Clinical Benefit of Combination Treatment with 1,550 nm Fractional Laser and a New Wavelength at 1,927 nm on Photorejuvenation in Asian Patients

Abstract

Background and Objectives Fractional laser using a new wavelength of 1,927 nm is expected to work on superficial skin conditions, while a 1,550 nm fractional laser was proven to be effective in dermal remodeling. We administered the combination treatment using 1,550 nm with 1,927 nm in a single session to determine its clinical efficacy and safety in photorejuvenation. Materials and Methods Patients who received combination treatment were analyzed. Two blinded assessors graded the degree of improvement using photographs based on a quartile scale (0-3). Erythema and melanin index were measured on the same spot before and after treatment. Patients' satisfaction and adverse effects were also reported. Results A total of 25 patients were evaluated. Patients were followed up for up to 12 months (4.04 ± 2.78 months). The overall clinical improvement was 2.12 (Pigment improvement: 1.92 ± 0.84, wrinkle and skin texture; 1.66 ± 0.54). Melanin index showed a substantial decrease after treatments. One patient experienced post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which subsided with administration of a topical bleaching agent after six months. Conclusion Combination treatment with 1,550/1,927 nm may provide clinical benefit in Asian photoaged skin which contains a lot of pigmentation burden as well as wrinkles and other aging phenomenon.