Selective Nonablative Treatment of Acne Scarring With 585 nm Flashlamp Pulsed Dye Laser

BACKGROUND: Selective nonablative wrinkle reduction with low-fluence pulsed dye laser has been shown to provide cosmetic benefits by stimulating the production of dermal collagen. The clinical efficacy for improving the appearance of acne scarring using selective nonablative laser treatments has yet to be established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the improvement in the appearance and topography of acne scarring following application of a 585 nm pulsed dye laser with a temporal profile and pulse duration designed specifically to target healthy microvasculature in the dermis. METHODS: Ten patients (mean age 34.8 years) with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV and shallow to moderately deep, saucerized facial acne scars were enrolled in a prospective trial to receive a single laser treatment of both cheeks. Patients were evaluated at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days to assess the degree of clinical improvement. The evaluation process included assessment of pre- and posttreatment photography by two independent observers, patient assessment surveys, and surface profilometry using silicone imprints in order to quantify the degree of clinical improvement. RESULTS: All 10 patients reported visible cosmetic improvement in the treated areas while surface profilometry showed that, on average, the depth of the acne scars was reduced by 47.8%. No adverse effects of this treatment were reported. CONCLUSION: The treatment of acne scars utilizing a 585 nm pulsed dye laser with a temporal profile and pulse duration designed specifically to target healthy microvasculature in the dermis may be a safe and effective noninvasive alternative for a natural result.