Skin tightening effect using fractional laser treatment: I. A randomized half-side pilot study on faces of patients with acne.

BACKGROUND

Fractional laser resurfacing is a new procedure for skin rejuvenation.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the skin remodeling effect of fractional laser treatment.

METHODS

Twelve Asian patients with acne were irradiated using a fractional 1,540-nm erbium glass laser on a random half of the face twice with a 4-week interval.

RESULTS

The faces were contoured on the treated side of most patients. Statistical analyses of the facial images showed that the skin tightening effect was significant 4 weeks after the first and second irradiation (p<.001 after both treatments).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that fractional laser resurfacing is a possible alternative to nonsurgical skin tightening of the face.