A Pilot Study on the Use of Topical Gold and Diamond Suspension Combined With 1,064 nm Picosecond Nd:YAG Laser for the Treatment of Facial Melasma.

BACKGROUND

Carbon suspension with laser irradiation was used for facial melasma, but it produces harmful fumes. Gold and diamond are biocompatible and chemically inert, and expected to act as potent chromophores and microdermabrasion agents, respectively.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of microgold and microdiamond suspensions with a 1,064 nm picosecond neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for melasma.

METHODS

Ten Korean patients received 2 laser sessions using gold and diamond suspension at 2-week intervals. Melasma area severity index (MASI), melanin index (MI), erythema index (EI), Physician/Subject global aesthetic improvement scale (PGAIS/SGAIS), and adverse events were assessed at baseline, week 2 and week 4.

RESULTS

MASI and MI scores significantly improved. EI score showed no significant changes. All patients showed aesthetic improvement by PGAIS and SGAIS. No severe or unexpected adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

The topical microgold and microdiamond suspension combined with a 1,064 nm picosecond Nd:YAG laser appears to be a safe and effective treatment option for facial melasma.