Cosmetic Concern Research Articles

A Comprehensive Review of Face Serums for Pigmentation: Ingredients, Mechanisms, and Efficacy

Skin pigmentation disorders are a common cosmetic concern affecting individuals of all ages and ethnicities. Face serums have emerged as a potent solution due to their ability to deliver concentrated active ingredients effectively. This review explores the role of serums in treating pigmentation, focusing on their key ingredients, efficacy, and safety. Natural and chemical actives, such as vitamin C, kojic acid, and hydroquinone, have shown promising results in clinical studies. However, challenges such as skin sensitivity and formulation stability persist. The paper also highlights market trends, consumer preferences for clean beauty products, and the potential of personalized skincare and biotechnology in advancing pigmentation treatment. This comprehensive analysis aims to guide consumers and researchers toward effective and sustainable solutions for managing pigmentation issues. Keywords-Skin, pigmentation, potent.

Dermatologist Characteristics Associated With Outlier Performance of Destruction for Benign Lesions.

Destruction of a benign skin lesion should not be billed to Medicare if the lesion is solely a cosmetic concern. Reducing unnecessary benign destructions could lower Medicare costs. Evaluate benign destruction rates relative to premalignant destruction rates and identify factors associated with frequent benign destruction among dermatologists. This study analyzed 2022 Medicare benign and premalignant destructions procedure counts for dermatologists. Of the included 5,605 dermatologists, 180 (3.2%) were outliers, performing benign destructions at a rate exceeding 1.18 per premalignant destruction. Forty-nine (0.9%) were extreme outliers, with ratios above 1.76. Dermatologists with over 26 years of practice were more likely to be outliers or extreme outliers, whereas those in the West had lower odds. Reducing outlier benign destruction rates to the 80th percentile could save Medicare $1.17 million, with potential savings of up to $10.3 million if applied broadly. A small number of dermatologists bill for benign destructions at high rates. Targeted educational interventions may reduce unnecessary Medicare expenditures.

Mechanisms of efflorescence of alkali-activated slag

Efflorescence presents not only as a cosmetic concern but also as a structural issue, which impacts the performance of alkali-activated materials (AAMs). In this study, the mechanisms of efflorescence of alkali-activated slag (AAS) pastes are investigated. First, the efflorescence of AAS pastes with different alkali dosages (3 %, 5 % and 7 %), activator types (sodium hydroxide (NH) and sodium silicate (NS)), exposure atmospheres (ambient, N2 and 0.2 vol% CO2), and relative humidities (40 %, 60 % and 80 %) was observed. Subsequently, leaching tests were performed and the impacts of efflorescence on AAS pastes at different heights were studied. It was found that a lower relative humidity facilitated more rapid and severe efflorescence. The positioning of efflorescence products was dependent on the porosity of the matrix. Compared to NH pastes, NS pastes subjected to semi-contact water conditions were more vulnerable to cracking problems, which turned out to be exacerbated by the formation of efflorescence products. A new method to quantify efflorescence was developed and it corresponded well with both efflorescence observations and leaching experiments. Furthermore, a competitive reaction between Ca and Na in the presence of carbonate ions was identified. CaCO3, a representative product of natural carbonation, was rarely found in the regions where efflorescence products (sodium carbonate) formed. Regarding compressive strength, NS pastes were more adversely affected by efflorescence than NH pastes.

Intraparotid Facial Nerve Schwannoma - A Case Report

Abstract Rationale: Intraparotid facial nerve schwannoma (IPFNS) is a rare entity. Diagnosing these tumours is challenging as multiple differential diagnoses exist for swellings in the infraauricular region. Delay in diagnosis can lead to adverse outcomes. Patient Concerns: A 27-year-old female presented with swelling over the left infraauricular region, which concerned her cosmetic appearance. Diagnosis: It was initially misdiagnosed with imaging techniques computerised tomography (CT scan) and fine-needle aspiration cytology, leading to a diagnostic dilemma. Treatment: Superficial parotidectomy was planned and intraoperatively, a cystic lesion was seen adherent to the temporal branch of the facial nerve, which was resected along with the nerve branch. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis as facial nerve schwannoma. Outcomes: The patient’s cosmetic concern was resolved but there was loss of wrinkles over the ipsilateral forehead region. No recurrence was seen. Take-Away Lessons: IPFNS often causes a diagnostic dilemma and an appropriate and timely diagnosis is required to decrease the morbidity and undertreatment.

