A randomized, prospective, split-face pilot study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 532-nm and 1064-nm picosecond-domain neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers using a diffractive optical element for non-ablative skin rejuvenation: clinical and histological evaluation

Abstract

Background: The advent of fractionated picosecond (ps) lasers has provided an opportunityto explore new ways of creating microinjuries in the skin to induce skin rejuvenation. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of diffractive optical element (DOE)-assistedps neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers with 532-nm and 1,064-nmwavelengths (532-nm and 1,064-nm Nd:YAG P-DOE) using a novel fractional handpiece forthe treatment of photoaged skin. Methods: An ex vivo guinea pig skin experiment was performed by evaluating the histologyof the skin after 532-nm Nd:YAG P-DOE irradiation. A randomized, prospective, split-facestudy was performed on eight subjects with 532-nm and 1,064-nm Nd:YAG P-DOE. Results: Based on the histological evaluation using ex vivo guinea pig skin, a reasonablesafety profile and the potential to generate effective skin rejuvenation was observed usingthe 532-nm Nd:YAG P-DOE. Results demonstrated that both 532- and 1,064-nm Nd:YAGP-DOE were similarly effective in improving skin texture and skin pores; however, 532-nmNd:YAG P-DOE was more effective in treating dyspigmentation. Conclusion: At a preliminary level, this study revealed that 532-nm and 1,064-nm ps Nd:YAGlasers using DOE fractional technology may improve photoaged skin. In conclusion, 532-nmNd:YAG P-DOE may be especially beneficial for skin with epidermal pigmentary lesions.