Treatment protocols and efficacy of light and laser treatments in post‐acne erythema

• Published in: Journal of cosmetic dermatology Vol. 21; no. 2; pp. 648 - 656
• Main Authors: Amiri, Rezvan, Khalili, Maryam, Mohammadi, Saman, Iranmanesh, Behzad, Aflatoonian, Mahin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.02.2022
• Subjects: Acne Vulgaris - complications; Clinical Protocols; Erythema - etiology; Humans; laser; Lasers, Dye - therapeutic use; Lasers, Solid-State - therapeutic use; light; post‐acne erythema; treatment; Treatment Outcome; treatment; post-acne erythema; laser; light
• ISSN: 1473-2130; 1473-2165
• DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14729

Background Post‐acne erythema is described as erythema due to release of inflammatory cytokines, dilatation of microcapillaries within papillary dermis and thinning of epidermis. The erythema usually fades; however, it can persist for months. Aim In this review, we decided to evaluate efficacy of light and laser treatments in acne‐induced erythema. Methods We searched PUBMED, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar for relevant key words. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated efficacy of laser or light in PAE until September 2021. Results Twelve RCTs were selected for the final assessment. Light and laser treatments included pulsed dye laser (PDL), intense pulsed light (IPL), Q‐switched neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS Nd:YAG), fractional photothermolysis, alexandrite, solid‐slate 589–1319 nm, and pro‐yellow laser. Conclusion Light and laser treatments are effective treatment modalities in reduction of acne‐induced erythema along with active acne lesions and atrophic acne scars.