title: Laser therapy of stretch marks.
abstract: Striae distensae, better known as stretch marks, are a common disfiguring skin disorder of significant cosmetic concern. Many sources have reported the use of lasers to diminish the appearance of striae. Controlled clinical studies of the various treatment modalities available for striae are relatively uncommon, and much of the clinical data are anecdotal. The use of lasers alone or in combination with other therapeutic modalities can provide a safe and effective reduction in the appearance of both red and white striae distensae. Many of these therapies require special measures for darker skin phototypes. This article reviews the historical use of laser therapy for this disorder and discusses current therapeutic options.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Laser Center of Virginia and Anti-Aging Research and Consulting, Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA. mail@lasercenterofvirginia.com
authors.forename: David H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: McDaniel
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D001284:Atrophy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy; D003240:Connective Tissue Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D004817:Epidermis / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D011379:Prognosis; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014212:Tretinoin / Q000008:administration & dosage
chemical_list: D014212:Tretinoin