A comparative study of the effectiveness of intense pulsed light wavelengths (650 nm vs 590 nm) in the treatment of striae distensae

Background and objectives : Striae distensae (SD) are a common skin condition that is a significant source of psychological distress. Intense pulsed light (IPL) may play a role in the management of the disease. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of two wavelengths of IPL (650 nm vs 590 nm) in the treatment of SD. Patients and methods : Twenty patients with SD were included. Five sessions of IPL were carried out in each patient at 2-week intervals. Each side of the body was treated with a single wavelength. The response to the therapy was evaluated 2 months after the last session. Patients' satisfaction was also used in the assessment. Results : The reduction in the sum of lengths and maximum width on both sides was statistically highly significant (p < 0.0001). The reduction in the degree of erythema was statistically significant only when the wavelength of 590 nm was used (p = 0.0157). The patient satisfaction was better when the wavelength of 590 nm was used. All side effects were transient and well tolerated. Conclusion : The study showed that IPL is a good option for the treatment of SD and the wavelength of 590 nm was more effective than the wavelength of 650 nm.