Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of the picosecond alexandrite laser with specialized lens array for treatment of the photoaging decolletage

BackgroundFractionated lasers are routinely used to treat the characteristic cutaneous signs of photoaging. In this study, we evaluate the use of picosecond pulse duration combined with a diffractive lens array for treatment of photodamage of the decolletage. MethodsTwenty subjects with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV were enrolled in a prospective open-label trial evaluating the efficacy of the 755nm picosecond pulsed alexandrite laser with diffractive lens array for treatment of photodamage to the decolletage. Each subject received a series of four laser treatments at 3 week intervals. Follow up evaluation was performed 1 and 3 months later by a masked investigator and consisted of assessment of dyspigmentation, erythema, keratosis, texture, and rhytides on a standardized 5 point scale; global aesthetic improvement 5 point scale; and investigator and subject satisfaction questionnaire. Adverse events and treatment discomfort was also assessed. ResultsStatistically significant improvement in dyspigmentation, keratosis, and skin texture were observed at both 1 and 3 month follow up intervals (P<0.05). rhytides initially demonstrated significant improvement at the 1 month time point, but this significance was not maintained at 3 months (P=0.08). There was no statistically significant improvement noted in erythema. The majority of subjects were satisfied, with a mean rating of 2.8/6 (one being extremely satisfied and six being extremely dissatisfied). Subject pain was 3.6/10. ConclusionThe 755nm picosecond pulsed alexandrite laser with diffractive lens array can be an effective option for rejuvenation of the photodamaged decolletage. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:188-192, 2016. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.