Retreatment using a dual mode of low-fluence Q-switched and long-pulse Nd:YAG laser in patients with melasma aggravation after previous therapy. (June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choi, Chun Pil; Yim, Seon Mi; Seo, Soo Hong; Ahn, Hyo Hyun; Kye, Young Chul; Choi, Jae Eun
• Is Part Of: Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy. Volume 17:Number 3(2015:Jun.)
• Page Start: 129
• Page End: 134
• Publication Date: 2015-06
• Subjects: Skin -- Laser surgery -- Periodicals; Surgery, Plastic -- Periodicals; 617.477
• DOI: 10.3109/14764172.2014.988730
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1476-4172

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p> <italic>Background:</italic> Aggravated melasma after treatment is vulnerable to stimulation, can easily deteriorate, and may be distressing without proper management. <italic>Objective:</italic> To retrospectively assess the effectiveness and safety of combination therapy using low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser (QSNY) and long-pulse Nd:YAG laser (LPNY) (dual toning) in patients with rebound melasma. <italic>Materials and methods:</italic> A total of 30 patients with aggravated melasma after previous therapy who were treated with dual toning were enrolled. A total of 10 sessions were conducted at 1-week intervals, followed by maintenance treatment. The results were evaluated using the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) and the physician's global assessment (PGA) before and 2 months after completing the 10 treatment sessions. <italic>Results:</italic> The baseline mMASI was 10.48 ± 3.64, which significantly decreased to 3.22 ± 1.45 2 months after completing the 10 treatment sessions (<italic>p</italic> < 0.001). Twenty-four patients (80%) had PGA grade 4 (76–100% improvement) and 6 patients (20%) had PGA grade 3 (51–75% improvement). <italic>Conclusion:</italic> Dual toning may be a safe and effective salvage treatment for patients with aggravated melasma after previous treatment. LPNY may stabilize melasma activity to prevent rebound hyperpigmentation via dermal remodeling.</p> </abstract>