Safety and efficacy of picosecond Alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array for treatment of facial photoaging

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 755 nm picosecond Alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array in the treatment of facial photoaged skin. Methods Twenty-six patients with facial photoaging were recruited and received 3 treatments at 4-week intervals. Laser energy was applied over the entire face at a fixed spot size of 6 mm, with a fluence of 0.71 J/cm2 and 5Hz. Blinded clinical assessment was performed by 2 independent dermatologists on a 5-point global photoaging scale (GPS). Patients were also questioned on the extent of improvement of rhytides, skin tightening, and complexion with a 4-point global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) and satisfaction. Adverse events were also evaluated. Results Twenty-six patients completed the treatment. Compared with the baseline, there was a significant improvement in facial photoaged skin after 3 treatments, and these positive outcomes were maintained up to the 3-month follow-up, according to the GPS and GAIS scores. Moderate pain and transient erythema were observed as the two main discomforts associated with the treatment. Most patients were satisfied with the treatment. Conclusions This 755 nm picosecond Alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array optic is effective in the treatment offacial photoaged skin, and the therapy also seems safe and well tolerated. Key words: Photoaging; Skin aging; Skin rejuvenation; Picosecond Alexandrite laser