Efficacy of Fractional Erbium Laser Combined with PRP Therapy in the Treatment of Melasma: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: The combination of fractional Erbium laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has shown efficacy in treating skin conditions such as melasma. Erbium laser regenerates and remodels tissue stimulate rejuvenation, while PRP can improve healing and skin regeneration. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of fractional erbium laser combined with PRP therapy in the treatment of melasma. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Dermatology, Bangladesh Specialist Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from May 2022 to April 2024, including 60 melasma patients. Participants were divided into two groups of 30 each: Group A received only Fractional Erbium Laser therapy, while Group B received the therapy combined with PRP. Result: In this study, mean ages in group A and group B were 35.8 (± 8.2) and 36.4 (± 7.9), respectively. Initial MASI scores were 15.2 (± 3.6) for group A and 15.5 (± 3.4) for group B. Significant MASI reduction was seen in the group B at 7.2 (± 2.4) versus 9.5 (± 2.5) in the group A (p = 0.02). Satisfaction was higher in group B, with 30% reporting “very satisfied” versus 10% in the group A (p = 0.04). Adverse events, including erythema and PIH, were lower in group B. Recurrence rates at three months favored group B (80% no recurrence, p = 0.04). Conclusion: The study concludes that combining Fractional Erbium Laser therapy with PRP significantly enhances treatment outcomes for melasma compared to laser monotherapy.