Stria Research Articles

Effectiveness of an Autologous Micrografting Technology for Treating Stretch Marks

ABSTRACTBackgroundStretch marks or striae distensae (SD) are common dermal lesions caused by the disruption of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, often triggered by rapid mechanical stretching. Despite the availability of numerous treatment modalities, from topical agents to energy‐based devices, no single therapy has demonstrated consistent, long‐term efficacy across all patient populations. The pathophysiology of SD involves complex alterations in the extracellular matrix (ECM), particularly affecting fibroblast activity and collagen/elastin synthesis.AimsThis pilot study aims to evaluate the clinical and molecular efficacy of autologous micrografting technology as a novel therapeutic option for SD. Specifically, it investigates the treatment's impact on ECM‐related gene expression and overall skin appearance.Patients/MethodsFourteen patients (13 females, 1 male) with clinically evident SD were enrolled. All participants underwent a standardized treatment protocol comprising microneedling followed by intradermal injection of autologous micrografts, obtained via a minimally invasive procedure. Clinical assessments were performed through standardized photography at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months post‐treatment. In vitro assays were conducted on cultured human dermal fibroblasts exposed to the micrograft suspension.ResultsClinical evaluations showed noticeable aesthetic improvements, including reduced striae visibility and improved skin texture, with high patient‐reported satisfaction. Molecular analyses revealed the upregulation of key ECM genes, including COL4A1, COL6A1, and ELN, indicating enhanced fibroblast activation and regenerative potential.ConclusionsAutologous micrografting appears to be a promising, biologically active approach for SD treatment. It promotes ECM remodeling by stimulating fibroblast function and may represent a valuable addition to the therapeutic landscape for stretch marks.

Sequential Fractional CO2 and 1540/1570 nm Lasers: A Narrative Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence.

Ablative fractional CO2 laser is an established tool for dermatologic and aesthetic indications. Non-ablative wavelengths, such as 1540 and 1570 nm, are increasingly being combined with CO2 laser to optimise the results while reducing the recovery time. A narrative review of the literature was conducted, including ex vivo, in vivo, and in vitro studies, as well as human clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy, safety, and histological impact of dual-laser systems. Preclinical studies have shown that sequential application of fractional CO2 followed by 1540/1570 nm expands the thermal coagulation zone without increasing the ablation depth. At the histological level, the dual protocol promotes collagen remodelling with greater thermal precision. On a clinical level, a combined treatment has shown efficacy in improving scars, striae distensae, skin laxity, and wrinkles, with reduced recovery times compared to CO2 monotherapy. Preliminary data also suggest potential benefits in inflammatory conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa. The sequential CO2 + 1540/1570 nm combination represents an effective and well-tolerated approach in regenerative dermatology. Current evidence supports its use as a versatile, safe, and reproducible technique for skin rejuvenation and scar modulation; however, further comparative studies are needed to standardise protocols.

HYPOKALEMIA AS A HIDDEN CAUSE OF CUSHING DISEASE

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUNDCushing disease is caused by an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary adenoma, and it comprises 70% of endogenous Cushing syndrome. Cushing disease is rare and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis is often delayed due to its manifestations of variable clinical features. Cortisol also has mineralocorticoid activity, and hypokalemia occurs when severe hypercortisolism occurs. CASEA 34-year-old female with a past medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and polycystic ovarian syndrome. She was admitted for the first time 5 years ago for uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and complained of subacute onset of recurrent bilateral lower limb weakness and excessive weight gain. There was no history of neck trauma, gastrointestinal losses, thyrotoxic symptoms and treatment with corticosteroids. Physical examination revealed classical cushingoid features with truncal obesity, thin limbs, moon face, facial acne, dorsocervical fat pad and purplish abdominal striae. She was hypokalemic with serum potassium of 2.6-2.8 mmol/L and alkalotic with a bicarbonate level of 32 mmol/L. The thyroid function test and serum magnesium were normal. She received both enteral and parenteral potassium supplementation. Cushing syndrome was considered and further evaluation confirmed ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome with a non-suppressed overnight dexamethasone test with raised serum cortisol, 24-hour urinary cortisol and ACTH. The pituitary MRI showed a microadenoma (8.2 x 9.4 x 8.3 mm). She was started on steroidogenesis inhibitors (ketoconazole) preoperatively. She underwent transsphenoidal surgery (TSS), and histopathology confirmed a pituitary adenoma. However, she still had persistent Cushing disease post-operatively with non-suppressed serum cortisol, poor glycemic control with HbA1c of 11-13% and mild hypokalemia. A repeat pituitary MRI was scheduled, and a repeat TSS is likely warranted. CONCLUSIONAlthough hypokalemia is not a determining feature of CD, it can be a significant presentation. Hence, a high index of clinical suspicion of the possible etiologies in evaluating hypokalemia is essential.

