Stretch Marks Treatment in Lansing, MI
Stretch marks — clinically known as striae distensae — are among the most common skin concerns patients bring to our west Lansing med spa. They form when the skin stretches rapidly during pregnancy, growth spurts, significant weight changes, or muscle building, disrupting collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis. While stretch marks are not a medical concern, they can cause significant cosmetic self-consciousness — and many patients feel that over-the-counter creams and serums have left them with little visible improvement.
At Maison Zolara, located at 4820 W Saginaw Hwy in west Lansing, our licensed registered nurse (RN) clinicians perform Sublative RF Resurfacing under the clinical oversight of our on-staff Medical Director. This technology delivers fractional radiofrequency energy into the dermis to stimulate new collagen formation and improve the textural irregularities associated with stretch marks. Patients from across the greater Lansing area — including Okemos, East Lansing, Holt, Mason, and DeWitt — visit us for this treatment.
- ✓Sublative™ RF Resurfacing
- ✓FDA-cleared technology
- ✓All skin types
- ✓MD-supervised
- ✓RN-performed
- ✓Free consultation
- ✓Series pricing available
About Stretch Marks
Striae distensae develop in two recognizable stages that matter clinically for treatment planning. Striae rubrae — newer, red or pink marks — represent the active inflammatory phase, during which the dermis has been disrupted and vascularity is still elevated. These respond more readily to treatment than their mature counterpart. Striae alba — older, silver or white marks — represent scar-like tissue where collagen has reorganized in a disordered pattern and the inflammatory response has resolved. Both types can be improved with radiofrequency resurfacing, but realistic expectations differ: newer marks typically show more visible improvement per session than mature marks, which require more sessions and yield more modest results.
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Lasers in Medical Science (Aktoz F, Yilmaz N) confirmed that fractional radiofrequency achieves clinically meaningful improvement in striae distensae with a favorable safety profile compared to ablative laser modalities — with significantly lower rates of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), an important consideration for patients with diverse skin tones. ↗
A 2022 review in the Journal of Clinical and Cosmetic Investigative Dermatology (Huang Q et al.) summarized multiple energy-based treatment modalities for striae, noting that fractional radiofrequency and fractional laser systems represent the most clinically supported approaches for reducing the appearance of both striae rubrae and striae alba. ↗
Clinical note: Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Adatto M, 2023) evaluated fractional radiofrequency specifically for striae treatment in a prospective clinical study across 17 subjects and 67 treatment zones, reporting significant improvement in striae appearance with a well-tolerated treatment profile. ↗
What It Improves
Sublative RF Resurfacing targets the structural irregularities in the dermis that give stretch marks their characteristic texture and discoloration.
Striae Rubrae (Red/Pink Marks)
Newer stretch marks with active vascularity respond most readily to Sublative RF. The radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen remodeling at the site of dermal disruption, helping to normalize texture and reduce redness. Results are typically more pronounced with fewer sessions compared to mature marks.
Striae Alba (White/Silver Marks)
Mature stretch marks represent organized scar-like collagen in a disordered arrangement. Sublative RF can improve surface texture, blend the color contrast with surrounding skin, and stimulate new collagen formation — but these marks require more sessions and yield more gradual improvement. Expectations are set honestly during consultation.
Textural Irregularities
The indented, band-like texture of stretch marks — caused by disrupted dermal architecture — is directly addressed by the collagen-remodeling mechanism of fractional RF. Improved skin texture is often one of the first changes patients notice over a treatment series.
Post-Pregnancy Skin Changes
Striae gravidarum (pregnancy-related stretch marks) on the abdomen, hips, breasts, and thighs are among the most common presentation we see. Treatment can begin after delivery once breastfeeding has concluded and the patient has been cleared for aesthetic procedures.
Body Contouring–Related Striae
Rapid muscle gain or weight changes — whether from fitness, lifestyle shifts, or body composition changes — can produce striae across the thighs, upper arms, back, and flanks. Sublative RF addresses these areas with the same mechanism as pregnancy-related marks.
Adolescent Growth-Related Marks
Striae caused by growth spurts during adolescence — particularly on the lower back, hips, and thighs — are often striae alba by the time a patient presents for treatment. These can still be improved, though the degree of response is typically more modest than with newer marks.
Sublative RF Technology
Maison Zolara performs stretch marks treatment using the Sublative™ RF Resurfacing platform — a fractionated radiofrequency technology distributed by Candela Corporation. Unlike ablative lasers that damage or remove the skin's surface, Sublative RF delivers bipolar radiofrequency energy through a matrix of electrode pins to create micro-zones of controlled thermal injury in the dermis while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This fractional approach triggers the body's natural wound-healing and collagen-remodeling response without the prolonged downtime or hyperpigmentation risk associated with ablative alternatives.
