The efficacy and safety of a 577-nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser in the treatment of postacne erythema

Abstract

© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC Background: Postacne erythema (PAE) is a common sequela of inflammatory acne vulgaris, treatment of which has been challenging due to limited options available and the variability of results for each modality. Recently, a 577-nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser (HOPSL) initially developed for vascular lesions has shown promising results for the treatment of PAE. Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 577-nm HOPSL in the treatment of postacne erythema. Methods: This was a split-face, randomized controlled trial pilot study. Twenty-one patients with PAE on both sides of their face were enrolled. Each subject's face sides were randomly assigned to either receive 577-nm HOPSL treatment (QuadroStar PRO™, Asclepion Laser Technologies) using the scanner handpiece, 1mm spot size, 80% coverage, 12-15 J/cm2, 30 ms, 2 passes for 3 sessions at 1-month intervals, or no treatment at all. Outcome measures such as overall improvement, the Erythema Index (EI), and Melanin Index (MI) from 3 different areas on both treatment and control sides were assessed at baseline, and 1-month follow-up after each treatment session. Side effects including pain, erythema, swelling, and crusting were also recorded. Results: Upon completion of the treatment period, the mean EI was significantly decreased in both treated and nontreated sides of the face (P <.001 and P =.001, respectively). The laser-treated sides already demonstrated significant reduction in the mean EI compared with nontreated sides at 1 month after the 2nd treatment (P =.007). The mean MI of both sides, however, did not show any statistically significant differences from baseline, and likewise when comparing between sides. Patients reported more improvement on laser-treated sides compared with nontreated sides. Reported side effects were limited to mild discomfort during treatment and transient facial erythema lasting approximately 30 minutes. Conclusion: Patients who received treatment with the 577-nm HOPSL had better outcomes with minimal side effects at 1 month after 2 treatments as compared to those who did not receive any treatment. Therefore, the 577-nm HOPSL may be considered as an effective adjuvant treatment for PAE and early erythematous atrophic scars.