Preliminary comparison of fractional laser with fractional laser plus radiofrequency for the treatment of acne scars and photoaging

Background The therapeutic approach to the treatment of acne scars and photoaging varies according to the type of lesion. Traditional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser is associated with long healing times, persistent erythema, and high risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Fractional laser technology, which involves the application of microscopic beams of pixilated light inducing focal zones of tissue injury surrounded by normal tissue, is currently used for the treatment of acne scars and photoaging. Objective To compare the results obtained using CO₂ fractional laser with those obtained using CO₂ fractional laser plus radiofrequency for the treatment of atrophic acne scars and photoaging by means of clinical evaluation and confocal laser. Materials and Methods Ten patients with photoaging and acne scars underwent a single treatment using both technologies. Investigators and patients evaluated the clinical effect of the treatments using digital photographs, dermatoscopy, and in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy before and immediately, 1 week, and 3 months after treatment. Results and Conclusion Our results underlined the high efficacy of combining CO₂ laser and radiofrequency, producing better results with fewer sessions, lower risks, and fewer side effects.