Fractional RF Delivery
Sublative RF uses a matrix electrode tip to deposit radiofrequency energy in a fractional pattern — treating a percentage of the skin in each session while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This fractional approach enables faster healing and enables treatment across a wide range of skin tones, including darker Fitzpatrick skin types where ablative lasers carry higher PIH risk.
Controlled Dermal Heating
The bipolar RF energy heats the dermis — where stretch marks originate — to a controlled temperature that stimulates fibroblast activity and new collagen synthesis. Heat in the dermal layer is the key mechanism behind textural improvement and the remodeling of disordered collagen within striae.
Surface-Sparing Design
Unlike ablative fractional CO2 laser, Sublative RF's energy delivery is concentrated in the dermis rather than the epidermis, significantly reducing surface trauma, wound-care burden, and recovery time. Most patients return to routine activities within 1–3 days.
Adjustable Treatment Parameters
Treatment intensity, pulse density, and energy levels are all adjustable to match the patient's skin type, striae severity, and treatment area. This flexibility allows our licensed RN clinicians to tailor each session to each patient — an important consideration when treating areas that vary in skin thickness (abdomen vs. thigh vs. upper arm).
Realistic Expectations
Honest expectations are central to how we counsel every patient considering stretch marks treatment. Sublative RF Resurfacing can meaningfully reduce the appearance of stretch marks — improving texture, blending color contrast with surrounding skin, and stimulating new collagen in the dermis. However, no current technology fully eliminates stretch marks. The structural changes in the dermis that create striae represent a form of scar tissue, and while significant aesthetic improvement is achievable, complete restoration to pre-striae skin is not a realistic outcome for any treatment available today.
Newer marks (striae rubrae — red or pink) respond better. The active inflammatory phase of striae rubrae means vascularity and fibroblast activity are elevated, making these marks more responsive to energy-based treatments. Patients with fresh striae often see more visible improvement per session than those with mature marks.
Mature marks (striae alba — silver or white) require more patience. Striae alba represent stabilized, scar-like tissue with less inherent biological activity. Improvement is still achievable — particularly in texture and tactile feel — but requires a longer series of sessions, and color contrast between the marks and surrounding skin may improve more gradually.
Multiple sessions are the standard of care. A single session is not a treatment course. Most patients benefit from a series of 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with continued remodeling occurring between sessions as collagen matures. Results are cumulative.
Skin tone matters for safety planning. Sublative RF's favorable PIH profile makes it a preferred option over ablative CO2 for patients with medium to darker Fitzpatrick skin types. Our licensed RN clinicians will discuss your skin tone history during consultation and calibrate treatment parameters accordingly.
What to Expect
Complimentary Consultation
Your journey begins with a complimentary consultation with one of our licensed RN clinicians. We'll assess the type, age, and location of your stretch marks, review your skin tone and medical history, and build a realistic treatment plan — including the number of sessions recommended and expected outcomes for your specific presentation. This is also the time to ask every question you have about the procedure, pricing, and what improvement to expect.
Preparing for Your Session
In the days before your appointment, avoid prolonged sun exposure and do not apply self-tanners or retinoids to the treatment area. Arrive with clean, product-free skin. Numbing cream may be applied to the treatment area approximately 30–45 minutes before the session to minimize discomfort, particularly for larger treatment zones like the abdomen or thighs.
During the Session
The Sublative RF handpiece is applied systematically across the treatment area, delivering fractional RF energy through the matrix electrode tip. Most patients describe the sensation as a series of brief, warm pinprick sensations with each pulse. A typical session for an isolated treatment area (e.g., lower abdomen) takes 20–40 minutes. Larger areas or combination zones may take longer.
Immediately After Treatment
Expect redness, mild warmth, and possibly light swelling in the treated area — this is the expected inflammatory response to fractional RF and typically resolves within 24–72 hours. A fine grid-like pattern may be briefly visible on the skin surface from the electrode contact points; this fades within a day or two. Most patients are able to return to their normal routine the following day.
Results Over Time
Because Sublative RF works by stimulating collagen remodeling — a biological process that unfolds over weeks — results appear gradually. Most patients begin to notice textural improvements within 4–6 weeks of their first session. The full cumulative benefit of a treatment series typically becomes visible 3–6 months after the final session as newly synthesized collagen matures and reorganizes.
