Picosecond laser evaluated in melasma study

A recent study published by the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery evaluated the efficacy of a 755-nm picosecond laser with and without diffractive lens array (DLA) as a treatment for Asian patients with melasma.

Initially reported by Aesthetic Authority, the randomized, controlled, split-face, prospective study examined the laser’s effect on 18 female Asian patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-V with mixed type melasma, defined as melanin present in both the dermis and epidermis.¹

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Over the course of five months, patients were treated with the PicoSure 755-nm picosecond laser (Cynosure) and a fractionated beam on one side of the face and full beam on the other once per month.

Study results demonstrated significant improvement in pigment clearance on each treated side 6-months post-treatment. Meanwhile, researchers found physician-rating scores did not display statistically significant differences at any patient follow-ups. Results also found a lower incidence of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with the full-beam treatment.²

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“A 755‐nm picosecond laser is safe and effective for the treatment of melasma in dark‐skinned individuals. The use of DLA does not provide additional benefit over the flat optics in clearing pigmentation,” writes the study authors.

More information on the study can be found at AestheticAuthority.com.

References:

1. Hobbins, K. (2020, September 24). Study Examines Laser Treatment for Melasma. Retrieved September 24, 2020, from https://www.aestheticauthority.com/view/study-examines-laser-treatment-for-melasma​

2. Manuskiatti W, Yan C, Tantrapornpong P, Cembrano KAG, Techapichetvanich T, Wanitphakdeedecha R. A Prospective, Split-Face, Randomized Study Comparing a 755-nm Picosecond Laser With and Without Diffractive Lens Array in the Treatment of Melasma in Asians. Lasers Surg Med. 2020; epub ahead of print.