Combined fractional CO2 laser with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 50% versus fractional CO2 Laser alone in the treatment of macular amyloidosis: clinical and histopathological assessment.

Macular amyloidosis (MA) could be of cosmetic concern with a significant psychological impact for patients, and its treatment is challenging. To compare the efficacy and safety of combined fractional CO2 laser with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 50% versus fractional CO2 laser alone in the treatment of macular amyloidosis. Twenty patients with macular amyloidosis were treated with monthly session of fractional CO2 laser only in one side of the lesion (area A), and fractional laser followed by application of DMSO 50% solution in the other side of the lesion (area B). All patients were evaluated clinically, by dermoscope and histopathology before and 3months after the end of 4 treatment sessions. Both treatments showed significant decrease of pigmentation after treatment (p < 0.001). There was non-significant decrease in rippling on both sides (p = 0.06). The median itching score dropped significantly after treatment from 9 to 3.5 in area A (laser only) and to 2 in area B (laser and DMSO), with non-significant difference between both areas (P = 0.244). Dermoscopic features after treatment showed fading and decreasing in multiple features in both areas A and B, with non-significant difference between the 2 areas. Histopathologically, there was significant reduction in the amyloid deposition after treatment in both areas A and B without significant difference between both areas. both fractional CO2 laser combined with topical DMSO 50% and fractional CO2 laser alone are safe and effective treatment options for MA with significant clinical improvement.

Papillary carcinoma arising from de novo ectopic thyroid tissue within thyroglossal duct cyst: A rare case report

The most common congenital anomaly of thyroglossal duct is a thyroglossal duct cyst, but carcinoma arising from a thyroglossal duct cyst is a rare phenomenon. Carcinomas involving thyroglossal duct cysts are mostly papillary carcinomas. Definitive diagnosis of carcinomas involving thyroglossal duct cysts is done through surgical excision and subsequent histopathological examination. Most carcinomas arise de novo from ectopic thyroid tissue within thyroglossal duct cysts, but the direct spread of papillary carcinomas arising from the thyroid gland can also present themselves as carcinomas involving thyroglossal duct cysts in a minority of patients. Clinical presentation in most of the patients with carcinoma of thyroglossal duct cyst is quite similar to that of the patients with histopathologically diagnosed thyroglossal duct cyst, i.e., a painless anterior midline neck swelling with cosmetic concern and no other significant symptom(s). Careful clinical examination, imaging techniques, fine needle aspiration cytology, etc., can be helpful in indicating the presence of carcinoma preoperatively. Management of patients with thyroglossal duct cyst carcinoma involves only the Sistrunk procedure in the majority of cases. However, in a minority of patients, management by Sis trunk procedure with additional total thyroidectomy (with or without dissection of lymph nodes of the neck) and adjuvant chemo and radio-ablation therapies are needed. Here, we report a case of a 17-year-old female with papillary carcinoma involving thyroglossal duct cyst who presented with a submental swelling and was eventually managed by Sis trunk procedure, total thyroidectomy, and adjuvant therapies for optical cure. Decisions for the management of her cancer were taken through multidisciplinary interactions at tumor board meetings and by judging her surgical and therapeutic needs based on her clinical, radiological, and pathological findings.

Facial pore refining by targeting dermal and epidermal functions: Assessment across age and gender.

Conspicuous facial pores are benign but represent a cosmetic concern for men and women. Recent works described dermal and epidermal impairments as clinical causes of enlarged pores. Morphological modifications of skin at the site of pores were associated with collagen density loss, possible alteration of extracellular matrix and abnormal differentiation of keratinocytes. A composition containing mannose-6-phosphate (Active Complex) was designed to address these different aspects of pore enlargement. Invitro and exvivo evaluations were conducted in different models mimicking disturbance of dermal and epidermal functions. The pore refining activity of Active Complex was assessed in two clinical trials studying a Caucasian women cohort and an Asian men cohort. At the dermal level, Active Complex upregulated collagen I and decorin synthesis, and genes encoding collagens I, III, V, VII, XVII; suggesting its ability to favor collagen fiber organization and anchorage. The downregulation of matrix metalloprotease, involved in extracellular matrix degradation, reinforced the protective effect of Active Complex in the dermis. Active Complex down modulated differentiation markers in keratinocytes as well as genes involved in cell renewal. Study of reconstructed human epidermis modeling keratinocyte hyperproliferation revealed that Active Complex mitigated two markers of this state: number of nuclei in the stratum corneum and involucrin expression. Clinical trials confirmed the pore refining activity of Active Complex on men and women of different ages and ethnicities; -24% total skin pore area after 56 days of application on women, and -30.2% on men after 7 days. This work demonstrates the interest to target dermal and epidermal modifications described in conspicuous pore area, especially dermis fiber organization, to address this cosmetic concern.

