Acne scarring: A review of available therapeutic lasers

Abstract

Background and objective: The utilization of lasers in dermatology has greatly expanded in recent decades. Acne scarring is a common indication in which lasers play an important therapeutic role.

Study design/materials and methods: Available lasers include traditional ablative lasers, such as carbon dioxide and erbium lasers, traditional non-ablative lasers, such as neodymium, diode, alexandrite, pulsed dye lasers and intense pulse light, as well as both ablative, and non-ablative fractional laser systems.

Conclusion: We sought to provide a framework for understanding the various types of lasers available to treat acne scars and review the primary literature pertaining to the efficacy, safety, and advantages of each laser discussed.

Keywords: ablative; acne vulgaris; carbon dioxide; erbium; infrared; intense pulsed light; non-ablative; pulsed-dye; skin.