Efficacy and Safety of Extracellular Matrix on Wound Healing After Picosecond Laser Therapy

Abstract

BACKGROUND Extracellular matrix (ECM), a material with tissue repair function, is applied to treat various wounds. However, the role of ECM in facilitating wound healing after facial laser treatment remains elusive. OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy and safety of ECM in promoting wound healing after picosecond laser therapy (PLT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighteen female subjects with benign pigmentation disorders were randomly assigned to the ECM (n = 9) and control groups (n = 9). After PLT, the ECM and control groups were treated with ECM and facial moisturizer in the first 7 days, respectively. The severity of erythema and edema was assessed using photographs. The duration of erythema, edema, scab shedding, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation incidence (PIH), and adverse events was documented in detail. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the ECM group had a shorter duration of erythema, edema, and scab shedding after PLT (p < .01). A significantly decreased severity of erythema (p < .05) and edema (p < .01) was found in the ECM group versus the control group, respectively. The PIH incidence in the ECM group was lower than in controls, albeit without statistical significance. No serious adverse events were observed during the follow-up. CONCLUSION Extracellular matrix is an effective and safe dressing for promoting wound healing after PLT.