Fractional 1064 nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser for Asian skin rejuvenation: clinical efficacy and the role of photoprotective behaviours

Skin rejuvenation is a vital aspect of dermatology aimed at countering intrinsic and extrinsic aging effects, such as wrinkles, dyspigmentation, and texture irregularities. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of the fractional 1064 nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser in a Vietnamese cohort, addressing unique challenges posed by Asian skin's high melanin content. 44 Vietnamese participants treated at the University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City for facial skin rejuvenation were retrospectively analyzed. Outcomes were assessed via standardized imaging and patient-reported satisfaction scores, with statistical analyses applied to evaluate changes in skin indices and identify epidemiological correlations. Measurements using the VISIA^® system indicated statistically significant reductions in wrinkles, spots, and texture irregularities starting from the first month of treatment (p < 0.01) and sustained through three months (p < 0.0001). Adverse effects were minimal, with transient erythema being the most common (68.18%), and pain levels were generally mild to moderate. Epidemiological analysis revealed that prolonged sun exposure adversely affected UV spot improvement (p = 0.01), while consistent mask-wearing correlated with enhanced outcomes for pigmentation reduction (p = 0.03). This study underscores the fractional 1064 nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser's effectiveness as a safe and versatile tool for skin rejuvenation, particularly for Asian populations prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Recommendations for consistent photoprotection and addressing environmental factors further optimize results. Future studies should explore long-term outcomes and comparative efficacy with alternative modalities.