Lasers & topical vitamin C: scars in ehlers-danlos

Abstract

Background: Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) is a connective tissue disorder with cutaneous manifestations including poor wound healing and atrophic scar formation. There is evidence supporting the use of topical vitamin C and laser for scar revisions, but limited reports of using topical vitamin C in scar revisions in patients with hEDS. Objective: To present a case where topical vitamin C applied post-laser treatment resulted in improved healing and aesthetic outcomes in a patient with a connective tissue disorder. Methods: We present a case of treatment of atrophic and hypertrophic scars in a patient with hEDS with ablative fractional laser, pulsed dye laser, and post-procedural topical vitamin C. We discuss the patient’s treatments, outcomes, and previous literature on the matter. Results: This patient had markedly improved wound healing after topical application of vitamin C post-laser treatment with no complications. Additionally, the patient had improved aesthetic outcomes with topical vitamin C and laser treatment just after one session. Conclusion: This case suggests that hEDS scars may be safely treated with lasers when combined with post-procedural topical vitamin C.