Plasma skin resurfacing for regeneration of neck, chest, and hands: investigation of a novel device.

BACKGROUND Many noninvasive treatments to rejuvenate photodamaged skin are characterized by an unattainable balance between effectiveness and morbidity. The demand for safe, effective procedures has fueled the emergence of plasma skin regeneration (PSR). Preliminary studies have elaborated on the safety and efficacy of PSR for facial skin; however, no evaluation in nonfacial areas has been made. OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PSR in the treatment of moderately photodamaged skin on the neck, chest, and dorsal hands. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty skin areas in 10 patients were selected. Each area received one of three discrete energy settings using a commercially available PSR system. Clinical evaluations of skin texture, pigmentation, wrinkle severity, and side effects were conducted immediately and at 4, 7, 14, 30, and 90 days after treatment. RESULTS Mean clinical improvements of 57, 48, and 41% were observed in chest, hands, and neck sites, respectively. Significant reduction in wrinkle severity, hyperpigmentation, and increased skin smoothness were achieved. Higher-energy settings yielded greater benefit but also prolonged tissue healing. CONCLUSIONS PSR offers improvement of moderately photodamaged skin of the neck, chest, and dorsal hands with limited side effects. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of multiple treatment sessions, optimal treatment parameters, and intervals for each site and longevity of clinical results.