Non‐sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 resurfacing of photoaged facial skin: Preliminary clinical report

Abstract

This study evaluates results, adverse side effects and downtime of the protocol ‘ActiveFX’ for photodamaged facial skin. A non‐sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 laser with specific settings is used in addition to a new computer pattern generator (CPG). From September 2006 to March 2007, 55 patients underwent this new ‘soft’ single‐session, single‐pass and full‐face ablative fractional treatment. The patients were evaluated at baseline and 1 and 3 months after the treatment using a five‐point scale. Seven aspects of photodamaged skin were recorded: global score, fine lines, mottled pigmentation, sallow complexion, tactile roughness, coarse wrinkles and telangiectasias. The results were compared with a non‐parametric statistical test, the Wilcoxon's exact test. Eight patients received a double‐pass treatment on the crow's feet regions and the improvement of the coarse wrinkles was analyzed with a quartile grading scale. Significant differences (p<0.05) between baseline and 1 and 3 months post‐treatment were observed for all features except telangiectasias. Coarse wrinkles presented a good improvement only in the regions submitted to a double‐pass. Minimal and isolated adverse side effects were noted and the downtime was very low. Non‐sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 light treatment (‘ActiveFX’) can be considered an excellent alternative for photodamaged facial skin.