RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety associated with use of a 589-nm solid-state laser for treatment of facial erythema. METHODS: A prospective, IRB-approved study was conducted. Participants who were interested in treatment for facial erythema were recruited. They received four monthly treatments with the 589-nm laser. Erythema of the right and left face was graded on a scale of 0-4, 4 being most severe, by both investigators and participants prior to each treatment and at follow-up. Safety was assessed by any reported side effects. RESULTS: Twenty-four participants enrolled in the study, 16 women (67%) and 8 men (33%), with an average age of 51.1 years. Investigator grades showed a statistically significant improvement in erythema of 31% for both the right and left face. Participant grades showed a statistically significant improvement in erythema of 23.2% for the right face and 22.8% for the left face. Side effects were limited to transient erythema posttreatment. CONCLUSION: A 589-nm solid-state laser achieved a modest improvement in facial erythema when evaluating results 1 month after four monthly treatments. No major safety issues were reported.
