Comparative study of the efficacy of fractional Er: YAG 2940 nm laser and Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser in keratosis pilaris.

BACKGROUND

Keratosis pilaris is a common keratinization disorder of the extensor surfaces of the proximal extremities. Various treatment modalities reduce symptoms, but their efficacy is limited.

AIMS: The aim of this study is to compare the efficiency of Q-Switched Nd: YAG laser and fractional Er: YAG laser.

MATERIAL/METHOD: The lesions in both arms were randomly divided into areas A and B. Fractional Er: YAG 2940 nm laser performed to area A 1.5 J/cm2 , spot size 7 mm, frequency 3 Hz and three passes and Q-Switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser performed to Area B, 4-6 J/cm2 spot size 4 mm, 8 Hz frequency, and as a single pass. Both lasers were performed in 4 sessions at 3-week intervals. The global improvement scale evaluated treatment responses in dyspigmentation and skin texture.

RESULTS

Twenty patients completed the study, and the mean age of a total of 20 patients was 22.9. There was no significant difference in dyspigmentation and skin texture with global improvement scale between Area A and Area B, respectively (p = 0.078, p = 0.638). In addition, there was no significant difference between patient satisfaction levels after treatment in Area A and Area B (p = 0.868).

CONCLUSION

The efficiency of the fractional Er: YAG 2940 nm laser was found equal to the Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser. Fractional Er: YAG 2940 nm laser may be a new treatment option in the treatment of keratosis pilaris.