Associations with the inter-recti distance at gestation week 37: a prospective cohort study among healthy pregnant women

BackgroundDuring pregnancy the inter-recti distance (IRD) increases. There is, however, limited knowledge of what factors may contribute to this increase.ObjectiveTo investigate associations between sociodemographic characteristics, co-existing health conditions and pregnancy related factors in pregnant women before gestation week 20, and IRD at gestation week 37.MethodsOne hundred and twenty pregnant women provided baseline information on sociodemographic characteristics, co-existing health conditions, and pregnancy-related factors. Baseline IRD (gestation week 16–19) and IRD at gestation week 37 (outcome) were measured with ultrasound 2 cm above the umbilicus. Associations between baseline variables and IRD at gestation week 37 were investigated with bivariable regression analyses, and only variables statistically significantly associated with outcome were included in a multivariable linear regression analysis. The level of significance was set at 0.05.ResultsBivariable associations between baseline variables and IRD at gestation week 37 were statistically significant for BMI, waist circumference, parity, stretch marks (striae), varicose veins and IRD. In the final multivariable linear regression analysis only baseline IRD was significantly associated with IRD at gestation week 37 (B = 0.8, SE = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.6–1.0, P-value < 0.001, R2 = 0.384).ConclusionNo sociodemographic characteristics, co-existing health conditions or other significant related factors present before gestation week 20 other than baseline IRD was significantly associated with IRD at gestation week 37, with the clinical implication that for each 1 mm increase in baseline IRD, there was an average increase of 0.8 mm in IRD at gestation week 37. Approximately 38% of the variance in IRD at gestation week 37 is explained by baseline IRD and other included variables.

Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study and Clinical Evaluation of Tiktadi Ghrita Ointment in Kikkisa with special reference to Striae Gravidarum: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: Striae gravidarum are formed with extensive stretching and rupture of elastic fibers present in dermis during pregnancy. The prevalence rate of striae gravidarum, varies from 50% to 90% in various studies among pregnant women. Tiktadi Ghrita, a formulation described in Yogaratnakar (Uttarkhand), aids in the treatment of Vrana, promoting wound healing and alleviating skin discoloration. This study aimed to find the effect of this new topical treatment option i.e., Tiktadi Ghrita ointment on Kikkisa in relation to striae gravidarum. Aim and Objectives: To evaluate the pharmaceutico-analytical study and clinical effect of Tiktadi Ghrita Ointment in Kikkisa with special reference to Striae gravidarum. Materials and Methods: Tiktadi Ghrita ointment will be prepared as per classical reference. The prepared formulation will be assessed with organoleptic characters and physicochemical parameters. comparative clinical study will be carried out in 2 groups where each group will receive respective drug and will be evaluated for their results on Kikkisa. Result: The analytical parameters will be assessed to establish pharmaceutical standardization. The result of clinical study will be drawn from the mentioned assessment criteria. Statistical analysis will be done accordingly. Discussion: If significant positive results are obtained in this work, then it will be a valuable contribution and evidence that the drug Tiktadi Ghrita ointment is equally effective in Striae gravidarum as Karveer Taila.

Therapeutic Options for the Prevention of Thromboses in Cushing's Syndrome: A Propensity-Matched, Retrospective Cohort Analysis.

