The effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor containing ointment on wound healing and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation prevention after fractional ablative skin resurfacing: A split-face randomized controlled study

Abstract

Background: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is one of the important peptides in wound healing process. The effects of EGF have been increasingly studied in various types of ulcers. However, data on postablative laser resurfacing wound is still limited.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of the topical EGF ointment on wound healing process and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) prevention after fractional ablative laser resurfacing.

Materials and methods: This is a randomized split-face study. Nineteen healthy subjects were enrolled and completed follow up protocol. Patients received single treatment of fractional carbon dioxide laser on both cheeks. After randomization, each patient was assigned to apply one side of the face with topical EGF ointment and another side with petrolatum. Wound healing was evaluated by duration of scab shedding, duration of postlaser erythema, erythema index, and transepidermal water loss on the daily follow up period of seven days after treatment. PIH was evaluated at 2, 3 weeks and 1, 2 months follow up by photographs and melanin index.

Results: Most of patients were female with Fitzpatrick skin phototype III to V. Comparing with control (petrolatum), EGF treated side showed no significant difference in duration of scab shedding, duration of postlaser erythema, erythema index, and transepidermal water loss (P-value = .58, .22, .78, and .51, respectively). Incidence of PIH was 52.6% on EGF side and 57.9% on petrolatum side, however, it was not statistically different (P = .56). The melanin index was also not different as well (P = .96).

Conclusion: Topical EGF might provide significant wound healing stimulation for chronic wound more than acute wound. Further studies, especially in post laser wound or other cosmetic purposes are needed.

Keywords: epidermal growth factor; fractional laser resurfacing; postinflammatory hyperpigmentation; postlaser erythema; skin barrier function; wound healing.