Treatment for Striae Alba with Poly-L-Lactic Acid : A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Striae distensae is a common dermatological impairment leading to a therapeutic challenge. Many treatments are available; however, these treatments usually incur risks of hyperpigmentation and bad scar healing related to the phototype of the patient. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) could improve the area due to its biostimulatory properties. Objective: to demonstrate the improvement of white striae after PLLA application. Methods: This was a pilot study conducted in adults with symmetrical and bilateral white striae, 1-4 mm wide, located on the gluteal or abdominal region. Photographs for register of the improve, a questionnaire about adverse events, and ultrasonography, to analyze the skin thickness of the striae area pré and post application, were done before and after 3 and 6 months of the last application of PLLA. Three monthly applications were performed in the affected area, using 0.04 ml of the product retro-injected into the deep dermis and superficial hypodermis at the center of each square. The area is 10x10 cm around 64 squares for application. Results: All patients have described an improvement in the area, with minimal adverse events. Ultrasonography images have shown an increase in the dermal thickness in the striae area. Conclusion: PLLA application showed to be a good alternative to treat striae in abdominal and gluteal area