Low-power fractional CO₂ laser versus low-fluence Q-switch 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser for treatment of melasma: a randomized, controlled, split-face study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Various laser treatments are currently available for melasma but their use remains challenging because of potential side effects.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this randomized controlled study was to compare the efficacy and safety of low-fluence Q-switch 1,064 nm Nd:YAG and low-power fractional CO2 laser using a split-face design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total of 40 female patients with symmetric melasma were enrolled to the study and each side of their face was randomly allocated to either low-fluence Q-switch 1,064 nm Nd:YAG or low-power fractional CO2 laser. They were treated every 3 weeks for five consecutive sessions and followed for 2 months after the last treatment session. Response to treatment was assessed using the Melanin Index (MI) score, modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score, and a subjective self-assessment method.

RESULTS:

At the 2-month follow-up visit, both sides of the face had statistically significant reductions in the MI and mMASI scores compared with the first visit (p < 0.001). The differences between the mean MI and mMASI scores at baseline and at 2-month follow-up were compared between the two treatments and results showed that the reduction of MI and mMASI score in the fractional CO2 laser-treated side was significantly more than on the Q-switch 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser-treated side (p < 0.001). There were no significant adverse effects with either of the laser treatments.

CONCLUSION:

The present study shows that low-power fractional CO2 laser is safe and effective and can be considered as a valuable approach in the treatment of melasma.

• Authors: Niloofar Y Jalaly, Neda Valizadeh, Behrooz Barikbin, Maryam Yousefi
• Journal: American journal of clinical dermatology (Am J Clin Dermatol) Vol. 15 Issue 4 Pg. 357-63 (Aug 2014) ISSN: 1179-1888 [Electronic] New Zealand
• PMID: 24858737 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Topics

• Adult
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Lasers, Gas (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Lasers, Solid-State (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Low-Level Light Therapy (adverse effects, methods)
• Melanosis (pathology, therapy)
• Middle Aged
• Time Factors
• Treatment Outcome
• Young Adult