Sustained Benefit After Treatment of Acne Vulgaris Using Only a Novel Combination of Long-Pulsed and Q-Switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG Lasers.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris remains a challenging disease to treat in many patients. Traditional therapies may have limited successes with potential side effects. Laser and light energy devices may offer a desirable alternative.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety in using a combination laser approach with both long-pulsed (LP) and Q-switched (QS) Nd:YAG lasers in the treatment of active acne.

METHODS: Twenty patients with moderate to severe inflammatory acne were treated with LP YAG laser followed immediately with QS YAG laser. Patients received at least 8 treatments. Follow-up evaluation occurred at a minimum of 12 months. Pre- and post-treatment photographs were graded by blinded physicians. All topical acne medications and oral antibiotics were discontinued throughout the therapy and follow-up period.

RESULTS: There was a 81% reduction in acne lesions, with 60% of patients having 90% or greater reduction. Overall appearance was graded at 84% improvement at follow-up. Follow-up occurred at a mean of 22.7 months after completion of therapy. Aside from transient erythema, there were no other adverse effects.

CONCLUSION: Active acne can be treated successfully with a combination of LP and QS YAG lasers with patients remaining off acne medications throughout laser therapy and the follow-up period.