Abstract | BACKGROUND: A 1,927-nm wavelength was recently added to the 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser. This wavelength possesses a higher absorption coefficient for water than the 1,550-nm, conferring greater ability to target epidermal processes such as dyschromia. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel 1,927-nm fractional thulium fiber laser in the treatment of melasma. METHODS: Fourteen patients underwent three to four laser treatments (at 4-week intervals) at pulse energies of 10 to 20 mJ and total densities of 252 to 784 microscopic treatment zones per cm(2) (6-8 passes) using a 1,927-nm thulium fiber laser. Three blinded assessors and the patients evaluated clinical improvement of treatment areas at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups. Side effects were assessed, and pain was scored using a visual analog scale (0-10). RESULTS: A statistically significant 51% reduction in MASI score was observed at 1-month post 3 to 4 laser treatments. A 33% (p = .06) and 34% (p = .07) reduction in Melasma Area and Severity Index score was observed at the 3- and 6-month follow-up visits, respectively. Skin responses observed after treatment were moderate erythema and mild edema. No scarring or postinflammatory hyper- or hypopigmentation was observed. CONCLUSION:
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Authors | Kristel D Polder, Suzanne Bruce |
Journal | Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]
(Dermatol Surg)
Vol. 38
Issue 2
Pg. 199-206
(Feb 2012)
ISSN: 1524-4725 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 22093448
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Copyright | © 2011 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. |
Topics |
- Adult
- Female
- Humans
- Laser Therapy
(adverse effects)
- Lasers, Solid-State
- Male
- Melanosis
(therapy)
- Middle Aged
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