Evaluation of efficacy and side effects of fractional mode q-switched ruby laser 694 nm for facial rejuvenation in Asians

Abstract

Facial skin rejuvenation remains an extremely popular elective procedure for treatment of ageing skin. Ablative approach has potential complications and prolonged down time, therefore, non-ablative lasers were developed to avoid these problematic and uncomfortable sequelae. Fractional mode Q-switch Ruby Laser (QSRL) have high peak power and utilize also the fractional photothermolysis principle to achieve facial rejuvenation. Objectives: To evaluate the resurfacing capability of the fractional mode QSRL in Asian skin. Materials and Methods: 24 Thai volunteers with different grades of photo-damaged facial skin and post acne scarring, complete 3 sessions of non-ablative resurfacing of the whole face by 690 nm fractional QSRL at 4 weeks interval. Subjective evaluations include photographs, Patient Global Satisfactory score, and Global Improvement score. However, objective evaluation were also done by using Mexameter, MX18, and Visioscan® VC 98. Results: There is significant improvement in the dyschromia as measured by Mexameter, MX18 (P value .002). Patient Global Satisfactory score shows 80% have good to excellent response. No side effects like postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) were detected. Conclusions: Fractional mode QSRL have resurfacing capability that can targets major features of photodamaged facial skin in Asians, with little downtime, and adverse effects.