Evaluation of the 1,540-nm erbium:glass laser in the treatment of inflammatory facial acne

Background The erbium:glass laser is approved to treat inflammatory acne on the back. Objective This aim of this study was to evaluate the use of the 1,540-nm erbium:glass laser in the treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory acne on the face. Methods and materials An erbium:glass laser (Aramis, Quantel Medical, Clermont-Ferrand, France) was used to treat 15 patients with moderate to severe acne four times at 2-week intervals. Active lesions were first treated with six pulses at 10 J/cm(2). The entire face was then treated with a single pass using bursts of four pulses at 10 J/cm(2). Sebum measurements were performed. Six patients continued in a double-arm study to determine whether an additional treatment at 6 months would prolong the lesion-free period. Final evaluation was at 9 months. Results At 6-month follow-up, patients rated improvement as 68%, and the mean investigator improvement assessment was 78%. Sebum measurements did not change. No patients required anesthesia, and no side effects were observed. A single retreatment session 6 months after the initial course held clearance at 80% at 9-month follow-up, whereas patients without retreatment had 72% clearance. Conclusion Treatment of inflammatory facial acne with the 1,540-nm erbium:glass laser is effective and relatively painless. Papules, pustules, and nodules all respond well to therapy. Additional treatment sessions may prolong the lesion-free period, and maintenance therapy should be included as a part of the treatment course.