Q-Switched 660-nm Versus 532-nm Nd:YAG Laser for the Treatment for Facial Lentigines in Asian Patients: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Split-Face Comparison Pilot Study

BACKGROUND Q-switched (QS) 532-nm lasers are widely used to treat solar lentigines. OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy and safety of 660-nm and 532-nm QS neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers in the treatment for lentigines in Asians. MATERIALS AND METHODS The halves of each face (randomly chosen) of 8 Korean Fitzpatrick Skin Type III-IV women with facial solar lentigines were treated with either 660-nm or 532-nm lasers. Pigmentation was measured objectively using a profilometric skin analysis tool and subjectively using the pigmentation area and severity index (PSI) score, global assessment of the aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS), and a patient satisfaction score at Weeks 4 and 8. RESULTS Seven patients completed the study. No significant differences were found in the PSI, GAIS, patient satisfaction score, and melanin average score between the lasers. The melanin average level was significantly reduced by the 660-nm laser but not the 532-nm laser at Week 8 compared with the baseline. CONCLUSION Both 660-nm and 532-nm QS Nd: YAG lasers effectively reduce pigmentation for up to 8 weeks with high patient satisfaction. The new 660-nm laser therefore increases the treatment options for lentigines in Asian skin.