Fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser resurfacing for skin rejuvenation and acne scars in Asians.
OBJECTIVE
Ablative fractional resurfacing (AFR) is a new modality for photorejuvenation and acne scars which combines carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser ablation with fractional photothermolysis. The objective is to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of a new fractional CO₂ ablative device (Fraxel Re:pair) for skin rejuvenation and acne scars in Asians.


METHODS
Nine patients underwent one full-face treatment. The energy levels ranged from 30-70 mJ with coverage between 30% and 45%. Improvement in skin texture, laxity, wrinkles, enlarged pores, overall pigmentation irregularity, and adverse effects were assessed up to 6 months post-treatment. Standardized photographs using the Canfield Visia CR system® were assessed by two independent observers. Subjective improvement was assessed by patient questionnaires.


RESULTS
Nine Chinese patients (skin types III and IV, mean age 44.8) were included. Statistically significant improvements were seen for skin texture, skin laxity, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and acne scars. The post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation rate was 55.5% and 11.1% at 1 and 6 months post-treatment, respectively. Eighty-six percent of patients were overall satisfied to very satisfied with the treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Ablative fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing was overall safe and effective for skin rejuvenation and acne scars in Asians. However, in view of the high post-inflammatory rate and the statistically significant but only mild to moderate improvement after a single treatment as observed in this study, there is a need to review the current role of fractional ablative CO₂ laser treatment as compared to fractional non-ablative for skin rejuvenation and acne scar treatment in Asians.
Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Nicola P Y
NP
Chan
Stephanie G Y
SG
Ho
Chi K
CK
Yeung
Samantha Y N
SY
Shek
Henry H
HH
Chan
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000150:complications* / Q000208:ethnology; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D044466:Asian People; D002681:China; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000208:ethnology / Q000209:etiology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D054020:Lasers, Gas / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012060:Rejuvenation; D015595:Skin Aging; D055815:Young Adult