Laser for post acne scars with or without growth factors: a comparative clinical trial

Lakkireddygari Sujana; Balachandra S. Ankad; Savitha L. Beergouder

doi:10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20200601

Authors

Lakkireddygari Sujana Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, Santosh Medical College and Hospital, NCR, Delhi, India
Balachandra S. Ankad Department of Dermatology, Venereology and leprosy, S Nijalingappa Medical College and Hospital, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India
Savitha L. Beergouder Department of Dermatology, Venereology and leprosy, S Nijalingappa Medical College and Hospital, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20200601

Keywords:

Fractional CO2 laser, Post-acne scars, Platelet-rich plasma

Abstract

Background: Treatment of acne scars presents a considerable challenge to dermatologists. But with advent of fractional CO₂ (FCO₂) laser and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), new avenues can be explored. PRP provides various growth factors, so that the healing of laser-damaged skin is accelerated. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of FCO₂ laser alone and in combination with PRP in patients with post-acne scars.

Methods: Eighty patients with acne scars were counseled and randomly assigned into two groups of 40 each. Group A was treated with FCO₂ laser alone, while Group B was treated with FCO₂ laser and PRP for 6 months. Primary objective was assessment of efficacy of both treatment modalities. Secondary objective was evaluation of safety of treatments.

Results: At the end of 6 months, group A showed about 18% reduction, while group B showed about 33% reduction in acne scars on objective assessment. Patient satisfaction as assessed by subjective assessment was greater in group B than in group A. Duration of erythema, edema and crusting was lesser in group B compared to group A.

Conclusions: Combination of FCO₂ and PRP was found to be more efficacious as compared to FCO₂ laser alone. Combining the treatment modalities can provide a new strategy for treating the post-acne scars.

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