Fractional photothermolysis for the treatment of acne scars: A report of 27 Korean patients

Abstract

Objectives: Atrophic post‐acne scarring remains a therapeutically challenging condition despite various currently available technologies. Fractional photothermolysis (FP) is a novel concept of cutaneous resurfacing which induces non‐contiguous microscopic thermal injury. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of FP in the treatment of acne scars in Asian patients. Methods: A total of 27 Korean patients (Fitzpatrick skin types IV or V) with moderate to severe facial acne scars received three to five sessions of FP treatment (Fraxel™ Laser; Reliant Technologies, CA, USA), each spaced 3–4 weeks apart. Standardized digital photographs were obtained before each treatment and 3 months after the final treatment. In addition, the patients' perceived degrees of improvement were assessed 3 months after the final treatment using a five‐point grading scale. Results: FP led to marked improvement in the appearance of acne scars at 3 months post‐treatment. Patients' self‐assessed degrees of improvement were as follows: excellent improvement in eight patients (30%), significant improvement in 16 patients (59%), and moderate improvement in three patients (11%). Adverse events were limited to transient pain, erythema and edema. Conclusions: The 1550‐nm erbium‐doped FP is associated with significant patient‐reported improvement in the appearance of acne scars, with minimal downtime.

• Acne scar
• fractional photothermolysis
• laser resurfacing