A Combination of Non-ablative Laser and Hyaluronic Acid Injectable for Postacne Scars: A Novel Treatment Protocol

Background: Postacne facial scars are often associated with significant patient distress. Energy-based devices, including non-ablative lasers, are commonly used for the treatment of postacne scarring. There is relatively limited data regarding the combination of non-ablative lasers with hyaluronic acid injections for postacne scarring.

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a non-ablative 1,540-nm erbium:glass laser combined with a hyaluronic acid injectable for the treatment of postacne scars.

Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 12 patients who underwent the full treatment protocol. A before and after blinded clinical evaluation was performed independently by two dermatologists and graded on a scale from 0 (indicating a worsening of scarring) to 4 (indicating a 76-100% improvement in scarring). Pain perception, adverse effects, and patient satisfaction were evaluated.

Results: A mean correct blinded before and after evaluation by two dermatologists was 96 percent. Patients demonstrated mild to moderate improvement as assessed by a quartile scale of improvement (25-50%). Mild transient pain was reported by most patients. The satisfaction level of the patients was high (4 out of 5).

Limitations: The limitations of our study include the small cohort, retrospective design, and lack of a histological correlation.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that this combination treatment using 1,540-nm fractional erbium:glass laser and hyaluronic acid injections is both safe and effective for patients with postacne facial scars.