Perifollicular Elastolysis: A Systematic Review of Clinical Characteristics, Histopathology, and Therapeutic Outcomes
February 2026
in “
Cosmetics
”
TLDR Perifollicular elastolysis is poorly understood, with limited treatment options and inconsistent results.
This systematic review on perifollicular elastolysis (PE) compiles data from 16 studies, highlighting its clinical characteristics, histopathology, and therapeutic outcomes. PE is characterized by asymptomatic, noninflammatory follicular papules and a significant loss of elastic fibers around hair follicles. It is often associated with acne history and keloid scars. The review finds that fractional CO2 laser therapy shows promise in improving PE appearance, though evidence is limited and varied. The review emphasizes the need for standardized terminology, diagnostic criteria, and further research to establish effective treatments for PE.