5‐Aminolevulinic Acid Photodynamic Therapy With Broadband Light Versus Broadband Light Alone in Treating Rosacea: A Retrospective, Controlled Study

Background Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder primarily affecting the face. While conventional treatments include drug interventions and light device interventions. However, their efficacy is often limited. New therapeutic approaches are therefore needed. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of broadband light (BBL) with photodynamic therapy (PDT) (BBL‐PDT) and BBL therapy alone in treating rosacea. Methods This retrospective study included 52 patients with rosacea treated with either BBL therapy alone or BBL‐PDT. Efficacy was assessed using Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) success, Clinical Erythema Assessment (CEA) success, telangiectasia improvement, lesion counts, and Rosacea Quality of Life (RosaQoL). Adverse reactions were also recorded. Results At the 12th week of treatment, IGA success was achieved in 26.92% patients in the BBL group and 69.23% in the BBL‐PDT group ( P = 0.002); CEA success rates were 61.54% (BBL) and 73.08% (BBL‐PDT) ( P = 0.38). Flushing improvement occurred in 65.38% (BBL) and 61.54% (BBL‐PDT) ( P = 0.77), whereas telangiectasia improvement occurred in 57.69% (BBL) and 61.54% (BBL‐PDT) ( P = 0.78). The BBL‐PDT group showed significantly fewer lesions ( P < 0.001) and lower RosaQoL scores ( P = 0.003). However, they reported higher levels of pain ( P < 0.0001) and more local adverse effects. Conclusion BBL‐PDT is more effective than BBL alone in reducing inflammatory lesions and improving quality of life in rosacea.