Modern techniques in addressing facial acne scars: A thorough analysis.

BACKGROUND: Facial acne scars are a prevalent concern, leading to the development of various treatment modalities. OBJECTIVES: This review aims to explore the latest advancements in the treatment of facial acne scars, focusing on both surgical and non-surgical methods. METHODS: The non-surgical treatments reviewed include topical medications (such as retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids) and non-invasive procedures (like microdermabrasion and chemical peels). Surgical options discussed are punch excision, subcision, and fractional laser treatments. RESULTS: Combination therapy, integrating both surgical and non-surgical approaches, is frequently utilized to achieve optimal results in scar improvement. CONCLUSION: Recent advancements in the treatment of facial acne scars provide promising options for individuals seeking improvement. However, these treatments have associated risks and potential adverse effects, highlighting the importance of consulting a dermatologist before beginning any treatment regimen.

Endo-radiofrequency subcision in the treatment of acne scars: a pilot investigative study.

Acne vulgaris is a common condition, mostly involving teenagers. Post-acne scarring can cause many psychosocial problems. Treatments include topical agents, chemical peels, ablative lasers, fractional lasers, and more invasive approaches like subcision and surgery. We aimed to build on data regarding the efficacy and safety of endo-radiofrequency subcision in treating acne scars. This trial involved 30 patients (26 females and 4 males) suffering from acne scars. Patients were treated with endo-radiofrequency subcision. Outcomes were measured by Goodman and Baron scores (GBA), Patient's Global Assessment (PGA), and Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA). All 30 patients completed the trial. The mean baseline quantitative Goodman and Baron score was 13.2 ± 4.31, which improved to 5.37 ± 2.83 by the end of the study (P < 0.001). A significant improvement was also noted in the Goodman and Baron qualitative assessment of acne scars (P < 0.001). According to the PGA, the improvement rate was 25-50% in most patients (60%), while according to the IGA, the improvement rate was 25-49% in most patients (50%). Eleven patients (36.7%) were satisfied with the treatment process, while the other 19 patients (63.3%) were very satisfied. Side effects were minimal and transient. A single session of endo-radiofrequency subcision is a fairly safe and effective treatment, with a high satisfaction rate among treated patients.

Surgical Subcision for Acne Scars: A Review of Instrumentation.

BACKGROUND: Subcision is a surgical technique for managing atrophic acne scars. Over time, new instruments have emerged to increase the efficiency, efficacy, and safety of the subcision procedure, including sharp, blunt, and energy-assisted devices. OBJECTIVE: To review the instrumentation used for the subcision of acne scars and to provide clinicians with practical information regarding the selection of instrumentation, with a focus on advantages and disadvantages. METHODS: A search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar was conducted for articles from January 2000 to June 2022 describing the use of subcision alone for the management of acne scarring. Demographic and clinical data were collected from the included articles. RESULTS: A total of 417 patients from 17 articles were included; 155 patients underwent sharp subcision, 235 patients underwent blunt subcision, and 27 patients underwent energy-assisted subcision. The main indication for subcision was atrophic facial acne scars. Subcision using sharp, blunt, and energy-assisted instruments were all effective in treating atrophic acne scars. Adverse effects common to all subcision methods included erythema and edema. CONCLUSION: Subcision is a safe and effective modality for the revision of selected acne scars and is a valuable skill set for dermatologists who perform scar revision to master.

A Review of Laser Therapies for the Treatment of Scarring and Vascular Anomalies.

