Efficacy of 532-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of lip melanosis

Introduction: Lip pigmentation is frequently encountered in the Dermatology outpatient department. No effective treatment is available so far. Topical treatment requires longer time and is often unsatisfactory. Aim: The aim of this work was to study the efficacy of 532-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of lip melanosis. Settings and Design: This was a prospective interventional study. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients in the age group 27-53 years were included in the study. Eight patients had diffuse pigmentation and twelve patients had focal pigmentation. Test spot was done. After topical anesthesia, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser was used. Treatment interval was 4 weeks. Follow-up was done at 1 week and then monthly. Statistical Analysis Used: Wilcoxon signed ranks test and P value. Results: Seven patients (35%) showed an excellent response with more than 75% of pigment clearance. Seven patients (35%) showed a good response, two patients (10%) moderate response, and two patients (10%) had a mild response. Two patients had recurrence after 3 months follow-up. The average number of sessions required for clearance of pigmentation was 2.5. No scarring was seen. Conclusion: 532-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is safe and effective in the management of lip pigmentation and gives rapid results.