Introduction Cushing's syndrome, or hypercortisolism, occurs after prolonged exposure to excess cortisol, and can be characterized by moon facies, central fat redistribution, proximal limb muscle weakness and wasting, and abdominal striae. Medical literature points to a relationship between hypercortisolism and hypercoagulability, with higher rates of venous thromboembolism noted. Current guidelines recommend prophylaxis with low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH), but there is little evidence to support LMWH over other forms of anticoagulation. Methods We utilized TriNetX US Collaborative Network (TriNetX, LLC, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States) to investigate the efficacy of different forms of anticoagulation in patients with hypercortisolism, defined by International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes. Adult patients with hypercortisolism and prescribed enoxaparin, a form of LMWH, were compared to patients with hypercortisolism prescribed unfractionated heparin, warfarin, apixaban, and aspirin at 81 mg. Groups were propensity-matched according to age at index event, sex, race, ethnicity, and comorbid conditions. The outcomes studied included pulmonary embolism (PE), upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UE DVT), lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (LE DVT), superficial venous thrombosis (superficial VT), bleeding, transfusion, and all-cause mortality. Results No significant differences in outcomes were noted between enoxaparin and heparin, warfarin, or apixaban in patients with hypercortisolism of any cause. Uniquely, the enoxaparin cohort had significantly higher risk of PE, LE DVT, and all-cause mortality compared to the aspirin 81 mg cohort (PE: hazard ratio (HR) 1.697, 95%CI 1.444-1.994, p=0.0345; LE DVT: HR 1.492, 95%CI 1.28-1.738, p=0.0017; mortality: HR 1.272, 95%CI 1.167-1.386, p=0.0002). With further sub-analysis of pituitary-dependent (Cushing's Disease), enoxaparin continued to demonstrate a higher risk for LE DVT (HR 1.677, 95%CI 1.353-2.079, p=0.0081), and all-cause mortality (HR 1.597, 95%CI 1.422-1.794, p=0.0005). Conclusion Although LMWH is currently recommended as the gold standard for anticoagulation in patients with hypercortisolism, our evidence suggests that low-dose antiplatelets such as aspirin 81 mg could outperform it. Further research is warranted to confirm and replicate our findings.

Combination of short pulse and smooth modality of Er: YAG laser versus short pulse alone in treatment of striae distensae: a split-lesion study.

Despite extensive research, there is still no consensus on the optimal treatment for Striae distensae (SD). To evaluate the efficacy of ablative (short pulse (SP) mode) versus combined ablative and non-ablative (short pulse + smooth (SP + SM) mode) modality of Er: YAG laser for the treatment of SD. This prospective study was conducted on 29 female participants with SD referred to Razi Hospital in 2021. The body areas were divided into left and right side areas. The right side of body areas with SD was treated with SP + SM mode. The left side of body areas with SD was only treated with SP mode. Three months after treatment, clinical improvement was assessed based on dermatologist assessment and patients' opinion. The participants were middle-aged women with SD on the chest, abdomen, thighs, knees, or arms. SD in both study groups (SP + SM mode versus SP mode alone) showed improvement after treatment. Nonetheless, there was no statistically significant difference between the two study groups regarding the clinical improvement based on dermatologist assessment (p = 0.279) and improvement of striae based on patient opinion (p = 0.208). In conclusion, we demonstrated that both ablative (SP mode) and combined ablative and non-ablative (SP + SM mode) strategies of Er: YAG laser are efficient for the treatment of SD. However, we failed to show any superiority for combined ablative and non-ablative (SP + SM mode) compared to ablative (SP mode) modality.

