Fractional CO2 (FxCO2) Laser Therapy Combined with Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment–Based Moist Wound Healing for Facial Pigmented Scars: A Retrospective Observational Study

Yue Jin,1 Qingmei Jin,1 Jiahui Zhi,2 Zhenlong Zheng,1 Chenglong Jin1,21Department of Dermatology, the Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University (Yanbian Hospital), Yanji, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Dermatology, Suzhou Mylike Cosmetic Hospital, Suzhou, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhenlong Zheng; Chenglong Jin, Department of Dermatology, the Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University (Yanbian Hospital), Yanji, Jilin, 133000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-15526771600; +86-15526770921, Email [email protected]; [email protected]: Treatment of pigmented scars requires simultaneous scar remodeling, pigment regulation, and prevention of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser therapy combined with moist healing for pigmented scars.Patients/Methods: This retrospective self-controlled study included 34 patients with facial pigmentation scars treated with fractional CO2 laser therapy. Postoperative wound care consisted of a standardized moist healing regimen using topical erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. Treatment efficacy was assessed at baseline and 3 months after the final treatment using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and a four-grade efficacy scale. Treatment parameters, number of sessions, and adverse reactions were recorded.Results: Scar appearance significantly improved after a mean of 5.44 ± 1.80 treatments. The total POSAS score decreased from 83.97 ± 4.16 points before treatment to 33.56 ± 3.27 (P < 0.0001). The overall effective rate was 100.00%. Adverse reactions, mainly transient erythema and edema, were mild. Mild PIH occurred in three patients and resolved spontaneously within 3 months. No serious adverse events, including infection, permanent depigmentation, or scar aggravation, were observed.Conclusion: Fractional CO2 laser therapy combined with moist healing effectively improves facial pigmented scars with a favorable safety profile.Keywords: fractional laser, moist healing, pigmented scars, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation