Abstract
BACKGROUND: The effectiveness and safety of 730-nm picosecond laser for treating acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules remain uncertain. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of using the 730-nm picosecond laser for ABNOM removal. METHODS: This is a retrospective review of patients who were presented to the clinic between January 2020 and January 2024 for the treatment of ABNOM with 730-nm picosecond laser alone. The efficacy of the laser was assessed based on the Quartile Improvement Scale, using high-resolution photographs evaluated by blinded dermatologists. RESULTS: A total of 72 Chinese participants with Fitzpatrick skin types III to IV were included in the study. The overall effective rate of the treatment was 75%, achieved after an average of 2.42 ± 0.75 sessions. A subgroup analysis of 41 patients who completed 3 treatment sessions showed statistically significant differences in outcomes across the sessions. The mean improvement scores for sessions 1, 2, and 3 were 1.63 ± 1.04, 2.66 ± 1.22, and 3.29 ± 1.17, respectively ( p < .01). No cases of hypopigmentation were observed. The incidence of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was 5.56%. CONCLUSION: The 730-nm picosecond laser is a safe and effective treatment for ABNOM in Chinese patients.