TLDR Fractional resurfacing is safe and effective for certain skin conditions in Asian patients, but care must be taken to avoid skin pigmentation issues.
The 2016 document reviewed the effectiveness and safety of fractional resurfacing treatments, such as non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL) and ablative fractional laser (AFL), for Asian patients. It concluded that fractional resurfacing is a safe and effective first-line therapy for atrophic acne scarring, hypertrophic scarring, and photorejuvenation. NAFL treatments are recommended to be administered at lower densities over a longer period to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), while AFL treatments are reserved for more severe cases. For melasma, NAFL is considered a second-line option due to the variable and often temporary improvement and the potential for rebound hyperpigmentation. The document also suggests that combination treatments may be more effective for various skin issues, but emphasizes the need for more research to optimize treatment parameters for Asian patients. The most common complication, PIH, can be mitigated with proper skin care and treatment settings.
16 citations,
April 2015 in “Lasers in Surgery and Medicine” Using a fractional laser can stimulate hair growth, but the intensity and duration of inflammation are crucial. Too much can cause ulcers and scarring. Lower beam energy and fewer treatments are recommended to avoid damage.
51 citations,
September 2013 in “JEADV. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology/Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” FRMS is a safe and effective treatment for acne scars in Asians with minimal side effects.
18 citations,
May 2013 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Non-ablative fractional laser treatments have a low risk of side effects in Asian patients.
46 citations,
March 2013 in “Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy” Non-ablative and ablative fractional lasers helped hair growth in some cases without major side effects, but didn't work for all hair disorders.
47 citations,
August 2011 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Laser treatment increases hair density and thickness safely in women with hair loss.
50 citations,
December 2010 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Laser treatment can stimulate hair growth for male pattern hair loss.
1 citations,
May 2017 in “InTech eBooks” Some cosmetic procedures show promise for treating hair loss, but more research is needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
18 citations,
June 2019 in “Clinical research in dermatology” Acne can't be cured but can be managed with treatments like benzoyl peroxide and diet changes; it's costly and can lead to scarring and mental health issues.
4 citations,
August 2022 in “Lasers in medical science” Both 1565-nm laser and 1064-nm laser safely and effectively reduce enlarged facial pores, with the 1064-nm laser causing fewer side effects.
46 citations,
March 2013 in “Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy” Non-ablative and ablative fractional lasers helped hair growth in some cases without major side effects, but didn't work for all hair disorders.
2 citations,
January 2011 in “Elsevier eBooks” Early treatment of acne is crucial to prevent scarring and psychological effects.
