What Causes Stretch Marks (And Why Some Treatments Don’t Work)

Woman in black workout attire enjoys her smooth skin following stretch mark treatmentsStretch marks are one of the most common skin complaints — and also one of the most misunderstood. If you’ve tried to fade them with creams, oils, or scrubs and saw little to no improvement, you’re not alone. At Skin MD and Beyond in Plano, Texas, Dr. Fiona Wright offers advanced solutions that go beyond the surface to target the true cause of stretch marks: structural damage deep within the skin.

With over 20 years of experience in aesthetic and regenerative skincare, Dr. Wright designs personalized treatment plans that help patients address the root of the problem—not just cover it up.

Why Stretch Marks Happen

Stretch marks, also called striae, form when your skin expands rapidly, causing the collagen and elastin fibers in your dermis to tear. This leads to thin, indented lines that may start as red or purple and eventually fade to white or silver. Pregnancy, puberty, muscle gain, and weight fluctuation are all common triggers. Hormonal changes, particularly those involving cortisol, can also weaken your skin’s elasticity.

What you see on the surface is just part of the story. The real damage is in the deeper layers of your skin, which is why many surface-level treatments don’t deliver results.

Why Drugstore Creams Often Disappoint

You’ve probably seen a shelf full of stretch mark creams promising smoother, firmer skin. While some may help moisturize and improve the skin’s overall appearance, they can’t reach the dermal layer where the real damage occurs. They can be especially ineffective with older or deeper stretch marks.

Proven Treatments That Go Deeper

Dr. Wright uses medical-grade, collagen-boosting technologies to restore smoother, more even skin. Depending on the type, color, and location of your stretch marks, your treatment plan may include:

  • ReSurFX™ Laser Resurfacing – A non-ablative fractional laser that stimulates deep collagen remodeling and improves texture and discoloration with minimal downtime.
  • DermaPen® Microneedling – This mechanical device creates tiny micro-injuries to promote new collagen and elastin growth, ideal for softening newer stretch marks and blending them into surrounding skin.
  • Microdermabrasion/DermaSweep – These exfoliating treatments remove dead skin cells and promote circulation, helping to smooth and refresh areas affected by lighter or surface-level stretch marks.

Skin MD and Beyond has additional and complementary treatments to best suit your individual needs.

Take the First Step Toward Smoother Skin

If you’re frustrated by stretch marks that won’t fade no matter what you’ve tried, Dr. Fiona Wright at Skin MD and Beyond can help you explore real solutions. She received the ABI National Award for Great Women in the 21st Century in the field of aesthetic medicine. Contact us in Plano, TX at 972-608-0808 to schedule your consultation.

Cosmetic Skin Care Specialist Plano, TX
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