Topical applications are ineffective in treating stretch marks. They may help hydrate the skin and make stretch marks less uncomfortable, that’s about it.
The reddish-purplish colour of stretch marks may be improved by the pulsed-dye laser.[1]
The pulsed dye laser is performed by using a concentrated beam of light to target the blood vessels in the skin, which is then converted to heat. This would destroy the abnormal blood vessels and at the same time, leaving the surrounding skin tissues undamaged.
The texture of the stretch mark may be improved somewhat by fractional lasering.
Overall, stretch marks remain very challenging to treat.
References:
1. Laser Treatment with Pulsed Dye Laser. Baylor College of Medicine. https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/care-centers/dermatology/procedures/pulsed-dye-laser. Published 2019. Accessed September 6, 2019. .
