Fractionated CO2 Laser in the Treatment of Striae Alba in Darker Skinned Patients - A Prospective Study

In recent years, the positive effect of fractional CO 2 laser on increasing collagen fibers, and consequently its effect on treating striae has been suggested. The present study aims to assess the effectiveness of CO 2 fractional laser 10600-nm in the treatment of striae alba. Methods: In this prospective clinical trial, 2 treatment sessions of fractional CO 2 laser with 4-week interval was given to 30 patients with striae alba. Cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT) was measured at baseline and at week 4 and 3 months after the last session of laser therapy. The level of improvement was assessed by 2 independent dermatologists and patients after 3 months of follow up. Results: 16.7% of patients had moderate improvement, 63.3% had minimal improvement, and 20% had no improvement. A statistical significant difference was found in median CRRT during the study ( P < 0.0001). The median CRRT levels were significantly higher in week 4 and 3 months after the last treatment compared to the baseline (both P < 0.001). Likewise, a significant increase was observed in median CRRT level from week 4 till the end of study ( P < 0.001). Evaluation of participant satisfaction revealed that 10% were very satisfied, 10% satisfied, 3.3% slightly satisfied, and 76.7% unsatisfied. Conclusion: Striae alba remain a challenging condition to treat. The treatment of striae alba with CO 2 fractional laser results in minimal improvement with mild side effects.