The new-generation, high-energy, 595-nm, long pulse-duration pulsed-dye laser improves the appearance of photodamaged skin

✍ Scribed by Eric F. Bernstein

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 2007
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 207 KB
• Volume: 39
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0196-8092
• DOI: 10.1002/lsm.20463

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

Background and Objectives

Chronic sun‐exposure results in five main changes to exposed skin: telangiectasia, hyperpigmentation, rhytides, enlarged pores, and sagging skin. Various laser and non‐laser modalities have been used to improve sun‐damaged skin. The pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) has an unparalleled safety record and an ideal wavelength for treating the signs of photodamage. In this study, we investigate the ability of the long pulse‐duration PDL to improve the appearance of photodamaged skin.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ten subjects with cutaneous photodamage were treated with the high‐energy, long pulse‐duration PDL using fluences ranging from 8.0 to 10.0 J/cm^2^, a 10‐mm spot, and a 10‐millisecond pulse‐duration. Five subjects judged to have discrete solar lentigos or ephiledes were also treated to these lesions using a compression handpiece. Improvement was determined by blinded evaluation of photographs taken before and after the final treatment, and by subjects' self‐evaluation 8 weeks following the final treatment.

Results

Subjects rated overall improvement as 65%, facial veins as 72% improved, hyperpigmentation 65% improved, enlarged pores 65% improved, and wrinkles 62% improved. Improvement was also determined by 3 physicians rating digital photographs and blinded as to which photos were pre‐ or post‐treatment. They rated wrinkles as improved in 50% of photographs, veins as improved in 82%, diffuse redness as improved in 80%, pigmentary alterations as improved in 61.4%, and pore size as improved in 25%.

Conclusions

The high‐energy, long pulse‐duration PDL improves photodamaged skin using non‐purpuric settings. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.