Significance: Laser use has become part of the gold standard of treatment as an effective adjuvant in multimodal therapy for pathologic scarring caused by burns, trauma, acne, and surgery, as well as vascular anomalies. Understanding indications and applications for laser therapy is essential for physicians to improve patient outcomes. Recent Advances: Since the 1980s, the medical use of lasers has continuously evolved with improvements in technology. Novel lasers and fractionated technologies are currently being studied in the hopes to improve treatment efficacy, while reducing complications. Recent advancements include acne treatment with novel picosecond lasers, new hypertrophic scar therapies with simultaneous laser and intense pulsed light use, and novel systems such as lasers with intralesional optical fiber delivery devices. In addition, optimizing the timing of laser therapy and its use in multimodal treatments continue to advance the field of photothermolysis. Critical Issues: Selecting the correct laser for a given indication is the fundamental decision when choosing a laser balancing effective treatment with minimal complications. This article covers the principles of laser therapy, the preferred lasers used for the treatment of scarring and vascular anomalies, and discusses the current evidence behind these laser choices. Future Directions: To optimize laser therapy, larger randomized control trials and split scar studies are needed. Continued advancement through better randomized controlled studies will help to improve patient outcomes on a broader scale.

Triple steps acne scar revision technique: A new combination therapeutic modality for atrophic acne scars.

BACKGROUND: Atrophic acne scarring is an unfortunate, permanent complication of acne vulgaris, associated with significant psychological distress. OBJECTIVE: A new complementary treatment of atrophic acne scars using subcision and injection of hybrid cooperative complexes of high and low molecular weight hyaluronan (hybrid H-HA/L-HA). METHODS: This study included eighty-two patients divided into two groups with predominantly atrophic acne scarring. Group 1 received subcision with saline injection, while group 2 received triple steps acne scar revision technique (TSASRT). After topical anesthesia, the procedure of combining subcision and hybrid H-HA/L-HA technique was done in which the first step started using subcision technique done to release fibrous cords at the dermal or deep dermal, subcutaneous plane using Nokor needles-18 g. The second step is to inject the scar's atrophic dermal component with a 29 g needle, applying an average amount of hybrid H-HA/L-HA (0.02-0.1 mL) to the dermal component. The third step was to fill the subcisied space with hybrid H-HA/L-HA (0.02-0.1 mL) using a 25 g cannula. RESULTS: Clinical improvement was achieved in both groups. There were statistically significant improvements in the TSASRT versus subcision (p ≤ 0.05) in acne scar severity index and qualitative scarring grading system. CONCLUSION: The triple step acne scar revision technique appears to be a safe and effective way to treat atrophic acne scars on the face.

Single session of combined microfat and subcision in the treatment of Grade 4 atrophic acne scars.

BACKGROUND: Severe atrophic acne scars (AAS) remain the "Achilles's heel" of AAS treatment. The combination of microfat and subcision treatment is a potential solution for severe AAS. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined microfat and subcision treatment for severe (Grade 4) AAS. METHODS: Data of patients with Grade 4 AAS who underwent combined microfat and subcision treatment between September 2016 and December 2020 were reviewed. Post-treatment evaluation was performed at least 3 months postoperatively. The severity of AAS was graded based on Goodman's qualitative classification. The volume of concavities was measured using an Antera 3D camera. Complications were documented. RESULTS: A total of 42 patients received a single treatment session. Excellent response was observed in 5 (11.9%) patients, very good in 13 (31.0%), good in 22 (52.4%), and poor response in 2 (4.7%). The average reduction of the total volume of concavities was 28.0%. The most common minor side effects were mild swelling and bruising. No major complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Combined microfat and subcision treatment is a safe and effective treatment for severe AAS. The approach will be a significant treatment for severe AAS.

Trichloroacetic Acid Paint for Boxcar and Polymorphic Acne Scars.

BACKGROUND: Scarring is a common complication of acne vulgaris with a significant impact on the psychological well-being of patients. Focal application of high concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) has been proven efficacious in treating ice-pick scars, but the utility in other scar types is understudied. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 90% TCA in boxcar and polymorphic acne scars using a novel brush applicator. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-one patients with acne scars were recruited for treatment of boxcar and polymorphic scar with 90% TCA applied with a cosmetic brush. Each patient received 3 treatment sessions spaced between 7 and 9 weeks apart. RESULTS: All participants had good to excellent outcomes as per Jacob and colleagues grading. Patients with skin Type 3 to 6 had more excellent outcomes (13 patient, 59%) than patients of skin type 1 to 2 (9 patients, 41%). Two participants (5%) had postprocedural complications. Five participants (14%) were on concomitant isotretinoin with no appreciable increase in reepithelialization time or rate of complications. CONCLUSION: Focal 90% TCA with a cosmetic brush applicator is safe and effective in treating boxcar and polymorphic scars. The clinical outcome is good to excellent with low rates of complication.

