Purpose: 1927nm fractional thulium fiber laser (TFL) has been shown to be effective in improving skin appearance by reducing pigmentation and loss of elasticity caused by photoaging. Supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) has been utilized for chemical peeling with rejuvenation effect. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of combined TFL and SSA treatment for photoaging. Methods: Thirty-six patients with moderate-to-severe photoaging were enrolled and the two sides of the participants' face were randomly assigned to receive 30% SSA combined with TFL or TFL monotherapy. TFL was administered to both sides of the face on four occasions at four-week intervals, while the side receiving combined treatment additionally underwent eight chemical peels of 30% SSA fortnightly, supplemented by daily applications of 2% SSA. For the TFL-alone side, an equivalent dose of a placebo preparation was applied. The photographs, photoaging scores, melanin index (MI), erythema index (EI), skin hydration, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), dermal thickness, elasticity index, and skin rebound time were assessed.
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photodamage score
Timeframe: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 16 weeks