For many people struggling with scars or stretch marks, options often feel limited. Creams can only do so much. Lasers may not be appropriate for every skin tone. Microneedling can help, but results vary widely. Clients often arrive at node and needle feeling discouraged or unsure if lasting change is even possible.
Inkless paramedical tattooing offers another approach. Instead of adding colored ink, the method uses tattoo-based precision stimulation paired with professional serums to encourage healthier collagen remodeling in targeted areas. For years, the strongest evidence has come from consistent real world results within the paramedical tattoo field. Now, we have something more. A clinical study evaluating this exact style of work.
A peer reviewed medical study published in early 2025 in the European Journal of Medical Research evaluated a regenerative serum from the same company whose serums we use here at node and needle. The study included 156 participants and paired controlled micro-stimulation with a growth factor–based serum to treat striae distensae, better known as stretch marks.
The findings were encouraging and provide measurable support for what many practitioners see in practice every day.
What the study found
The researchers measured improvements in texture, color, smoothness, and overall satisfaction. Their findings included:
82 percent of participants were very satisfied with their results
78 percent noticed visible improvement
65 percent experienced noticeable change after just one session
72 percent saw improvement within two weeks
Adverse effects were low at 8 percent and resolved quickly.
For a cosmetic dermatology study of this size, these improvements are significant. They confirm that targeted micro-stimulation paired with a regenerative serum can support meaningful skin remodeling.
Who responded best
The study explored which participants saw the fastest improvements. While it noted that newer stretch marks responded quickly, this is not a guideline for paramedical tattooing.
At node and needle, we only work with scars and stretch marks that are fully matured, which generally means at least one year old. This safety standard ensures that the tissue has completed its natural healing cycle before any tattoo-based work begins.
Within the participants whose tissue was considered mature, the study noted stronger responses in:
non smokers
clients between 20 and 44
Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV
Clients with very fair or deeper skin tones also improved, although the pace of pigment blending varied slightly. These differences reflect normal variations in collagen and melanin behavior.
This type of nuanced understanding helps our team set clear expectations and tailor plans based on each client’s unique skin biology.
How this aligns with inkless paramedical tattooing
Although the study used a microneedling style device rather than a tattoo machine, the principle is the same. Controlled stimulation signals the skin to begin reorganizing collagen. The serum supports the process with growth factors, peptides, amino acids, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and exosomes.
This mirrors what we see every week in our practice. Texture becomes softer. Hyperpigmentation begins to blend. Edges of the scar or stretch mark become less visible. Clients often describe feeling more confident in clothing they have avoided for years.
Every scar is unique and results always vary, but a single session can begin meaningful change.
Why clear expectations matter
Online, it is easy to find dramatic promises or unrealistic before and after photos. At node and needle, our approach is grounded in evidence, ethics, and client education. We avoid exaggerated claims and focus on what the research and our professional experience support.
This study offers valuable scientific confirmation of a method that has already helped thousands of people feel more comfortable in their skin.
What this might mean for your scar or stretch marks
Inkless paramedical tattooing may be a strong option if you have:
mature stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, hips, or breasts
surgical scars that feel raised or uneven
scars with darker or lighter pigmentation
older scars that have been resistant to change
textural irregularities that did not respond to topical care
Most clients see the best results through a series of sessions. The exact number depends on the age of the scar, your natural skin tone, and how your tissue typically remodels.
We always take a conservative, skin honoring approach. The goal is steady, meaningful improvement that respects your skin biology.
Curious what this method could do for you?
We offer complimentary consultations in our Milford office. This visit allows us to closely evaluate your scars or stretch marks, discuss realistic expectations, and recommend a plan tailored to your skin.
You can reserve a consultation anytime at NodeAndNeedle.com.