Treatment of atrophic facial acne scars with the Er:YAG laser: a Turkish experience.

BACKGROUND

Acne scars are extremely disturbing to patients, both physically and psychologically. This study assessed the safety and efficacy of the erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser on acne scars.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical effects of resurfacing atrophic facial acne scars with the Er:YAG laser in the Turkish population.

METHODS

A total of 128 patients, aged 22-42 years, underwent laser resurfacing. The patients had Fitzpatrick skin types ranging from II to V. Photographs were taken before and 3 months after treatment. Results were evaluated for the degree of clinical improvement, pigmentary change, and any adverse events.

RESULTS

Clinical improvements in facial skin texture, acne scarring and dyschromia were noted in all patients. There was a 50.2% average clinical improvement. Complete wound healing occurred between 6 and 8 days. Erythema occurred in all patients and lasted longer than 3 months in five patients (3.9%). Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurred in nine patients (7%) and lasted longer than 3 months in one patient (0.8%). No patient experienced hypopigmention. Mild to moderate postoperative acne flare-up occurred in 14 patients (11%). No other adverse effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Er:YAG laser resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment modality for facial acne scars in the Turkish population who have darker skin tones.