Stretch marks knowledge and attitudes among university students in Vietnam: a study with the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) model

Stretch marks are dermal lesions that appear as linear scars, often affecting women's aesthetics and body image. Although they are a prevalent issue in dermatology, stretch marks have not received much attention from the community, especially in healthcare education. Understanding knowledge and attitudes about stretch marks can reveal public perceptions and misinformation that affect self-esteem and healthcare choices. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes about stretch marks among university students in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 146 midwife students from February to June 2024 using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated self-reported questionnaire consisting of three sections: (1) general information, (2) knowledge of stretch marks, and (3) attitudes toward stretch marks. Descriptive statistics consist of frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and chi-square test were used to describe the variables of interests and find the correlation between knowledge and attitude toward stretch marks. The statistical significance test was set up at 0.05. The findings revealed that 83.6% of midwifery students had correct knowledge of stretch marks and nearly half of students had positive attitude about stretch marks. However, there was no statistically significant correlation between knowledge of stretch mark and attitude about stretch marks (p &gt; 0.05). The study highlights the role of community nurses in providing health education on stretch marks to university students. Educational interventions can help raise awareness, reduce stigma, promote healthier perceptions and behaviors. Subsequent studies ought to examine a more extensive and more varied demographic to improve the applicability of the results. Keywords: Attitude, dermal lesion, knowledge, stretch marks, midwife student

Ancient Insights for Modern Mother’s: Ayurvedic Formulations for Postpartum Well-Being

Postpartum is a profound transition for women that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional changes. However, new moms need to take care of themselves, especially in terms of skin and perineal health. Postnatal (or postpartum) women face a plethora of skin problems due to hormonal changes, stress, sleep deprivation, and body changes post-pregnancy including dehydrated skin, melasma, acne, stretch marks, and loose and sagging skin. Though the perineal area — particularly following a vaginal birth — needs to be kept clean and cared for to help healing, ease discomfort, and prevent infection. This is part of research undertaken to formulate an ayurvedic kit for postpartum mothers for their perineal and skincare. a) The massage powders focus on healing, brightening, soothing, and tightening of the skin. b) Sitz bath bomb, relieves pain and swelling, facilitates the healing of tears or stitches, relieves hemorrhoids or irritation, keeps the perineal area clean, and reduces the risk of infection. c) dual-action soap that exfoliates the skin gently (that takes away the excess oil after the body massage) and cleanses the body. Self-care is vital for postnatal mothers since it supports physical healing, assists in stress management, and improves emotional health. Spending energy on rest, movement and self-care will help new mothers to feel revitalized, less overwhelmed, and therefore have the energy to care for themselves and their babies.

Mini Abdomen Experience: A Novel Approach for Mini-Abdominoplasty Minimally Invasive (MAMI) Abdominal Contouring

Purpose: Our aim is to offer an additional surgical option for patients with rectus diastasis, with or without associated abdominal wall hernias, through a minimally invasive approach with endoscopic surgical correction, presenting a new method for abdominal contouring via minimally invasive mini-abdominoplasty (MAMI). Ideas: According to the European Hernia Society (EHS) classification for RD, a widening greater than 2 cm of the linea alba is generally considered an indication for surgical correction. Recent approaches, such as MILA and SCOLA, are indicated for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of up to 28, based solely on height and weight. However, some authors consider this insufficient for determining the best surgical indication. Despite advances in skin retraction, there is still no evidence on how these devices affect postoperative outcomes when added to these techniques, as they depend on multiple factors such as age, skin firmness, number of passes, applied energy, etc. Consequently, even patients with a BMI of up to 28 may present significant flaccidity both above and below the umbilicus, as well as poor skin quality (thin, lax, with stretch marks), making SCOLA or MILA surgery alone unsuitable due to possible skin redundancy after surgery. Similarly, even patients with a high-positioned umbilicus, moderate flaccidity, and rectus diastasis, who in the past would have been strictly indicated for abdominoplasty, may benefit from mini-abdominoplasty with a minimally invasive approach (MAMI). Discussion: The main objective of this study is to provide another surgical option for patients who would otherwise be indicated for abdominoplasty and also for those undergoing MILA or SCOLA who still require minor skin removal to enhance the surgical result. Based on our experience, mini-abdominoplasty with a minimally invasive approach (MAMI) has the potential to serve a larger number of patients, since most present degrees of skin laxity that, even after using technologies, require skin excision. In addition to complementing the results, it reduces complications, results in smaller scars, allows a better correction and visualization of the diastasis, avoids periumbilical scars, and offers faster recovery compared to abdominoplasty. Conclusions: MAMI surgery has proven to be a safe and reproducible approach for selected women who wish to restore feminine body features after pregnancy and achieve a quick recovery. It yields satisfactory esthetic results due to the minimized scar, preservation of the natural umbilical scar, and improved surgical correction of rectus diastasis.

