When drug is administered topically, a minute amount passes through dermis, but drug has not been detected systemically. In epithelial cells, affects differentiation, neoplastic transformation, tumor promotion, collagen synthesis, wound healing, stimulation and modulation of immune response, inflammation, cell membranes, and many other processes. Effect on fibroblasts is mediated through specific binding receptor proteins. Topical application significantly improves clinical appearance of early, active stretch marks. Processes responsible for clinical improvement remain unknown.
Adolescent striae tend to be less visible with time.
Treatment with tretinoin, flash-lamp pulse dye laser and chemical peels significantly improves the clinical appearance of early, active stretch marks. Abnormalities of dermal connective tissue. Disorders of connective tissue. Textbook of Dermatology. Dermatology in General Medicine.