Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing in Asians

BACKGROUND. Although laser resurfacing has become increasingly popular in the treatment of Caucasian skin, concerns about healing and postinflammatory pigmentary changes have limited its use in Asian skin. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of the Erbium(ER):YAG laser used in the treatment of Asian skin. METHODS. Fifty Asian individuals with Rhytids, scars, pigmentary alteration, and a variety of cutaneous growth were treated with the Erbium:YAG laser. Patients were evaluated for clinical efficacy, wound healing, post-operative erythema, and post-inflammatory pigmentary changes. RESULTS. Significant improvement was noted in all individuals. Shorter periods for re-epithelization and erythema duration were noted when compared to previously reported results following carbon dioxide laser resurfacing. CONCLUSION. The Erbium:YAG laser is safe and effective in the treatment of Asian skin. (C) 1998 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.