Comparative efficacy and safety of 577-nm diode laser versus 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser for inflammatory acne vulgaris: a split-face randomized study

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder with physical and psychosocial impact. Laser therapies offer targeted, non-pharmacologic treatment options. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of the 577-nm diode laser versus the 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser in treating inflammatory acne vulgaris. In this prospective, split-face randomized trial, 52 patients underwent three sessions of laser treatment at two-week intervals. One side of the face was treated with a 577-nm diode laser and the other with a 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser. Outcomes included inflammatory lesion counts, Acne Severity Index (ASI), patient satisfaction, and adverse effects. Both lasers significantly reduced inflammatory lesions (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between groups (p > 0.05). Excellent ASI response was observed in 26.9% (diode) and 28.8% (Nd: YAG) treated sides. Satisfaction scores were comparable (2.5 ± 0.6 vs. 2.6 ± 0.5; p = 0.59). Adverse events were mild and transient, with no serious complications. The 577-nm diode and 1064-nm Nd: YAG lasers are equally effective and well-tolerated for inflammatory acne, offering safe alternatives to conventional therapies.