Lasers in the treatment of acne scars. (February 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choudhary, Sonal; McLeod, Michael; Meshkov, Lauren; Nouri, Keyvan
• Is Part Of: Expert review of dermatology. Volume 6:Number 1(2011)
• Page Start: 45
• Page End: 60
• Publication Date: 2011-02
• Subjects: ablative lasers -- acne scars -- classification of acne scars -- CO2 lasers -- erbium:YAG lasers -- fractional lasers -- microthermal zones -- nonablative lasers; Dermatology -- Periodicals; 616.5005
• DOI: 10.1586/edm.10.65
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-9872

Abstract

Acne scars occur as one of the complications of acne vulgaris. A number of therapeutic options are available. Lasers are most useful for grades 2 and 3 acne scars according to the scale put forth by Goodman and colleagues. Nonablative lasers are most appropriate for grade 2 scars, while ablative lasers should be used to treat grade 3 acne scars. Fractional lasers have been developed in an effort to improve the efficacy observed with nonablative lasers, yet reduce the side effects of ablative lasers. Ablative fractional lasers ablate through the epidermis, while nonablative fractional lasers leave the epidermis largely untouched, instead targeting the dermo––epidermal junction. More studies are required to determine the exact placement of fractional lasers in the clinician''s armamentarium.