Laser safety in isotretinoin use: online survey of public perception

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Background The safety of laser therapy in patients taking isotretinoin is controversial. Recent evidence suggests that laser during isotretinoin treatment is safe. Our study aims to assess public perception and willingness to undergo laser intervention while receiving isotretinoin. Methods An online-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2019 and March 2020. Information on participants knowledge about isotretinoin precautions with laser therapy and their willingness to undergo laser intervention while on isotretinoin therapy was collected. Results Out of 509 respondents, almost one-third used laser therapy while on isotretinoin treatment. Those who did not use laser therapy most commonly attributed to isotretinoin treatment (43%). Forty-two percent of participants thought that laser therapy while on isotretinoin is harmful. Almost half of the participants were aware that current guidelines recommend waiting for six months after isotretinoin. Nearly, half of the participants decided to postpone laser therapy for acne scars even after knowing that recent studies reported the safety of laser therapy for acne scars while on isotretinoin. Conclusion Even with the knowledge of recent safety data of laser during isotretinoin therapy, a significant proportion of patients are still concerned about potential complications. Increasing awareness regarding the safety of laser skin therapy during isotretinoin treatment might be needed.