Background: Pulsed-dye lasers (PDL) are one of the standard therapies for rosacea, but alternatives are needed.
Aims: To compare the efficacy and safety of the variable-sequenced, large-spot 532 nm KTP laser to the 595 nm PDL in treating rosacea.
Materials and methods: A prospective, controlled, evaluator-blinded study. Patients were treated with either a KTP or PDL with 1-3 sessions at intervals of 6-8 weeks. A follow-up visit was scheduled on Week 6 post-treatment. Clinical outcome was assessed by computer-assisted analysis and by patients and two blinded dermatologists. Pain intensity during treatment and adverse events were documented.
Results: Forty-five patients (mean age 51 years) were allocated in a 2:1 ratio to either the KTP or PDL. Erythema in both treatment arms decreased significantly (p < 0.01). Clinical evaluation revealed high improvement. Mean pain intensity was significantly lower with the KTP (2.5/10) than with the PDL (4.1/10). Both lasers showed a good safety profile. Relevant purpura was only seen in the PDL group.
Conclusions: Both the variable-sequenced, large-spot KTP and the PDL demonstrated comparable efficacy in treatment of rosacea. Regarding safety, the KTP exhibited fewer post-treatment reactions. The KTP might serve as a potential alternative to PDL in the treatment of rosacea.
Keywords: KTP; erythema; pulsed dye laser; rosacea; telangiectasia.
© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.