A Novel Macrophage-Activating Gel Improves Healing and Skin Quality After CO2 Laser Resurfacing of the Chest.

BACKGROUND: After laser resurfacing, it is imperative that an appropriate postoperative regimen is followed for optimal wound healing. There is currently no consensus about which agents should be used.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel macrophage-activating gel in a Phase 2B trial to be used after fractionated ablative laser resurfacing of the chest.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two adults who received fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing of the chest were randomized (active or placebo) for 5 consecutive days after procedure. Skin quality at baseline and follow-up was assessed by a blinded evaluator using the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle Scale. Subject satisfaction with skin healing and quality was also assessed.

RESULTS: At 28 days according to the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle Scale, 85% of subjects achieved an improvement of at least 33% for the active group versus 50% in the placebo group (absolute difference 35%; p = .04). Similarly, 75% of subjects achieved an improvement score of at least 33% in elastosis in the active group versus 35% in the placebo group at 28 days (40% absolute difference; p = .011).

CONCLUSION: This study confirms the potent effects of the novel macrophage-activating gel for optimization of skin healing and quality after laser resurfacing of the chest.