Q-Switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser versus fractional carbon dioxide laser for post acne scarring: A split-face comparative study

Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2022 Sep;38(5):465-470. doi: 10.1111/phpp.12773. Epub 2022 Jan 20.

Abstract

Objectives: Many treatment modalities are available for post acne scarring. However, the response to the treatment is extremely variable among patients.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of Q-switched Nd: YAG (1064 nm) and fractional CO2 (10,600 nm) lasers in the treatment of atrophic post acne scars.

Methods: This study included 20 patients with atrophic facial post acne scars graded according to Sharquie's score. All subjects received four sessions of laser treatment with a 4-week interval between the sessions. The study was designed as a double-blinded, comparative, split-face study applying Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser to the right side of the face and fractional CO2 laser to the left side.

Results: Q-switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser achieved significantly higher improvement percentage when compared to fractional CO2 lasers (33.33% versus 17.37% Sharquie's score reduction, respectively). There was a significant negative correlation between the percentages of improvement and the patients' age on both sides and a significant positive correlation with the baseline Sharquie scores on both sides.

Conclusion: Q-Switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser could be a promising safe option for the management of atrophic post acne scars.

Keywords: Q-switched laser; acne scarring; fractional Co2 laser.

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris* / complications
  • Acne Vulgaris* / radiotherapy
  • Carbon Dioxide
  • Cicatrix / etiology
  • Cicatrix / radiotherapy
  • Humans
  • Lasers, Gas* / therapeutic use
  • Lasers, Solid-State* / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Carbon Dioxide