The Efficacy of Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment for Acne Vulgaris: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Previous reports have shown that pulsed dye laser (PDL) is promising for the treatment of acne; however, results provide conflicting evidence. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of PDL in treating acne vulgaris. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published before March 31, 2020 was conducted. Randomized controlled trials and case series were analyzed. The meta-analysis estimated the standardized mean difference (SMD) in acne severity score changes in patients treated by PDL versus control and also the SMD of the acne severity scores and comedone counts changes before and after PDL treatment. RESULTS: Eleven studies were included in this systematic review. Six studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pulsed dye laser treatment was not found to be superior to the control group in treating acne vulgaris (SMD: -0.285; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.886 to 0.317). However, single-arm studies revealed a significantly improved acne severity score after PDL therapy (SMD, -1.321; 95% CI, -2.057 to -0.586), especially when a multiple-session treatment and a longer pulse duration were employed. The comedone counts were significantly decreased after PDL therapy (SMD, -0.596; 95% CI, -1.137 to -0.054). CONCLUSION: When treatment consisted of 4 or more sessions or longer pulse duration, PDL could significantly decrease the acne severity score.

A new 675-nm laser device in the treatment of acne scars: an observational study.

PURPOSE: Acne scarring represents a common problem that negatively impacts patients' quality of life. Different types of treatments are currently available for this dermatological condition. This study evaluates the efficacy of a new 675-nm laser source system on acne scars with the use of established parameters that guarantee minimum pain and the absence of side effects such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and blistering. METHODS: A total of 24 subjects (all women, aged 21-42 years), with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV and facial acne scars, were treated with three sessions of a 675-nm laser system. Efficacy of treatment was evaluated using the Goodman and Baron's quantitative grading scale before and 3 months after the last treatment. RESULTS: All 24 patients treated with this new 675-nm laser had significant improvement of acne scars according to Goodman and Baron's Quantitative Global Acne Scarring Grading System. No side effect has been observed except some minor erythematous reactions in three patients. CONCLUSION: The 675-nm laser system we used appears to be effective and well-tolerated in patients with acne scars, and it involves a simple post-treatment management.

Efficacy of non-ablative fractional 1440-nm laser therapy for treatment of facial acne scars in patients with rosacea: a prospective, interventional study.

Acne scarring is one of the most common facial skin disorders. The appropriate treatments for acne scars in patients with rosacea have not been studied. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of non-ablative fractional 1440-nm laser (1440-nm NAFL) therapy for treatment of atrophic acne scars in patients with rosacea. In this prospective, interventional study, 32 patients with rosacea and acne scars underwent three sessions of 1440-nm NAFL therapy. Therapy efficacy, epidermal barrier function, and side effects were evaluated. Thirty patients completed and the median acne scar scores significantly reduced from 45 (30, 50) to 15 (15, 30) after three treatments (P < 0.001). The improvement score of acne scars was 2.7 ± 0.7; 22 (73.3%) were satisfied or highly satisfied. The rosacea erythema scores changed from 2.1 ± 0.4 to 1.9 ± 0.5 (P = 0.326), and flushing, burning, and stinging were not worse. The oil content after treatments was significantly reduced (P < 0.001), while there was no significant difference in other indicators of skin barrier function. The quality-of-life score decreased from 17.5 ± 3.8 to 14.1 ± 3.0 (P < 0.001). No serious side effects were observed. The 1440-nm NAFL therapy is effective in the treatment of acne scaring in patients with rosacea with little damage to the skin barrier.

Comparison of Fractional Picosecond 1064-nm Laser and Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser for Treating Atrophic Acne Scars: A Randomized Split-Face Trial.