Negative impact of striae gravidarum in maternal mental health.

Negative impact of striae gravidarum in maternal mental health.

Social media influencers’ transgressions – A multimodal critical discourse analysis of canceling strategies in threaded discussion on body shaming

Transgressions triggered by social media influencers’ inappropriate statements lead to social media hypes. The online public arena in Romania was dominated by a ‘stretch mark’ scandal when a famous influencer (George Buhnici) body shamed women. His controversial remarks urged a wave of outrage in the digitalized environment. Applying a sociocultural approach to character assassination and a Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis, we aimed at identifying how the social media influencer (SMI) was represented in the online users’ comments and how the commenters discursively represented themselves. The main findings showed that name calling, ridicule, social identity denial, and disgracing were the four main character attack strategies present in the cancelation supporters’ representation of the influencer as the ‘other’. In their attempt to protect the body shamer (the influencer) from losing his social capital, cancelation resisters employed minimizing, bolstering, transcendence (freedom of speech), and attacking the accuser (the canceler) as main strategies to represent the influencer as ‘one of us’. Online users adopted three main roles in their discursive self-representation: delegitimators of collective Us, experiencers, and social advisers. In the end, the study provides a threefold relationship framework for the cancelation process triggered by social media influencers’ transgressions.

Effectiveness of olive oil administration on stretch mark reduction in postpartum women

Stretch marks manifest as hyperpigmented dermal lesions that commonly occur during pregnancy. These cutaneous changes frequently cause physical discomfort and psychological distress among postpartum women, leading to diminished self-esteem and social withdrawal. Nonpharmacological interventions, particularly olive oil application, are potentially effective management approaches. This study evaluated the efficacy of topical olive oil in reducing stretch mark visibility among postpartum women in the Karang Mulya Community Health Center service area in 2024. This quantitative investigation employed a quasi-experimental design with pre- and posttest assessments. The participants included 45 postpartum women on postpartum day 6 residing within the Karang Mulya Health Center catchment area in March 2024. A total sampling technique was used, and data collection relied on standardized observational assessment tools. Statistical analysis was performed via the Mann‒Whitney test (p&lt;0.05). The baseline assessment revealed a mean stretch mark severity score of 3.87 (SD=1.407) before olive oil application, which decreased significantly to 1.07 (SD=0.799) after the intervention. The experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement compared with the control group (p&lt;0.001), confirming marked differences in the visibility of stretch marks following olive oil treatment. Topical olive oil application significantly reduces stretch mark visibility in postpartum women. These findings support the implementation of this technique as a safe and accessible nonpharmacological intervention in postpartum care protocols for stretch mark management.

A Comparative Study of Picosecond Fractional 1064-nm Nd:YAG Laser Versus Fractional 10,600-nm Carbon Dioxide Laser in the Treatment of Abdominal Striae Alba: A Randomized, Prospective, Assessor-blinded, Split-abdomen Trial

ABSTRACT Background Striae distensae are common disfiguring atrophic dermal scars. Fractional lasers have been utilized to improve the appearance of this condition. Objectives To compare the efficacy and safety of picosecond fractional 1064-nm Nd:YAG (PS Nd:YAG) laser versus fractional 10,600-nm Carbon Dioxide (CO2) laser in treating abdominal striae alba (SA). Methods Thirty-two women with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V and abdominal SA participated in a split-abdomen study, receiving four sessions of fractional PS Nd:YAG and CO2 laser treatments on each side at four-week intervals. Striae texture, atrophy, clinical improvement, and satisfaction were assessed for each side at one and three months, with striae length and width compared pre- and post-treatment. Adverse reactions were noted at each visit. Results Abdomen treated with both lasers had significantly improved skin texture, atrophy and clinical improvements (assessed by physicians and patients) at both follow-ups (p < 0.05), with no difference between the two. Striae length and width did not change significantly (p = 0.203 and p = 0.558). Patients reported greater improvement on the CO2-treated side at 1 month, but not at the final follow-up. High satisfaction was noted for both lasers. Adverse reactions noted after both lasers include erythema, edema, crusting/scaling, pruritus, pain and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The PS Nd:YAG laser was associated with greater pain (p < 0.05), but shorter healing time of 10.26 days. Conclusion Both fractional PS Nd:YAG and CO2 lasers were effective, well-tolerated and safe treatment options for SA.