Addisonian Pigmentation - The Great Mimicker - A Review.

Skin colour usually depends upon melanin, haemoglobin, and carotenoids. Pigmentary disorders indicate an increased amount of melanin, leading to a darker colour of the skin, called hypermelanosis. Addison's disease is a rare endocrinal disorder with severe oral and systemic manifestations. Any form of diffuse skin hyper-pigmentation which is more pronounced on sun-exposed areas mimics Addison's disease and is called Addisonian pigmentation. Pigmentation often precedes other manifestations by months to years and hence can lead to early diagnosis and can prevent life-threatening adrenal crisis. The most common cause of adrenal insufficiency in developing countries is tuberculosis. A similar pattern of pigmentation has been reported in Cushing's syndrome, ectopic ACTH-producing tumours, vitamin B12 deficiency, and thyrotoxicosis. Addisonian pigmentation can be a manifestation of multiple systemic diseases; hence, an inter-disciplinary approach is needed with extensive clinical and laboratory evaluation. It is not merely a cosmetic concern. Not much data are available in the literature regarding this entity. This brief review serves as an important source for clinicians to stay up-to-date regarding the history, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, and management of this entity.

Congenital melanocytic nevi and risk of melanoma

The presence of congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) is determined in utero. The location, size, and number of CMN may be of cosmetic concern with significant psychosocial implications. They may also be associated with symptoms such as pruritus, eczema/xerosis, and skin fragilit; however, the most medically concerning issue is the association of CMN with the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma, extracutaneous melanoma, and neurocutaneous melanocytosis (NCM). Patients with CMN are currently risk-stratified based on the projected adult maximum diameter of the largest CMN and the number of CMN (satellites) present. In small and medium CMN the absolute risk of developing cutaneous melanoma is estimated to be approximately 0.3% with a relative risk of 9.5. While patients with large CMN are at increased risk for developing primary cutaneous melanoma within the CMN, they are also at increased risk for developing primary melanoma within the central nervous system (CNS) in association with CNS melanocytic deposits, an entity known as NCM. The absolute risk for developing melanoma in patients with large CMN is estimated to be between 1.25-10% with a relative risk between 52-1046. Regarding the risk for the presence of NCM, the risk correlates with the number of CMN, with the lowest risk in those with a single CMN and with risk escalation as the number of CMN increase. We have provided an overview of the existing evidence about the risk of melanoma and NCM in patients with CMN. The role of the clinical examination, dermatoscopy, MRI scanning of the CNS, and the role of surgery in the management of CMN of varying sizes is discussed.

Autologous Fat Grafting-A Panacea for Scar Tissue Therapy?

Scars may represent more than a cosmetic concern for patients; they may impose functional limitations and are frequently associated with the sensation of itching or pain, thus impacting both psychological and physical well-being. From an aesthetic perspective, scars display variances in color, thickness, texture, contour, and their homogeneity, while the functional aspect encompasses considerations of functionality, pliability, and sensory perception. Scars located in critical anatomic areas have the potential to induce profound impairments, including contracture-related mobility restrictions, thereby significantly impacting daily functioning and the quality of life. Conventional approaches to scar management may suffice to a certain extent, yet there are cases where tailored interventions are warranted. Autologous fat grafting emerges as a promising therapeutic avenue in such instances. Fundamental mechanisms underlying scar formation include chronic inflammation, fibrogenesis and dysregulated wound healing, among other contributing factors. These mechanisms can potentially be alleviated through the application of adipose-derived stem cells, which represent the principal cellular component utilized in the process of lipofilling. Adipose-derived stem cells possess the capacity to secrete proangiogenic factors such as fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor, as well as neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factors. Moreover, they exhibit multipotency, remodel the extracellular matrix, act in a paracrine manner, and exert immunomodulatory effects through cytokine secretion. These molecular processes contribute to neoangiogenesis, the alleviation of chronic inflammation, and the promotion of a conducive milieu for wound healing. Beyond the obvious benefit in restoring volume, the adipose-derived stem cells and their regenerative capacities facilitate a reduction in pain, pruritus, and fibrosis. This review elucidates the regenerative potential of autologous fat grafting and its beneficial and promising effects on both functional and aesthetic outcomes when applied to scar tissue.

