Long pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser treatment for wrinkle reduction and skin laxity: evaluation of new parameters.

INTRODUCTION Among non-ablative devices for wrinkle reduction and skin laxity, long pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser (LPND) has considerable effectiveness. It can penetrate to deep dermis due to its longer wavelength. This study assesses the efficacy and safety of LPND applying new parameters for skin rejuvenation in Korean subjects. METHODS A prospective randomized split-faced study was done (n = 20). Half of the face was treated with three passes of LPND at a spot size of 12 mm, 20-24 J/cm(2) fluence, 12 ms width, and frequency of 2 Hz, for three sessions, every four weeks. Outcomes were measured by wrinkle evaluation of blinded investigators, subjects' self-assessment, objective measurements of elasticity, and skin biopsy. RESULTS Four weeks after the final treatment sessions, the average wrinkle grades of the treated side were reduced by 45.1%. Skin elasticity was significantly increased. The increment of collagen and elastic fiber in papillary dermis was confirmed histologically. No adverse reaction was reported. Pain on the treated side was mild without needing anesthesia. DISCUSSION The authors studied new parameters for LPND for improvement of wrinkles and skin laxity with fewer treatment sessions without serious complications. Histologic findings corresponded to clinical improvement. CONCLUSION New parameters of LPND can achieve wrinkle improvement with few side effects.