Red light cannot be promised to erase stretch marks. Photobiomodulation is being studied for certain skin parameters, but results obtained with a medical laser do not prove the effects of at-home LED boots. Before buying a device, distinguish recent stretch marks from older ones and check what the specific technology has actually demonstrated. [1] [2]
Striae on the thighs, hips or abdomen can make a new skincare routine tempting. But when faced with before-and-after photos and collagen claims, one question should come before price: are we talking about the same technology and the same type of stretch marks?
Red or white stretch marks: why does the difference matter?
Their appearance changes over time, which changes how a result should be interpreted. Stretch marks are scar-like changes linked to alterations in the dermis. At first, they may look red, purple or brown depending on skin tone; later they tend to become paler and may look slightly indented. [1]
A change in colour alone is therefore not proof that a device works. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that treatments may make stretch marks less noticeable without making them disappear completely. There is no single solution that works the same way for every skin type. [1]
What does research say about light-based treatments and stretch marks?
An encouraging result must always be linked to the device that was actually studied. A randomized trial published in 2024 assigned 30 people with white stretch marks and Fitzpatrick skin types III–IV to three groups: low-level 808 nm laser, fractional CO₂ laser, or a combination of the two. [2]
The authors reported improvement with the low-level laser, with no statistically significant difference from CO₂ in this small sample. That does not prove the two methods are equivalent: the study was small, follow-up was limited, and there was no untreated control group. Most importantly, this was not a trial of Eclipse LED boots.
Our guide to photobiomodulation, how it works and its limitations explains why wavelength, delivered power, distance and exposure time need to be considered together.
Focus — the word “light” is not enough. Home LEDs, low-level lasers and fractional lasers are not interchangeable. A study on facial wrinkles also does not prove that stretch marks on the thighs will improve.
How can you assess a claim before buying?
Ask what was measured, in whom, and with which device. This checklist helps compare marketing claims without turning a technical specification into proof of effectiveness.
| Claim | Useful question | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|
| “Stimulates collagen” | In which study and on which area of the body? | A biological mechanism does not guarantee that a mark will disappear. |
| “Red + infrared” | Which wavelengths and what exposure? | Two wavelength numbers do not describe the whole protocol. |
| “Clinically studied” | Was this exact model studied for stretch marks? | Research on another device does not automatically validate the one being sold. |
| Before-and-after photo | Same lighting, posture, time interval and other treatments? | A testimonial does not establish causality. |
| “Suitable for all skin types” | What precautions apply to my skin tone and medication? | Individual tolerance still needs to be considered. |
Can at-home LED devices have a place in a skincare routine?
That depends on your goal and on the level of evidence you expect. The AAD reports encouraging data for certain signs of skin ageing, while also emphasizing differences between devices and protocols. These findings should not be presented as specific proof for stretch marks. [3]
If your goal is a routine focused on the visual quality of the skin on your legs, the Eclipse LED Therapy 528L boot product page sets out its coverage and specifications. In the sources reviewed for this article, we did not identify a clinical trial on this model demonstrating a reduction in stretch marks.
If your main concern is pronounced stretch marks, a dermatology consultation is more useful than buying a device based only on the number of LEDs. Our skin quality and Eclipse devices page explains how the brand presents different aesthetic concerns.
What precautions should you take with LED Therapy?
Follow the device instructions and check whether the treatment is appropriate for your situation before exposure. The AAD recommends considering photosensitizing conditions and medications, skin tone and eye-protection instructions. Persistent irritation is a reason to stop and seek advice. [3]
- Do not copy the exposure time from a protocol using a different device.
- Do not combine LED, peels or other irritating treatments without appropriate guidance.
- During pregnancy or breastfeeding, have the planned treatment checked by a healthcare professional.
- If you take progress photos, use comparable conditions and do not retouch them.
The Eclipse LED Therapy guide covers the general principles. To distinguish light-based treatment from compression, see also LED boots vs compression boots.
Frequently asked questions
Can LEDs remove white stretch marks?
Complete removal cannot be promised. Results from a small trial using an 808 nm laser do not automatically validate an at-home LED device.
How many sessions are needed?
There is no universally validated number for all LED devices and all types of stretch marks. Follow the product instructions and do not increase exposure in an attempt to speed up results.
Does pressotherapy work on stretch marks?
Pneumatic compression is not an established treatment for scar-like skin marks. Swelling reduction, skin texture and stretch marks are different goals.
Sources and transparency
Eclipse sells LED and pressotherapy devices. This article distinguishes published evidence from commercial product features and does not replace dermatological advice. Sources accessed on 24 September 2026.
- American Academy of Dermatology — Stretch marks: why they appear and how to get rid of them.
- Hafez V. et al. — Photobiomodulation versus fractional carbon dioxide laser for stria alba in phototype III–IV: a randomized controlled study. Lasers in Medical Science, 19 June 2024. DOI: 10.1007/s10103-024-04107-x.
- American Academy of Dermatology — Is red light therapy right for your skin?, updated 13 September 2024.
