Safety and efficacy of erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet fractionated laser for treatment of acne scars in type IV to VI skin.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Ablative resurfacing lasers are effective for treatment of acne scars, but they have a high risk of complications. Fractional lasers have less severe side effects but more moderate efficacy than ablative devices. Studies were performed in individuals with Fitzpatrick skin type I to VI.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the efficacy and safety of an erbium 1,550-nm fractional laser in the treatment of facial acne scars in Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective, single-blind, randomized trial in patients with acne scars (n=15), skin type IV to VI, with a 1,550-nm erbium fractionated laser. Patients were divided into two groups; one was treated with 10 mJ and the other with 40 mJ. Five monthly laser sessions were performed. A patient questionnaire was distributed.

RESULTS:

There was a significant improvement in the acne scarring and overall appearance (p<.001). No significant difference was found between 10 and 40 mJ. Patients were highly satisfied with their results. Significant postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was seen; pain was significantly higher in darker skin.

CONCLUSIONS:

Fractional photothermolysis is effective for the treatment of acne scars, but practition-ers should be aware of the higher incidence of pain and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in individuals with skin types IV to VI.

• Authors: Bassel H Mahmoud, Divya Srivastava, Jennifer J Janiga, James J Yang, Henry W Lim, David M Ozog
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 36 Issue 5 Pg. 602-9 (May 2010) ISSN: 1524-4725 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 20384757 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Acne Vulgaris (complications, pathology, radiotherapy)
• Cicatrix (etiology, pathology, surgery)
• Face
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Lasers, Solid-State (therapeutic use)
• Low-Level Light Therapy (instrumentation)
• Male
• Patient Satisfaction
• Prospective Studies
• Single-Blind Method
• Skin Pigmentation
• Surveys and Questionnaires
• Treatment Outcome