Safety and Efficacy of Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Fractionated Laser for Treatment of Acne Scars in Type IV to VI Skin
- 1 May 2010
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) in Dermatologic Surgery
- Vol. 36 (5), 602-609
- https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2010.01513.x
Abstract
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. 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. 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. 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. 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.Keywords
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