A pulsed dye laser with a 10-mm beam diameter and a pigmented lesion window for purpura-free photorejuvenation.
OBJECTIVE
In traditional pulsed dye lasers (PDLs), power limitations and pulse characteristics have compromised purpura-free procedures. This study evaluated a new PDL with a modified pulse structure and a 10-mm beam diameter for purpura-free photorejuvenation. A compression handpiece was used for targeting lentigines.


METHODS
Twenty patients with skin types I to III were treated three times at 3- to 4-week intervals. The first pass was delivered through a 10-mm compression handpiece to target pigment dyschromias using fluences between 6.5 and 8.0 J/cm(2) with a 1.5-ms pulse duration. A second pass was then performed with a 10-mm spot with fluences between 9.5 and 10 J/cm(2), a 20-ms pulse duration, and cryogen spray enabled. Improvement was evaluated by comparing pre- and posttreatment photographs and live subjects 1 month after the third treatment.


RESULTS
In the majority of patients, >90% reduction of fine telangiectasias (<0.6 mm) and dark lentigines was achieved. Pigmented dyschromias improved proportional to the degree of pigment at presentation. Avoidance of purpura with the compression handpiece was dependent on obtaining proper compression before laser emission. Mean textural improvement was 34%.


CONCLUSIONS
The new 595-nm PDL is highly effective for two-pass purpura-free improvement of telangiectases, pigment dyschromias, and texture.
Galeckas
Kenneth J
KJ
Department of Dermatology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California 92134, USA. kenneth.galeckas@med.navy.mil
Ross
Edward Victor
EV
Uebelhoer
Nathan S
NS
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D054025:Lasers, Dye / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007911:Lentigo / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012060:Rejuvenation; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000528:radiation effects*; D013684:Telangiectasis / Q000532:radiotherapy*