Medical Applications of Picosecond Lasers for Removal of Non-Tattoo Skin Lesions—A Comprehensive Review

Picosecond lasers are gaining increasing popularity in dermatology and aesthetic medicine due to their favorable safety profile and a wide range of therapeutic applications. While originally employed primarily for tattoo removal, their versatility has extended their use to the treatment of various aesthetic skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation, acne scars, stretch marks, and signs of photoaging. Owing to their ultra-short pulse duration, picosecond lasers effectively target pigment particles and stimulate dermal remodeling, offering patients a safe and effective solution to improve the appearance of their skin. The introduction of the picosecond laser into clinical dermatology practice marks a notable advancement in addressing a broad spectrum of skin problems.

Harnessing the Power of Alchemilla: A Natural Solution for Skin Health and Dermatological Disorders.

Skin diseases are prevalent and encompass a wide range of disorders with varying clinical manifestations and diverse etiopathogenesis. The response to the necessity of multidirectional treatment is provided by species belonging to the genus Alchemilla, which is used in traditional medicine as well as in cosmetic formulations. Responsible for the healing properties of these plants for skin diseases are mainly compounds such as tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. The aim of the study was to analyze and synthesize the published literature on the Alchemilla species in skincare with a timeframe of December 2024. The literature indicates that due to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, antimicrobial, elastase activity and tyrosinase inhibitory properties of various Alchemilla species, extracts obtained from these plants can be successfully applied in skin rashes, acne, stretch marks, eczema, psoriasis, wrinkles and other dermatological issues. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review of the cosmetic activities of Alchemilla species.

Striae Gravidarum and Its Effect on the Quality of Life Index in Libyan Pregnant Women

Striae gravidarum (SG) are common cutaneous changes during pregnancy, affecting up to 90% of women worldwide. Traditionally viewed as physiological cosmetic skin changes, emerging evidence suggests that SG may impose significant psychological distress and adversely affect quality of life (QoL). This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of SG on dermatology-specific QoL in Libyan pregnant women, taking into account established risk factors, cultural perceptions, and recent advances in therapeutic interventions. This cross-sectional study (January 2024 – December 2024) evaluated 150 pregnant women (aged ≥18) with striae gravidarum. Participants with systemic diseases or using corticosteroids were excluded. Data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire that integrated clinical and psychosocial assessments. SG severity was determined via Davey’s scoring system, and quality of life was measured with the Skindex-16 questionnaire, validated against WHOQOL-BREF. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v25, with p &lt; 0.05 considered statistically significant. Among 150 Libyan women with striae gravidarum (SG), 72% were aged 20–40 years, 36.7% had ≥4 pregnancies, and 64% reported a family history of SG. Participants experienced significant postpartum weight gain (73.2 ± 12.6 kg vs. pre-pregnancy 64.5 ± 10.8 kg, p &lt; 0.001). SG was most prevalent on the abdomen (76%) and thighs (54%). Rapid weight gain (52.7%) and multiparity (32%) were perceived as leading causes. Emotional/social impacts included embarrassment (45.3%), mild self-esteem concerns (29.3%), and partner-related challenges (26.7%). Quality of life (QoL) scores (median: 16.5) were significantly higher in older women (&gt;40 years, p &lt; 0.001) and those with a family history of SG (p = 0.015). SG exerts a substantial negative effect on the dermatology-specific QoL of Libyan pregnant women, with pronounced impacts on emotional health and daily functioning.

Sonographic Analysis of CureJet Injection Depth Consistency After Abdominal Stretch Mark Treatment Using Hyperdiluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite.

