Clinical Improvement of Striae Distensae in Korean Patients Using a Combination of Fractionated Microneedle Radiofrequency and Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser

Abstract

BACKGROUND Striae distensae are dermal scars with flattening and atrophy of the epidermis. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with fractionated microneedle radiofrequency (RF) and fractional carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser in the treatment of striae distensae. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty patients (30 female; mean age 33, range 21–51, Fitzpatrick skin type IV) with moderate to severe striae distensae were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into three groups: fractional CO 2 laser only (n = 10), microneedle RF only (n = 10), and combination (n = 10). RESULTS Improvement was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (range 1–4). Mean clinical improvement score of the dermatologist was 2.2 in the fractional CO 2 laser–treated group, 1.8 in the microneedle RF–treated group, and 3.4 in the combination group. Through skin biopsy, we observed thickened epidermis and a clear increase in the number of collagen fibers in the microneedle RF– and fractional CO 2 combination–treated sites. Consistent with these results, greater expression of transforming growth factor-b1 and stratifin was observed in treated sites. CONCLUSION Combination therapy of fractionated microneedle RF and fractional CO 2 laser is a safe treatment protocol with a positive therapeutic effect on striae distensae. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.