Combination of Q-Switched Nd:YAG and Fractional Erbium:YAG Lasers in Treatment of Melasma: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences,
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2017),
25 January 2017
,
Page 1-6
Abstract
Introduction: Ablative and nonablative lasers have been used to treat melasma. We aimed to assess and compare the combining Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (QSNYL) and fractional erbium:YAG laser (FEYL) with QSNYL alone in treatment of melasma.
Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was performed in our Research Center during 2013-2014. Women with melasma and without a history of keloid formation, hypersensitivity to hydroquinone, or pigmentary changes due to laser therapy were randomly allocated to receive four sessions of either QSNYL-FEYL combination or QSNYL alone. All patients received topical treatment with Kligman’s formula. Before laser therapy and 4 weeks after the last treatment session, patients’ skin was assessed for changes in skin color, melanin content, and erythema intensity of melasma lesions quantitatively.
Results: Finally, 21 patients in QSNYL-FEYL and 20 in QSNYL group (mean age, 38.57 [5.60] and 42.60 [8.44] years, respectively) completed study. The skin color had become lighter in both groups (mean [SD] percentage change of 56.95 [40.29] and 29.25 [13.20] in QSNYL-FEYL and QSNYL groups, respectively) with significantly better results in QSNYL-FEYL group (P = 0.006). Percentage of decrease of melanin content was significantly higher in QSNYL-FEYL group (22.01 [10.67] vs. 7.69 [4.75]; P < 0.001). After adjustment for baseline values, the post treatment intensity of erythema was significantly lower in QSNYL-FEYL group (P < 0.001). The patients reported no adverse events.
Conclusion: QSNYL-FEYL was significantly more effective in decreasing melanin content of lesions than QSNYL and led to a lighter skin.
- Melasma
- Melanosis
- Lasers
- Solid-State
- Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Lasers
- Neodymium Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Lasers
How to Cite
References
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