Treatment of melasma in men with low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser versus combined laser and glycolic acid peeling.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet 1,064-nm laser (LFQS) and glycolic acid (GA) peeling have been reported as a treatment option for melasma. However, there are limited data on their efficacy in men.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the efficacy and safety of LFQS monotherapy with combined LFQS and 30% GA peeling in male patients with melasma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Fifteen males with mixed type melasma were randomized to receive 5 weekly sessions of LFQS on one side of the face and LFQS plus 30% GA peeling on the contralateral side and were followed for 12 weeks. Twelve patients completed the protocol.

RESULTS:

Mean relative lightness index (RL*I) of the combined treatment side was lowered throughout the study period, with the maximal improvement of 52.3% reduction at the fourth week follow-up (p = .023). Patient self-assessment was favorable in the combined treatment. However, the mean RL*I increased at 8 and 12 weeks of follow-up. One subject (8.3%) developed guttate hypopigmentation, which did not resolve by the 12-week follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

Low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet 1,064-nm laser combined with GA peeling temporarily reduced melasma in men, but the incidence of side effects does not justify the short-lived benefits of this procedure. This technique requires further study.

• Authors: Vasanop Vachiramon, Sinijchaya Sahawatwong, Punyaphat Sirithanabadeekul
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 41 Issue 4 Pg. 457-65 (Apr 2015) ISSN: 1524-4725 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 25760554 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Glycolates
• Keratolytic Agents
• glycolic acid

Topics

• Administration, Cutaneous
• Adult
• Aged
• Combined Modality Therapy (methods)
• Follow-Up Studies
• Glycolates (administration & dosage)
• Humans
• Keratolytic Agents (administration & dosage)
• Lasers, Solid-State (therapeutic use)
• Low-Level Light Therapy (methods)
• Male
• Melanosis (drug therapy, radiotherapy)
• Middle Aged
• Single-Blind Method
• Time Factors
• Treatment Outcome