Comparing Energy-Based Devices for Striae Improvement: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND Striae distensae (SD) are cutaneous lesions that are caused by hormones or mechanical stress leading to rapid expansion of skin. Therefore, SD are now a cosmetic concern. However, improving SD is notoriously difficult. Among different treatments, energy-based devices (EBDs) are much more effective and controllable. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to determine the most effective type of EBD for improving the appearance of striae. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The population comprised patients suffering from striae. Different types of EBDs used to improve striae were compared. The primary outcome of the reduction in the width of striae was evaluated. A random-effects model was performed. The means and standard deviations were extracted. RESULTS Eighteen randomized controlled trials were included. The network meta-analysis revealed that after a comparison among the 4 types of EBDs, no significant differences were observed in the reduction of striae width. CONCLUSION Radiofrequency, ablative lasers, nonablative lasers, and intense pulsed light are all effective treatments for reducing the striae width. None of them was superior to the others. However, radiofrequency and ablative lasers may have the highest chance of improving the appearance of striae.