Investigation of the anti-skin aging effects of taurine through mendelian randomization analysis of its relationship with immune cells.

Aging skin, exacerbated by external factors like UV radiation and pollutants, is a major cosmetic concern. Taurine, renowned for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may combat skin aging. We performed mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal link between taurine and immune cells linked to skin aging. To investigate the association between taurine and immune cells using mendelian randomization, to thereby explore the mechanism through which taurine exerts anti-aging effects on the skin via immune modulation. A MR approach was employed using taurine-level data from the Ieu Open GWAS Project and immunocyte traits from a large European cohort. MR-Egger regression, weighted median estimation, and inverse variance weighting all provided statistical insights into causality. Sensitivity analyses assessed the heterogeneity and pleiotropy among the genetic instruments used. MR analysis identified a causal relationship between taurine levels and 10 immunocyte phenotypes, with taurine found to be negatively and positively associated with three and seven phenotypes, respectively. Sensitivity analysis revealed no significant heterogeneity or pleiotropy, suggesting reliable MR findings. This study provides insights into the immunological pathways by which taurine contributes to skin anti-aging effects, suggesting that increasing taurine levels could offer a novel strategy for anti-aging skincare.

Outstanding user reported satisfaction for light emitting diodes under-eye rejuvenation.

The under-eye region is an area of significant cosmetic concern. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has emerged as an effective, safe, inexpensive, and convenient treatment for skin rejuvenation. Herein, we aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a LED under-eye device for under-eye rejuvenation, as measured by objective and patient reported outcomes. Eleven participants self-administered treatment using a commercially available LED device emitting red (633nm) and near infrared (830nm) light for six weeks. Standardized photographs and questionnaires were administered at baseline and six weeks. Photographic digital analysis indicated an improvement in under-eye wrinkles at six weeks compared to baseline, with a reduction in wrinkle score from 20.05 to 19.72. However, this finding was not statistically significant. Participants self-reported consistent improvements in under-eye wrinkles, texture, dark circles, bags, pigmentation, and erythema. All participants reported a high degree of comfortability, ease of use, and satisfaction with the eye device. The participants noted no moderate or severe adverse events and few reports of transient expected outcomes such as mild erythema. The participants' self-reported improvementsand high user satisfaction, and the device'sfavorable safety profile, highlights the benefits of at-home LED devices for under-eye rejuvenation. Future randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes could further establish the safety and efficacy of at-home LED under-eye treatments.

Combination Foam and Liquid Sclerotherapy for Lower Extremity Reticular and Telangiectatic Veins: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

Lower extremity reticular and telangiectatic veins are of common cosmetic concern. To retrospectively evaluate results of lower extremity sclerotherapy using a combination of foam and liquid sclerosing agents. A retrospective chart review of sclerotherapy patients at a dermatology practice (January 2014 to April 2023) was performed. Eight hundred and nine patients (775 women and 34 men) with a mean age of 49.6 ± 12.2 (18-84) years underwent a mean 1.4 ± 0.7 (1-7) sessions. Multiple different sclerosing agents were used, with 0.2% sodium tetradecyl sulfate foam/liquid predominating, although 72% glycerin liquid and 0.25% to 0.5% polidocanol foam/liquid were also used. Coagula occurred in 61.0% of patients at 2 weeks and 6.4% at 3 months, whereas postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation was seen in 5.0% and 19.1% of patients at the same time points. Both were more common after first-round treatment, each with a trend toward decreased frequency with increasing session number. Telangiectatic matting was found in 2.3% of 3-month follow-up patients. Edema, superficial venous thrombophlebitis, migraines, and ulceration were rarely seen. Significant clinical improvement was noted in 72.0% of treatments. This retrospective chart review, the largest to date of its kind, confirms the safety and efficacy of cosmetic lower extremity sclerotherapy with a combination of foam and liquid sclerosing agents.

