Revolutionizing Acne Scar Treatment in Indian Skin with Fractional Picosecond Laser

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Patients of Asian descent with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V who experience facial acne scars are a relatively under-researched demographic in medical literature, with limited studies specifically addressing their unique skin characteristics and treatment responses. Traditional treatments have variable efficacy and risk of complications. A novel technique that has shown potential in managing scars is the Q-Switched, 1064 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser with a fractional beam profile. Picosecond lasers, with extremely short pulse durations, minimize thermal damage and induce tissue remodeling, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk. <b><i>Aim:</i></b> This prospective study was proposed to judge the efficacy of 1064 nm fractional picosecond laser for treating atrophic acne scars in the Indian skin type. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Twenty-two patients completed the study; all were treated at monthly intervals for three sessions. Evaluation based on Investigator's Global assessment along with patient satisfaction scores was carried out for all patients. The safety of the laser was evaluated by noting down adverse effects. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Fourteen patients showed improvement of 26-50% by Investigator's Global Assessment, which was similar to the patient satisfaction scores. Post-treatment edema, pinpoint bleeding, and mild erythema were the only side effects noted. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was not noted in any of the patients. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Fractional picosecond laser can be considered a viable and safe option to treat acne scars in patients with dark skin type.