BACKGROUND: To date, no studies have compared the fractional picosecond 1064-nm laser (FxPico) and fractional carbon dioxide laser (FxCO2) for the treatment of acne scars. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and safety between FxPico and FxCO2 for treating facial atrophic acne scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five Asian patients with mild to moderate atrophic acne scars underwent single sessions of randomized split-face treatment with FxPico and FxCO2. Clinical efficacy was assessed by photographs, skin imaging analysis, and patient satisfaction. The adverse events were recorded on every visit. Skin biopsies were performed immediately and 3 months after treatment. RESULTS: The physician improvement scores for skin texture and atrophy significantly increased on the FxPico sides, but no significant difference was observed between FxPico and FxCO2. Skin imaging also showed significant improvement on both sides for scar volume. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) was not reported on FxPico sides, whereas 6 patients (24%) experienced mild PIH on FxCO2 sides. Immediate post-FxPico skin biopsy revealed laser-induced optical breakdown with photoacoustic columns. Collagen and elastic fibers increased at 3 months after both treatments. CONCLUSION: FxPico was as effective as FxCO2 in treating atrophic acne scars, correlating with evidence of tissue remodeling with more safety profiles.

Efficacy of 595- and 1319-nm pulsed dye laser in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a narrative review.

Acne is one of the commonest problems of adolescence with almost half of the patients experiencing persistence into adulthood. Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) with wavelengths of 585 and 595 nm targeting hemoglobin have been used for the treatment of this condition and its sequelae. Recent introduction of PDL with a higher wavelength of 1319 nm has been reported to offer some benefit to acne patients. We reviewed the literature on the use of 595-nm and 1319-nm PDL in the management of acne. A PubMed literature search for search terms "pulsed dye laser," "acne laser therapy," "light therapy for acne," "595 nm and acne," "1319 nm and acne" was done. Studies, series and case reports were included. These lasers were compared to other lasers and light sources such as 532-nm Potassium Titanyl Phosphate laser, 585-nm PDLs, 1450-nm diode laser, 1540-nm erbium glass laser, intense-pulsed light (IPL), photodynamic therapy, red and blue light and short-pulsed 1064 nm laser utilized in acne management regarding their efficacy. Improvement in acne grading, scale severity or reduction in lesion count indicated substantial efficacy of the laser system utilized.

650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser treatment of acne: A double-blind randomized control study.

BACKGROUND: A variety of energy-based devices have been used to treat acne. However, all studies have been subjective and have not involved double-blind and randomized controlled studies. AIMS: We undertook a randomized controlled study evaluating the use of a 650 usec 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser compared with a sham in the treatment of acne. PATIENTS/METHODS: A total of 20 subjects with moderate-to-severe acne were randomized to receive either 650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser or sham treatment. All subjects received 3 treatments, two weeks apart, plus an additional session undertaken 4 weeks after the 3rd treatment. Subjects were evaluated for investigator global improvement, improvement in inflammatory lesions, improvement in comedonal lesions, total porphyrin score, and total sebum score. RESULTS: The laser-treated group showed an Investigator's Global Assessment Scale (IGA) improvement of 26% compared with 7% for the sham group (a 271% improvement over sham treatment group). The treatment group also showed a decrease in the number of inflammatory lesions of 42% compared with 26% in the sham group (a 62% improvement over sham). The laser-treated cohort also experienced a reduction in total number of comedones similar to that seen with inflammatory lesions and a decrease in total porphyrin score. There was also an 18% reduction in sebum production in the treated group, compared with 9% in the sham group (a 100% improvement). CONCLUSION: This is the first study that has compared laser treatment of acne compared with a sham treatment. A 650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser can effectively treat acne.

Efficacy, safety, and guidelines of application of the fractional ablative laser erbium YAG 2940 nm and non-ablative laser erbium glass in rejuvenation, skin spots, and acne in different skin phototypes: a systematic review.