Comparing Energy-Based Devices for Striae Improvement: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Striae distensae (SD) are cutaneous lesions that are caused by hormones or mechanical stress leading to rapid expansion of skin. Therefore, SD are now a cosmetic concern. However, improving SD is notoriously difficult. Among different treatments, energy-based devices (EBDs) are much more effective and controllable. The aim of this review was to determine the most effective type of EBD for improving the appearance of striae. The study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The population comprised patients suffering from striae. Different types of EBDs used to improve striae were compared. The primary outcome of the reduction in the width of striae was evaluated. A random-effects model was performed. The means and standard deviations were extracted. Eighteen randomized controlled trials were included. The network meta-analysis revealed that after a comparison among the 4 types of EBDs, no significant differences were observed in the reduction of striae width. Radiofrequency, ablative lasers, nonablative lasers, and intense pulsed light are all effective treatments for reducing the striae width. None of them was superior to the others. However, radiofrequency and ablative lasers may have the highest chance of improving the appearance of striae.

Argyrosis: A Case Of Caruncle And Conjunctival Discoloration Due To Homeopathic Colloidal Silver Eye Drops

While argyria and argyrosis are largely only of cosmetic concern, healthcare providers and the public should be aware of the possibility of their development with chronic silver exposure, especially due to its permanence once developed.

Effective improvement methods for striae distensae: A novel approach utilizing laser-induced micro-jet injectors with poly-d,l-lactic acid.

Striae distensae (SD), or stretch marks, result from rapid stretching of the skin due to various factors. Conventional treatments often yield unsatisfactory results, leading to the exploration of alternative methods. Laser-induced microjet technology offers a promising approach for drug delivery to target areas. This study investigates the efficacy of using a microjet injector with poly-d,l-lactic acid for treating SD. Four female participants with SD were treated with poly-d,l-lactic acid solution using a microjet injector over five sessions. Patients were assessed based on severity scales before and after treatment. Topical anesthetics were applied to minimize discomfort. Injection techniques were optimized to reduce side effects such as bleeding and pain. All patients showed significant improvement in SD appearance after 5-7 treatments. Assessment scales indicated positive outcomes both immediately after treatment and at the 32-week follow-up. Minimal side effects, primarily petechiae, were observed. Laser-induced microjet technology offers several advantages, including rapid drug delivery and mechanotransduction effects, promoting skin regeneration. Poly-d,l-lactic acid injections demonstrated effectiveness in treating SD, particularly when delivered via microjet injectors. Patients expressed high satisfaction due to the procedure's minimal invasiveness and quick recovery. Utilizing a needleless microjet injector with poly-d,l-lactic acid shows promise as a treatment for SD, typically requiring 5-7 sessions for optimal results. Mild petechiae may occur as a common side effect. This approach offers an effective and minimally invasive alternative for addressing this common cosmetic concern.

Illuminating the shadows: an insight into periorbital hyperpigmentation

Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH), also referred to as periorbital melanosis or dark eye circles, is a common dermatological concern characterized by darkening of the skin around the eyes. This review article aims to comprehensively analyze the current understanding of POH, encompassing its epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and available treatment modalities, and focusing on patients’ skin color. The review also consolidates a grading system for POH and emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis using clinical examination, assessment scores, Wood’s lamp, ultrasonography, and dermoscopy. Treatment modalities range from non-pharmacological measures to topical agents, including kojic acid, alpha-arbutin, vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide, retinoids, and hydrating agents. The manuscript explores the efficacy of various skin-lightening agents, such as hydroquinone, and introduces emerging treatments like caffeine, carotenoids, lactic acid, curcumin, and vitamin K. Additionally, it delves into procedural treatments like chemical peels, lasers, blepharopigmentation, mesotherapy, platelet-rich plasma therapy, fillers, autologous fat transplantation, and surgical interventions. The comprehensive approach to understanding and managing POH presented in this review aims to provide clinicians with valuable insights into the diverse therapeutic options available for this challenging cosmetic concern.

