Erbium:YAG laser skin resurfacing: a Pakistani experience

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the use of the erbium:YAG laser for resurfacing in type IV skin patients in Pakistan. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients with skin type IV underwent laser skin resurfacing with an erbium:YAG laser to treat wrinkles, acne/chickenpox scars and hyperpigmentation. An evaluation was done by the treating physician and a photographic evaluation and grading was done by a blinded observer. RESULTS: The treating physician's records show no erythema, pigmentary alteration, infection or scarring at the 3-month follow-up. The blinded observer's evaluation of the 3-month photographs showed moderate to excellent improvement in 80% of patients in their respective underlying condition. CONCLUSION: The erbium:YAG laser is safe and effective in treating wrinkles, acne/chickenpox scars and hyperpigmentation in skin type IV patients.