Non-ablative and ablative fractional erbium lasers are among the most frequently used resources in dermatology for facial rejuvenation and for treating dermatological disorders. This type of erbium laser can be found at wavelengths of 1540 or 1550 nm, which are classified as non-ablative erbium glass, and at 2940 nm, classified as ablative erbium YAG. Despite the reports of their clinical benefits, few scientific studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of these lasers in the short or long term. In order to substantiate the effects, benefits, and safety of applying the erbium glass and erbium YAG lasers, a systematic review was carried out from August to December 2019 about studies published in the last 20 years. Randomized clinical trials in humans were considered that evaluated the efficacy, safety, and benefits of applying the fractional lasers erbium glass and erbium YAG to facial rejuvenation, skin spots, and atrophic acne scars. A total of 338 articles were identified; 76 articles remained after their titles and abstracts were read, and 42 articles were selected after removing the duplicates. After the articles were read in full, 17 of these articles were included in the systematic review (453 patients). The erbium glass and erbium YAG lasers seem promising in the short term, with minimal adverse effects; however, the long-term efficacy and safety still present limitations. Consequently, future research is needed, with better methodological standardization and a follow-up with a longer evaluation period for possible permanent adverse effects to determine the standardization and safety of therapy with erbium glass and erbium YAG lasers.

Treatment of atrophic acne scars with combination therapy of chemical reconstruction of skin scars method and fractionated nonablative laser: A retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with acne scarring often have several types of acne scars, and combination therapies have demonstrated superior success to single treatment modalities. Chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) has gained popularity as the treatment for ice-pick scars and fractionated laser therapy for rolling and boxcar scars. However, no study has looked at combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser for the treatment of atrophic acne scars. AIMS: We sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser for atrophic acne scars. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated with CROSS followed by fractionated nonablative laser treatment in the same visit for acne scars from 2016 to 2020. Treatment efficacy, defined as the percentage improvement in the appearance of acne scars, was assessed using a 5-point scale: score 0 (worsening or 0% improvement), 1 (1% - 25%), 2 (26% - 50%), 3 (51%-75%), and 4 (76%-100%). RESULTS: Twenty-five patients (14 females and 11 males, Fitzpatrick Skin Type II -V) were enrolled. The average improvement score was 2.07 after 3 sessions and 2.78 after 5 sessions. All subjects reported satisfaction, while 24% were very satisfied. There were no permanent adverse effects, and only one patient developed a temporary hypertrophic scar. CONCLUSION: We concluded that combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser in the same visit is an effective and safe treatment option for atrophic acne scars in patients with various skin types, including skin of color.

A novel technique for treating atrophic facial scars in Asians using ultra-pulse CO2 laser.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Fractional lasers have become increasingly popular for treating atrophic scars, but their effectiveness is limited for deeper scars. We developed a novel technique (manual fractional thermal contraction technology, MFTCT) using an ultra-pulse CO2 laser and evaluated its efficacy and safety for treating atrophic facial scars. METHODS: A total of 44 patients with atrophic facial scars were treated with MFTCT every 8 weeks for 1-4 times. Overall scar improvement was assessed by photographs taken at baseline and 3 months after the last treatment according to the 4-point global assessment scale (GAS) and ECCA grading scale. Improvements in color, distortion, and texture were assessed by the modified Manchester Scar Scale and scored individually from 1 to 4. Pain degrees and adverse reactions during and after treatment were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 44 patients completed the treatment and follow-ups; of them, 89% reported at least 50% overall improvement after the last treatment. The mean ECCA scores fell from 67.50 ± 23.98 to 45.68 ± 18.57 (a 32% improvement), and the change was significant (P = .000). The average score for overall improvement was 3.48. The average scores for color, distortion, and texture were 3.07 ± 0.62, 3.27 ± 0.50, and 3.52 ± 0.51, respectively. Mean pain degree score was 4.27 ± 1.04, and mean erythema duration was 28.43 ± 6.58 days. Some patients developed pigmentation for a few months that resolved with topical treatment. CONCLUSION: Manual fractional thermal contraction technology has definite clinical efficacy in the treatment of atrophic facial scars with fewer adverse reactions and is worth using in the clinical setting.