Q‐Switched 1064‐nm Nd: YAG laser versus fractional carbon dioxide laser for post acne scarring: A split‐face comparative study

Objectives Many treatment modalities are available for post acne scarring. However, the response to the treatment is extremely variable among patients. Aim The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of Q‐switched Nd: YAG (1064 nm) and fractional CO2 (10,600 nm) lasers in the treatment of atrophic post acne scars. Methods This study included 20 patients with atrophic facial post acne scars graded according to Sharquie's score. All subjects received four sessions of laser treatment with a 4‐week interval between the sessions. The study was designed as a double‐blinded, comparative, split‐face study applying Q‐switched 1064‐nm Nd:YAG laser to the right side of the face and fractional CO2 laser to the left side. Results Q‐switched 1064‐nm Nd: YAG laser achieved significantly higher improvement percentage when compared to fractional CO2 lasers (33.33% versus 17.37% Sharquie's score reduction, respectively). There was a significant negative correlation between the percentages of improvement and the patients’ age on both sides and a significant positive correlation with the baseline Sharquie scores on both sides. Conclusion Q‐Switched 1064‐nm Nd: YAG laser could be a promising safe option for the management of atrophic post acne scars.