Fractional Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser treatment improves facial skin quality with zero downtime

This study aimed to conduct a dose-ranging assessment of the cavitation potential of a fractional Q-switched Nd: YAG laser system and then to assess its skin rejuvenating effect on photoaged facial skin. Abdominal skin samples were subjected to increasing doses of laser energy (300–2400 mJ/p). The optimal dose range was then applied in a trial in which 36 female subjects with Glogau scale type 1–3 facial skin wrinkles underwent four laser treatment sessions. The investigator assessed changes in fine lines, skin tone, tightness, and texture, and three blinded assessors rated changes in overall appearance 1 and 3 months after the last session. Subjects rated pain, downtime, and satisfaction with outcomes. Cavitation in the subepidermal layer was noted in all abdominal samples subjected to medium or high laser settings. Optimal-dose laser treatments resulted in improved (27.8%) or much improved (72.2%) facial wrinkles within 3 months of treatment. By 3 months post-treatment, the investigator noted ≥ 3-point improvements in skin tone, tightness and texture in all subjects. Subjects reported on a pain-free experience, zero downtime, and high satisfaction (94.4%). Fractional Q-switched 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser therapy can refine skin texture, tone, and overall appearance, with no pain or recovery time.