Impact of Chemotherapy-Induced Nail Changes on Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Centre.

Chemotherapy has increased survival rate in patients but is associated with systemic as well as cutaneous adverse effects. Among cutaneous adverse effects, nail changes caused by chemotherapy are often overlooked. But these changes are a major cause of cosmetic concern and negatively affect the quality of life (QoL) of patients. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy-induced nail changes on QoL of patients with malignancy and to compare the severity of impact on QoL in various nail changes. This hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted for a period of 12 months. Only patients on chemotherapy who developed nail changes were included in the study. A nail-specific QoL questionnaire was used. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of nail changes on QoL. The mean QoL score of 188 patients was 32.37 ± 7.9. The mean QoL score of females was more than that of males. QoL was statistically more significant in younger age groups [<20 years: 46.71 ± 1.7] (P < 0.001). Patients with pigmentary nail changes (melanonychia and leukonychia) had more significant impact on QoL (P < 0.001). There is a significant impact of chemotherapy-induced nail changes on QoL of patients leading to psychological distress, reduced self-confidence and social limitation. This highlights the importance of proper counselling of patients beforehand regarding the possibility of associated nail changes during and after the chemotherapy regimens.

Efficacy of Radiofrequency Diathermy versus Focused Ultrasound Therapy, Both Combined with Intermittent Pneumatic Compression, for Edematous Fibrosclerotic Panniculopathy Treatment: A Randomized Intrasubject Assessor-Blind Trial

Background. Edematous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy (EFP), commonly known as cellulite, is a cosmetic concern affecting a large percentage of women. Radiofrequency diathermy (RFD) and focused ultrasound (FUS) are noninvasive treatments proposed for the reduction of EFP. Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of RFD versus FUS, both combined with intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) for the treatment of EFP in female thighs. Methods. A randomized intrasubject assessor-blind trial was conducted (NCT03474523) on 40 lower limbs of 20 women with EFP grades I, II, or III according to the Nürnberger &amp; Müller scale. Each lower limb was randomly assigned to receive either seven RFD sessions or seven FUS sessions, both combined with IPC. Measurements were collected at baseline and post-treatment, including lower limb circumferences at different levels, weight, grade of EFP, and physical activity level. Results. Both RFD and FUS treatments, both combined with IPC, showed significant intragroup reduction in thigh circumference measurements for RFD at 15 cm (p=0.001), 20 cm (p=0.024), and midpoint (p=0.008) and for FUS at 15 cm (p=0.001), 20 cm (p=0.010), midpoint (p=0.008), 30 cm (p=0.020), and 40 cm (p=0.048). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two treatments. Weight did not change with treatment, and physical activity levels did not significantly affect EFP improvement. Conclusion. Both RFD and FUS, combined with IPC, were effective noninvasive methods for treating EFP. This study found that there was no significant difference between RFD and FUS in terms of efficacy in reducing EFP in the thighs. Therefore, both techniques can be used to treat EFP from a clinical perspective. Further studies with objective measurements are required to confirm these results and to guide clinical decision-making. This trial is registered with NCT03474523.

Shedding Light on Acne Scars: A Comprehensive Review of CO2 vs. Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Er:YAG) Laser Therapy.

Acne scars pose a significant cosmetic concern and can have a profound impact on individuals' self-esteem and quality of life. Laser therapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality for improving the appearance of acne scars by promoting collagen remodeling and tissue regeneration. This comprehensive review compares two commonly used laser modalities, CO2 and erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG), focusing on their mechanisms of action, efficacy, safety profiles, and patient outcomes. While CO2 lasers offer deeper tissue penetration and the potential for more significant improvement in severe acne scars, Er:YAG lasers provide a gentler approach with a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Recommendations for clinical practice include tailoring treatment approaches to individual patient characteristics, educating patients about treatment expectations and post-treatment care, considering combination therapies for enhanced outcomes, and implementing regular follow-up care. Areas for further research include long-term outcome studies, investigation of laser therapy in ethnically diverse populations, exploration of combination therapies, and evaluation of emerging laser technologies. This review aims to provide clinicians and patients with valuable insights to inform treatment decisions and optimize outcomes in managing acne scars.