Selective non-ablative wrinkle reduction by laser.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Skin resurfacing and wrinkle removal is a large medical laser market. However, the rate of undesirable side effects is high and sometimes is not warranted by the aesthetic improvement observed. The authors have evaluated the potential benefits of an approach to selective non-ablative wrinkle reduction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This technique selectively targets the microvasculature which plays a key role in the stimulation of enhanced collagen production.

RESULTS: The study reported shows that application of the laser parameters described enhances collagen production by an average of 84%, measured 72 hours after a single laser treatment. This is achieved whilst leaving the skin barrier intact and with no adverse pigmentary changes. The study further shows that a cosmetic improvement is observed with an average value of 1.88 reduction in wrinkle appearance as measured on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Severity scale. This improvement was achieved with one brief treatment and no reported incidence of side effects.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the treatment modality described may be a new approach to the treatment of wrinkles.