A prospective, split-Face, comparative study of combined Q-switch Nd:YAG laser and microdermabrasion versus Q-switch Nd:YAG laser alone in treatment of melasma

BackgroundMelasma is a common disorder of hyperpigmentation with a great effect on quality of life. In an uncontrolled study, a novel combination treatment approach, using a low-fluence Q-switched (QS) Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) Laser in conjunction with microdermabrasion was shown to be effective in clearance of melasma(1). ObjectiveThe purpose of the current prospective, controlled study was to determine if microdermabrasion, when combined with Nd:YAG laser, produced significant improvement of melasma compared to Nd:YAG laser alone. MethodsTwenty patients with bilaterally distributed facial melasma were subjected to QS-Nd:YAG laser therapy with microdermabrasion on one side and laser therapy alone on the other side of their faces every four weeks for three sessions. Photographs were obtained before treatment, one month and three months postoperatively. ResultsAlthough both sides improved from baseline to the 24th week, there was no statistically significant difference between both sides in regards to MASI (Melasma Area and Severity Index) as well as PGA (Patient Global melasma improvement Assessment) scores. ConclusionCombination therapy with Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and microdermabrasion seems to be as effective as Q-switched Nd:YAG laser alone and doesnt have any advantage or disadvantage in comparison with conventional laser therapy.