Abstract
BACKGROUND: Melasma is an acquired skin problem. It characterises sun-exposed areas, particularly on the face, with irregular borders and bilateral distribution. With this study, we want to strengthen the scientific literature regarding the use of a 675-nm laser device for the treatment of women and men with facial melasma pigmentary and vascular symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen patients were treated for facial melasma. A total of three sessions at 30-day intervals were performed with a 675-nm laser device. A five-point Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale was used to separately assess the improvement of the patient's skin 3 months after the last treatment (T1) compared to baseline (T0). The pain during treatment was measured using a Visual Analog Scale of 10 points. The non-ablative laser system used emits red light with a wavelength of 675 nm through a 13 × 13 mm scanning system. RESULTS: At T(1) , a consistent improvement in the pigmentary and vascular components was visible. This is always combined with a considerable reduction in vascular expression. CONCLUSION: Our research shows that individuals with Fitzpatrick phototypes II to III can treat facial melasma with the 675-nm laser source system without risk. Due to its interaction with melanin, collagen and haemoglobin chromophores, as well as its excellent capacity to penetrate tissues with less heating, this system is promising in the treatment of pigmentary and vascular illnesses such as melasma. The great success of the technology we used came from the reduced levels of inflammation produced after the treatments and the low energy level implied.