Laser toning qswitched or picosecond evidence for Melasma (epidermal)
This procedure group has the highest level of PubMed evidence for this indication, and the papers broadly support its effectiveness.
Grade combines the quantity and quality of the research, while direction is a separate signal showing how the papers assess effectiveness.
Includes meta-analysis/SR Median year 2018 Last 5 years 36% Positive results 62% Negative results 5 Korea/Asia 33
Known in Korea as
Procedure and brand names vary, but the evidence above applies to the same procedure mechanism.
Key papers
tier1 Efficacy and safety of Q-switched laser combined with intense pulsed light in treating melasma: a meta-analysis.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common dermatological disorder characterized by hyperpigmented facial patches, which significantly impacting patients' quality of life and imposing substantial economic burdens. Given the multifaceted impact of melasma, there is a pressing need for effective therapeutic strategies. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of combining Q-switched (QS) laser with intense pulsed...
Journal Article, Systematic Review
View on PubMedtier1 Lasers and Energy-Based Devices for Treatment of Pigmented Lesions With Histologic and Ultrastructural Imaging Correlation: A Systematic Review.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Understanding histologic and ultrastructural changes in pigmented lesions after laser/energy-based device (EBD) treatment is essential for elucidating treatment mechanisms, optimizing outcomes, and preventing complications. OBJECTIVE: To summarize histologic and imaging findings after laser/EBD for pigmented lesions. METHODS: A systematic review using PubMed identified 39 studies examining laser/EBD...
Systematic Review, Journal Article, Review
View on PubMedtier1 The Efficacy of Laser Therapy in Melasma Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Abstract summary (English) INTRODUCTION: Laser treatment is one of the most common methods currently used to treat melasma. Here in, we reviewed RCTs with at least one laser therapy arm used in net form for treatment, so as to assess the use of laser therapy for melasma treatment with a degree of certainty. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed on the effectiveness of laser therapy for melasma treatment in the period from 2010...
Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
View on PubMedtier1 A pilot randomized split-face trial comparing fractional Q-Switched ruby laser and 1064-nm Q-Switched nd: YAG laser in Chinese women with melasma running titile: fQSRL vs. QSNY in melasma.
Abstract summary (English) Laser therapy plays an essential role in the management of melasma. However, direct comparisons between the fractional Q-switched ruby laser (fQSRL) and the Q-switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser (QSNY) are limited, particularly in Asian populations. Therefore, we conducted this study to compare the clinical efficacy, safety, and patient-reported outcomes of fQSRL versus QSNY in the treatment of melasma.
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study
View on PubMedtier1 Multimodality Management of Skin Hyperpigmentation.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Skin hyperpigmentation, caused by excessive melanin production, presents both aesthetic and psychological concerns. The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is a key treatment modality, with effectiveness influenced by factors such as skin type, laser fluence, and treatment frequency. A multimodal approach combining laser therapy and medical treatment may enhance outcomes.
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Comparative efficacy and safety of the novel Picosecond Alexandrite Laser and the traditional combined Q-switched and long-pulse Nd: YAG lasers in melasma treatment: a randomized evaluator-blinded trial.
Abstract summary (English) Melasma significantly impacts life quality, and while various laser therapies show promise, rigorous comparative studies, especially between the novel Picosecond Alexandrite Laser (PSAL) and the traditional combined modality of Q-switched and Long-pulse Nd: YAG Lasers (QLNYL), are notably lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy and safety of these modalities, providing insights into...
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study
View on PubMedtier1 Novel 532-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser for the treatment of melasma and rejuvenation: a prospective, randomized controlled comparison with 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common pigmentary and photoaging disorder. Although various treatments, including 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS-Nd: YAG) laser toning, are available for melasma, results are often unsatisfactory. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) in patients with melasma and facial rejuvenation.
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study
View on PubMedtier1 Comparison of 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser versus 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser for melasma: A randomized, split-face controlled, 2-year follow-up study.
Abstract summary (English) OBJECTIVES: Pulsed laser treatment of melasma has shown some promising results. To compare the effectiveness and safety of 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser (PSAL) fitted with diffractive lens array (DLA) versus 1064-nm Q-switched neodynimum:yttrium aluminum garnet laser (QSNYL) for the treatment of melasma. METHODS: We conducted a randomized, split face controlled, 2-year follow-up study.
Randomized Controlled Trial, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
View on PubMedtier1 Efficacy and safety of laser-related therapy for melasma: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a prevalent, persistent hyperpigmentation disorder that negatively affects the psychological health of patients. However, the treatment outcome remains unsatisfactory due to the complexity of pathogenesis, recurrence characteristics, and relatively high morbidity. OBJECTIVES: To compare the performance of laser-related therapies in improving the melasma area severity index (MASI) score of...
Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, Comparative Study, Review
View on PubMedtier1 Efficacy of topical vitamin C in melasma and photoaging: A systematic review.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Vitamin C is a micronutrient present in high concentrations in normal skin and a highly prescribed cosmeceutical, well known for protecting against ultraviolet-induced pigmentation and regulating collagen production. However, there is a lack of studies evaluating the efficacy of topical vitamin C in photoaging and melasma, with this systematic review being the first to assess the existing evidence. AIM:...
Systematic Review, Journal Article
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