Aftercare
Pricing
Stretch marks treatment at Maison Zolara is priced transparently, with no hidden fees. Final pricing is confirmed at your complimentary consultation based on the treatment area size, number of areas, and your individual treatment plan.
- Standard pricing: From $399 per session
- Maison Circle members: From $349 per session
- Series pricing is available for patients committing to a full treatment course
Per session · Series pricing available. Final pricing confirmed at consultation.
Maison Circle members receive member pricing on Sublative RF Resurfacing and can track their treatment journey in the Zolara Care app.
Final pricing is confirmed at consultation. Individual treatment plans vary based on area size, striae type, and the number of sessions recommended.
Am I a Good Candidate?
Sublative RF Resurfacing is appropriate for a broad range of patients. The best way to confirm candidacy is through a complimentary consultation — but the following provides a general guide.
Good Candidates
- ✓Adults with striae rubrae (red/pink) or striae alba (white/silver) seeking visible improvement
- ✓Patients who have completed pregnancy and finished breastfeeding
- ✓Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI with appropriate parameter adjustments
- ✓Patients seeking a low-downtime alternative to ablative fractional laser for stretch marks
- ✓Those committed to a series of sessions and realistic about gradual improvement
- ✓Patients in the greater Lansing area including Holt, Williamston, Grand Ledge, Charlotte, and St. Johns
Not an Ideal Fit
- ✗Active skin infections, open wounds, or active rashes in the treatment area
- ✗Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- ✗Active use of isotretinoin (discuss timing with clinician)
- ✗History of keloid scarring
- ✗Patients expecting single-session complete elimination of stretch marks
- ✗Those with unmanaged diabetes or conditions affecting wound healing (discuss with clinician)
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Treatments
RF Microneedling
Candela Matrix RF Microneedling uses fine needles to deliver radiofrequency energy at precise depths — ideal for acne scarring, textural irregularities, and skin laxity. A complementary approach often discussed alongside Sublative RF.
Laser Resurfacing
Non-ablative laser resurfacing with the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus addresses pigmentation, sun damage, and surface texture with minimal downtime.
Skin Tightening
Sublime RF skin tightening targets skin laxity on the face and body using bipolar radiofrequency and infrared energy to stimulate deep collagen and elastin remodeling.
Vi Peel
Vi Peel chemical peels address surface pigmentation, fine lines, and texture irregularities with a medical-grade peel protocol requiring minimal downtime.
Serving the Greater Lansing Area
Maison Zolara is located at 4820 W Saginaw Hwy in west Lansing, MI, with easy access from I-96 and W Saginaw Hwy. We serve patients from across the greater Lansing area seeking professional stretch marks treatment with clinical-grade technology.
Communities we regularly see patients from include Holt, Okemos, and East Lansing to the east; Mason and Williamston to the southeast; DeWitt and St. Johns to the north; and Grand Ledge and Charlotte to the west. If you're searching for stretch marks treatment near Lansing, we offer free consultations, transparent pricing, and a care team — licensed RN clinicians supervised by an on-staff Medical Director — dedicated to delivering honest, results-focused aesthetic care.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Monday–Friday · 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday
Schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your stretch marks and what a realistic treatment plan could look like for you.
Clinical References
Aktoz F, Yilmaz N. "Comparing fractional microneedle radiofrequency and fractional CO2 laser for striae distensae treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Lasers Med Sci. 2024 Nov 9;39(1):271. doi: 10.1007/s10103-024-04231-8. PMID: 39516426. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39516426/
Huang Q, Xu LL, Wu T, Mu YZ. "New Progress in Therapeutic Modalities of Striae Distensae." Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2022 Sep 30;15:2101-2115. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S379904. PMID: 36213315. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36213315/
Adatto M. "Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of fractional radiofrequency for the treatment and reduction of stretch marks: A prospective study." J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Jan;22(1):214-221. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15463. Epub 2022 Oct 24. PMID: 36229028. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36229028/
Sobhi RM, Mohamed IS, El Sharkawy DA, El Wahab MAEFA. "Comparative study between the efficacy of fractional micro-needle radiofrequency and fractional CO2 laser in the treatment of striae distensae." Lasers Med Sci. 2019 Sep;34(7):1295-1304. doi: 10.1007/s10103-019-02792-7. PMID: 31044363. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31044363/
Page Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical references are sourced from peer-reviewed research and named institutions as cited below. Individual results vary. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any treatment.
The Medical Director provides clinical oversight of treatments performed at this practice. The Medical Director does not author, review, or endorse website content.
Candela® and Sublative® are registered trademarks of Candela Corporation. Maison Zolara is an authorized Candela partner.