remodeling begins. Striae texture starts to improve. Red marks begin to fade. |
| Session 4-5 | Visible improvement in width, depth, and color of stretch marks. Skin texture smoother. |
| Session 6-8 | Maximum improvement achieved for mature striae. 50-80% reduction in appearance. |
| Month 3 post-final | Collagen maturation continues. Final results assessed. Maintenance sessions as needed. |
Stretch Mark Treatment Options Compared
| Feature | Potenza RF + Pico Fraxel (RE:BERRY) | CO2 Fractional Laser | Topical Creams | Microdermabrasion | PRP Alone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | RF remodeling + fractional ablation + collagen injection | Thermal ablation columns | Surface hydration | Mechanical exfoliation | Growth factors |
| Depth Reached | 1.5-3.5 mm (dermal) | 0.5-2 mm | Epidermis only | Epidermis only | Injection-dependent |
| Evidence Level | Strong (systematic review) | Moderate | Weak | Weak | Emerging |
| Sessions Needed | 4-8 | 3-6 | Continuous use | 6-10 | 4-8 |
| Downtime | 3-5 days (mild) | 5-10 days | None | None | 1-2 days |
| Striae Alba Efficacy | Good (50-80%) | Moderate (30-50%) | Minimal | Minimal | Moderate |
| Skin Type Safety | All types (I-VI) | Caution types IV-VI | All types | All types | All types |
Stretch Mark Treatment Packages at RE:BERRY Gangnam
All prices exclude VAT. Non-covered medical service.
Potenza + Juvelook Single Session
- Potenza RF microneedling (insulated tip)
- Juvelook or Exosome injection
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu
Stretch Mark Reduction Course (5 Sessions)
- 5x Potenza RF microneedling sessions
- 5x Pico Fraxel sessions
- 3x Juvelook injections
- LDM aftercare each session
- Progress photography
Rejuran 2cc Add-On
- Rejuran polynucleotide 2cc injection
- Enhanced collagen stimulation
- Can combine with any stretch mark session
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- CEO, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Medical Director, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Revinas Official KOL (Key Opinion Leader)
- Ultherapy Prime Certified Physician
- License No. 131644
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Stretch Mark Treatment
Peer-reviewed evidence on laser and RF-based approaches to striae distensae.
Pathophysiology of Stretch Marks
Striae distensae develop when mechanical stress exceeds the tensile strength of the dermis, causing rupture of collagen and elastin fibers along with damage to the dermal extracellular matrix. In striae rubra, inflammatory infiltrate and increased vascularity produce the characteristic red/pink color. As the marks mature into striae alba, inflammation subsides and the dermis becomes thin and atrophic with disorganized, sparse collagen bundles. Watson et al. (Br J Dermatol 1998;138(6):931-7; DOI:10.1046/j.1365-2133.1998.02260.x) demonstrated that striae alba contain significantly reduced levels of elastin and fibrillin compared to uninvolved skin.
RF Microneedling for Striae
RF microneedling (Potenza) creates controlled dermal wounds via insulated or non-insulated microneedles that deliver radiofrequency energy at precise depths (1.5-3.5 mm). This dual mechanism — mechanical micro-injury plus thermal coagulation — triggers robust neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis. Manuskiatti et al. (Lasers Surg Med 2019;51(8):671-680; DOI:10.1002/lsm.23099) demonstrated that fractional RF microneedling produced statistically significant improvement in striae alba appearance at 3 months, with histological evidence of increased dermal collagen density.
Fractional Laser for Striae
Fractional lasers (ablative and non-ablative) create arrays of microscopic treatment zones within the stretch mark tissue, leaving intervening tissue intact for rapid healing. Bak et al. (Dermatol Surg 2009;35(7):1066-73; DOI:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2009.01195.x) reported 25-75% improvement in striae alba following fractional CO2 laser, with histological confirmation of new collagen formation. Pico fraxel uses ultra-short picosecond pulses to create laser-induced optical breakdown (LIOB) — creating vacuoles in the dermis that stimulate collagen remodeling with less thermal damage and faster recovery than traditional ablative lasers.
Injectable Collagen Stimulators
Juvelook (PLLA + HA hybrid) and Rejuran (polynucleotide) injections provide biological building blocks for new collagen synthesis. PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) stimulates type I collagen production over 3-6 months (Vleggaar D et al., J Drugs Dermatol 2014). Polynucleotides from Rejuran activate fibroblast proliferation and enhance wound healing through purine/pyrimidine salvage pathways. Injecting these directly into striae tissue during RF/laser sessions amplifies the collagen response.
References: Al-Himdani S et al. Br J Dermatol 2014;170(3):527-547 (DOI:10.1111/bjd.12681) | Watson RE et al. Br J Dermatol 1998;138(6):931-7 (DOI:10.1046/j.1365-2133.1998.02260.x) | Manuskiatti W et al. Lasers Surg Med 2019;51(8):671-680 (DOI:10.1002/lsm.23099) | Bak H et al. Dermatol Surg 2009;35(7):1066-73 (DOI:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2009.01195.x)
[1] doi:10.1111/jocd.13752 | [2] doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000001577 | [3] doi:10.1080/14764172.2021.1950247
What Patients Say About Stretch Mark Treatment
“After my second pregnancy, I had deep stretch marks across my abdomen. After 5 sessions of Potenza + Pico Fraxel at RE:BERRY, the marks are about 70% improved. I can wear a bikini again with confidence.”
