Nonablative fractional resurfacing evidence for Melasma (epidermal)
There is a relatively good level of clinical evidence, and a majority of papers 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 2015 Last 5 years 25% Positive results 71% Negative results 1 Korea/Asia 5
Known in Korea as
Procedure and brand names vary, but the evidence above applies to the same procedure mechanism.
Key papers
tier1 Thulium laser (1927 nm) for dermatological conditions: a systematic review.
Abstract summary (English) The 1927 nm Thulium laser has emerged as a promising tool for the treatment of dermatological conditions. This systematic review aimed to analyze the efficacy and applicability of this technology. A total of 17 studies were included, involving 448 participants with various dermatological disorders.
Journal Article, Systematic Review
View on PubMedtier1 Efficacy of Non-Ablative Fractional Laser Combined With Tranexamic Acid in Melasma Treatment: A Randomized Split-Face Trial.
Abstract summary (English) INTRODUCTION: The non-ablative fractionated erbium glass laser (NAFL) 1540 nm combined with topical tranexamic acid (TXA) is a novel therapeutic approach for melasma. However, the efficacy and safety of this combination remain controversial. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of NAFL combined with TXA in treating melasma.
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Non-Ablative Fractional 1940-nm Diode Laser for Skin Resurfacing and Treatment of Benign Pigmented Lesions.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: The non-ablative 1940-nm laser induces controlled thermal damage at superficial depths without ablating the epidermis. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated a new 1940-nm fractional diode laser for improving pigmentation and skin texture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants with mild to severe benign pigmented lesions received up to three laser treatments.
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier1 The Safety and Efficacy of Treatment With a 1,927-nm Diode Laser With and Without Topical Hydroquinone for Facial Hyperpigmentation and Melasma in Darker Skin Types.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: The nonablative, fractional, 1,927-nm diode laser is theoretically a safe and effective treatment for hyperpigmentation and melasma in darker skin and may potentiate topical cosmeceutical delivery. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of a nonablative, fractional, 1,927-nm diode laser with and without topical 2% hydroquinone (HQ) cream for moderate-to-severe facial hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick skin Types...
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Nonablative 1550-nm fractional laser therapy versus triple topical therapy for the treatment of melasma: a randomized controlled pilot study.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Various treatments are currently available for melasma. However, results are often disappointing. OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of nonablative 1550-nm fractional laser therapy and compare results with those obtained with triple topical therapy (the gold standard).
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier2 Evaluation of a Low Energy, Low Density, Non-Ablative Fractional 1927 nm Wavelength Laser for Facial Skin Resurfacing.
Abstract summary (English) OBJECTIVE: We investigated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of a low energy low density, non-ablative fractional 1,927-nm laser in the treatment of facial photodamage, melasma, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. DESIGN: Prospective non-randomized trial. SETTING: Single center, private practice with a dedicated research department.
Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
View on PubMedtier2 Combination of fractional erbium-glass laser and topical therapy in melasma resistant to triple-combination cream.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common melanosis often difficult to treat. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper was to report on the safety and efficacy of non-ablative fractional photothermolysis combined with the use of triple-combination cream (TCC) on a large population with melasma resistant (i.e., with no complete/near-complete clearing) to TCC alone. METHODS: Seventy-six patients with resistant melasma underwent a...
Clinical Trial, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier2 Treatment of melasma with the 1,927-nm fractional thulium fiber laser: a retrospective analysis of 20 cases with long-term follow-up.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common acquired symmetrical hyperpigmentation that is often recurrent and refractory. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the efficacy and safety of a single administration of high-density fractional thulium fiber laser (1,927 nm) for the treatment of refractory melasma in 20 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart and photographs review of 20 women (Fitzpatrick skin type II-IV) with...
Evaluation Study, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier2 Is non-ablative 1550-nm fractional photothermolysis an effective modality to treat melasma? Results from a prospective controlled single-blinded trial in 51 patients.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common benign pigmentary disease and can pose a substantial therapeutic challenge. Although the use of non-ablative fractional photothermolysis (NFP) has gained much popularity, there are still very few evidence-based data supporting NFP in the treatment of melasma. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of NFP for the treatment of melasma in a controlled observer-blinded...
Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier0_review Dual 1550-nm Erbium Glass Fiber and 1927-nm Thulium Fiber Non-ablative Fractional Laser System Treatment in Patients With Skin of Color: A Review of Clinical Studies and Unmet Needs.
Abstract summary (English) OBJECTIVES: To review the efficacy and safety of the dual 1550-nm erbium glass fiber and 1927-nm thulium fiber non-ablative fractional laser system in patients with skin of color (ie, Fitzpatrick skin types [FSTs] III-VI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Efficacy, safety, and histologic outcomes were reviewed from 15 clinical studies examining the use of the 1550-nm or 1927-nm wavelength treatment in individuals with skin of...
Journal Article, Review
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