Split-face comparison between single-band and dual-band pulsed light technology for treatment of photodamage.

BACKGROUND Intense pulsed light (IPL) has a well-recognized role in the treatment of photodamaged skin. OBJECTIVE To assess the safety and efficacy of a novel single-band IPL handpiece versus dual-band IPL handpiece in the treatment of photodamage. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective, single-center split-face study with 20 enrolled participants. Three treatments, 21 days apart, were administered to the subjects and follow-up was performed for 20 weeks. The left side of the face was treated with the single-band handpiece. The right side of the face was treated with the dual-band handpiece. Blinded investigators assessed the subjects' skin texture, pigmented components of photodamage, and presence of telangiectasia both before and after treatment, utilizing a five-point scale. RESULTS Pigmented components of photodamage, skin texture, and presence of telangiectasias on the left and right side of the face were improved at the end of treatment. At 20-week follow-up, the side treated with single-band handpiece showed improvement in telangiectasia and pigmentation that was statistically superior to the contralateral side treated with the dual-band handpiece. Both devices equally improved textural changes. No adverse effects were noted with either device. CONCLUSION Both single-band and dual-band IPL technology are safe and effective in the treatment of photodamaged facial skin. IPL treatment with a single-band handpiece yielded results comparable or superior to dual-band technology.