Effects of combination treatment of long-pulsed Nd: YAG 1064nm laser with 15% glycolic acid for facial rejuvenation

Abstract

Facial aging is characterized by wrinkles, laxity, and barrier dysfunction, creating demand for minimally invasive rejuvenation therapies. The long-pulsed Nd: YAG 1064nm laser stimulates dermal collagen remodeling, while glycolic acid promotes epidermal exfoliation and cellular renewal. This study evaluated the effects of combining these two modalities for facial rejuvenation. A prospective interventional study was conducted with 15 participants aged 35–50 years and Fitzpatrick skin types III–V, each receiving 3 treatment sessions at 4-week intervals using long-pulsed Nd: YAG 1064nm laser with 15% glycolic acid. Physician Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) was assessed at weeks 4, 8, and 12, while wrinkle severity, skin viscoelasticity, and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) were measured from baseline to follow-up visits. Participant’s satisfaction was recorded at week 12, and adverse events were monitored throughout the study. The combination therapy demonstrated progressive improvements in GAIS scores, significant reductions in wrinkle severity, increased viscoelasticity, and decreased TEWL, indicating enhanced skin structure and barrier function. All participants reported high to complete satisfaction with treatment outcomes, and no serious adverse effects such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, or prolonged erythema were observed. These findings suggest that the combined use of long-pulsed Nd: YAG 1064nm laser and 15% glycolic acid is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated option for facial rejuvenation. By targeting both dermal and epidermal pathways, this multimodal approach offers synergistic benefits and may serve as a valuable non-ablative therapy.