Efficacy of 1064nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser and 2940nm fractional erbium laser for severe acne with acne scar: a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Pharmacological therapy is not always desirable because of the development of antibiotic resistance or the potential risk of adverse effects. Non-pharmacological therapies can be viable alternatives to conventional therapies. Recently, laser therapy has been widely used in the treatment of acne vulgaris due to its effectiveness and safety as it provides a more rapid response with less rate of recurrence, specifically 1064nm Nd: YAG laser. Few studies have investigated laser combinations. Combination 1064nm Nd: YAG and 2940nm fractional erbium laser for severe acne with acne scar has not been reported. Case report: We report a case of severe acne with acne scars in a 21-year-old female, skin type IV, treated using 1064nm Nd: YAG laser in five sessions and 2940nm fractional erbium laser two sessions. Reduction of acne lesions counts and acne scars improvement prominent after Nd:YAG laser at least four sessions. Our patient's acne scars improved not significantly after 2940nm fractional erbium laser. Acne remission was sustained through the follow-up period. There were no post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and no exacerbation of acne lesions after the procedures. Conclusion: 1064nm Nd: YAG laser is very effective for mild to severe acne and improves new acne scars. While 2940nm fractional erbium laser is more effective for mature scars.