“I had old white stretch marks on my thighs from teenage growth. I was told they were untreatable. Dr. Ryu said it would take more sessions but it was possible — after 6 sessions, the improvement is visible even in photos.”
“The Juvelook injection into the stretch marks made a noticeable difference compared to laser alone. By session 4, the texture was significantly smoother and the color was fading.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Stretch Mark Laser Treatment
Expert answers from Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu on stretch mark reduction at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
A single Potenza + Juvelook session starts at ₩490,000. The 5-session Stretch Mark Reduction Course (Potenza + Pico Fraxel + Juvelook) is ₩2,200,000. Rejuran 2cc add-on is ₩240,000 per session. All prices exclude VAT.
No treatment can fully erase stretch marks — they are dermal scars. However, modern multi-modal protocols can reduce their appearance by 50-80% in most patients, significantly improving texture, color, and width. Results depend on striae type (rubra vs alba), location, and number of sessions.
Striae rubra (red/pink, new): typically 3-5 sessions. Striae alba (white/silvery, old): typically 5-8 sessions. Sessions are spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Progress is assessed with photography at each visit.
Topical numbing cream is applied for 30-45 minutes before treatment. Most patients rate discomfort at 3-4 on a 10-point scale. Potenza RF microneedling feels like rapid pinpricks with warmth; Pico Fraxel feels like tiny snapping sensations.
Mild redness and micro-crusting last 3-5 days. You can shower the next day but should avoid swimming pools and saunas for 5-7 days. No significant activity restrictions.
Yes. Common areas include abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms, and lower back. The protocol is adjusted for each area based on skin thickness and striae depth.
Yes, though striae alba (white/mature marks) require more sessions (5-8) compared to striae rubra (3-5). The multi-modal approach — RF microneedling + fractional laser + injectable collagen stimulators — is specifically designed to rebuild atrophic dermal tissue in mature marks.
Topical numbing cream and Potenza RF microneedling are generally considered safe during breastfeeding. However, we recommend discussing timing with your OB/GYN. Certain injectables may be deferred until after breastfeeding is complete.
Potenza is an RF microneedling device that delivers radiofrequency energy through insulated or non-insulated microneedles at adjustable depths (0.5-3.5 mm). The combination of mechanical micro-injury and thermal energy creates a powerful collagen-stimulating effect.
Pico Fraxel uses ultra-short picosecond laser pulses in a fractional pattern to create laser-induced optical breakdown (LIOB) within the dermis. These micro-vacuoles stimulate collagen remodeling with less thermal damage and faster recovery than traditional ablative lasers.
Juvelook contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and hyaluronic acid (HA). PLLA is a proven collagen stimulator that triggers type I collagen synthesis over 3-6 months. Injecting it directly into stretch mark tissue provides the biological substrate for new collagen where it is needed most.
Yes. Potenza RF microneedling and Rejuran/Juvelook injections are safe for all skin types (Fitzpatrick I-VI). Pico Fraxel is also safe for darker skin types due to its ultra-short pulse duration and non-thermal mechanism. CO2 ablative lasers carry higher PIH risk for types IV-VI, which is why we prefer Pico Fraxel.
Yes. Many patients combine stretch mark treatment with body contouring (Onda) for overall body reshaping, or with skin boosters for hydration and glow. Dr. Ryu can design a comprehensive body treatment plan.
We recommend waiting at least 3-6 months postpartum and after completing breastfeeding before starting an aggressive striae protocol. However, topical care and gentle treatments can begin earlier. The sooner you treat (while marks are still red), the better the response.
Stretch marks form when the skin is stretched beyond its elastic limit, rupturing dermal collagen and elastin fibers. Common causes include pregnancy, rapid weight gain/loss, puberty growth spurts, bodybuilding, and prolonged corticosteroid use.
Topical creams can moisturize and slightly improve the surface appearance but cannot reach the dermal layer where the actual damage exists. Clinical evidence for topical treatments is weak (Al-Himdani et al., Br J Dermatol 2014). Energy-based devices (RF, laser) are the only modalities with strong evidence for structural improvement.
Stretch mark treatment requires multiple sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart, which is not ideal for short visits. However, we can perform an intensive single-session protocol (Potenza + Pico Fraxel + Juvelook) and provide a treatment plan to continue at home. For longer stays, we accommodate flexible scheduling.
All treatments at RE:BERRY Gangnam are performed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu (Medical Director, License #131644) or Dr. Yejin Oh (License #144238). Laser and RF device operation is never delegated to nurses or technicians.
Striae rubra (red/new): 60-80% improvement in color, width, and texture over 4-5 sessions. Striae alba (white/old): 40-60% improvement over 6-8 sessions. Individual results vary based on mark severity, location, and skin type.
Before: clean skin, no active skin infections, discontinue retinoids 48 hours prior. After: gentle moisturizer, SPF 30+ on exposed areas, avoid pools/saunas 5-7 days. Keep the area clean and hydrated.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Ready to Reduce Your Stretch Marks?
Book your stretch mark consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu at RE:BERRY Gangnam — 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10, open 365 days.
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- ✓ Gangnam Station area, Seoul
- ✓ No downtime treatments available
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- ✓ Current promotion pricing available