This study investigates the effectiveness and consistency of needle-free jet injectors in administering injections at uniform depths, particularly for the treatment of stretch marks. Ensuring consistent injection depth is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes, especially when dealing with challenging skin conditions like stretch marks. A retrospective study was conducted involving 25 patients treated for abdominal stretch marks using a needle-free injector (CureJet). For each patient, 10 injection sites were assessed via ultrasound, and the depth of the injections was measured. The mean injection depths and standard deviations were calculated for each patient to assess the consistency of injections. The injected substance was diluted calcium hydroxylapatite, a well-known biostimulatory agent used for skin rejuvenation. Injections were repeated over multiple sessions with consistent parameters to evaluate the reproducibility of the technique. The mean injection depth across patients was 0.5126 cm, with considerable variability observed between patients. The standard deviation ranged from 0.0326 to 0.2132 cm, indicating significant differences in the consistency of injection depths. The statistical analysis demonstrated that the needle-free injector achieved variable depths, with some injections penetrating deeper than intended, whereas others remained superficial. While needle-free injectors like CureJet provide a promising alternative to conventional needles, achieving consistent injection depths remains a challenge. This study highlights the need for further refinement in injector technology and technique to improve uniformity in treatment depth, particularly for applications like scar treatment and stretch mark reduction. Enhancing precision in such devices could lead to better patient outcomes and increased safety in aesthetic treatments.

Stretching the Truth: Analyzing Pregnancy Stretch Mark Recommendations on Social Media

Background Striae gravidarum (SG) is a common outcome of pregnancy, often leading to psychosocial distress. TikTok has become a popular source for SG prevention and treatment advice, but the scientific validity of this content remains unclear. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of the 100 most-liked TikTok videos on pregnancy stretch marks was performed. Data on engagement, content source, focus, and SG management recommendations were collected. Results The majority of the TikTok videos in the study featured personal anecdotes from social media influencers. Oil mixtures and cocoa butter were frequently recommended for SG prevention despite lacking efficacy. For existing SG, retinoids were the most mentioned treatment. Overall, non-evidence-based approaches dominated both the prevention and treatment recommendations in these videos. Conclusion Most SG-related TikTok content lacks a scientific basis, which may contribute to the spread of misinformation. There is a need for further research on SG, and healthcare professionals should prioritize promoting accurate, evidence-based content on social media to improve understanding and management of SG.

Evaluating CO2 laser and micro-needling therapies for striae distensae: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review.

Striae distensae (SD), commonly known as stretch marks, are a prevalent cosmetic concern, particularly among women, with potential psychological impact. This meta-analysis aims to compare the effectiveness, safety, and patient satisfaction of two common SD treatments: Fractional CO2 10,064nm (Fr CO2) laser and micro-needling. The primary focus is on clinical improvement, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) incidence, and morphological changes, specifically the cross-sectional area of the largest striae. Six randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including 166 patients were analyzed. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. Systematic statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 to gauge the comparative effectiveness and safety of Fr CO2 laser and micro-needling. Meticulous Cochrane risk-of-bias assessments were conducted to ascertain the quality of included RCTs. Both Fr CO2 laser and micro-needling treatments demonstrated significant clinical improvements in SD appearance, benefiting over 70% of patients. However, no significant difference in clinical improvements (Relative Risk (RR) = 0.97 [0.74, 1.28], p = 0.85, I2 = 17%) and patient satisfaction scores (RR = 0.91 [0.52, 1.58], p = 0.10, I2 = 39%). A comparison of the cross-sectional area of the largest striae between the groups revealed no significant disparity (Mean Difference = 0.22 [-0.15, 0.58], p = 0.24, I2 = 0%). However, the CO2 group experienced significantly higher post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (RR = 8.37 [1.42, 49.44], p = 0.02, I2 = 68%). Both treatments are effective for SD, with similar clinical improvements and patient satisfaction. Micro-needling emerges as the safer option due to its lower risk of PIH. Treatment choice should be tailored to individual patient needs and preferences. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes and patient-reported measures in aesthetic dermatology.