A Single Center, Prospective, Randomized, Blinded Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of a Topical Tripeptide/Hexapeptide Anhydrous Gel When Used Pre- and Post- Hybrid Fractional Laser for the Treatment of Acne Scars

Platelet-rich plasma for androgenetic alopecia: intradermal injection or microneedle delivery?

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the clinical effectiveness of two methods of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) administration for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA): microneedle delivery and intradermal injection. The study also evaluated adverse reactions associated with both methods.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty patients with AGA were selected according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The scalp of each patient was divided into two treatment areas along the midline, each randomly assigned to receive PRP either via intradermal injection (n = 20) or microneedle delivery (n = 20). The treatment comprised three sessions spaced 1 month apart. Scalp photographs and trichoscopic measurements were obtained before the first session and 6 month after the final session. Patient outcomes were assessed 6 month after the last treatment using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and a self-satisfaction questionnaire. Pain levels during the first session were measured using a Numerical Rating Scale, and adverse reactions were recorded throughout the study.

RESULTS

Six month after completing all treatments, no significant differences were observed between the microneedle delivery and intradermal injection groups for hair density, hair diameter, single hair follicle ratio, or trichoscopic findings (p > .05). However, the microneedle group reported significantly lower pain levels than the intradermal injection group (p < .001). No adverse events were observed during the treatment period.

CONCLUSION

The clinical efficacy of microneedle delivery of PRP was comparable to that of intradermal injection for AGA treatment, with the added benefit of significantly lower pain levels. This suggests that microneedle delivery may be a promising alternative for AGA management.

An Assessment of Current Clinician- and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Acne Scarring and Dyspigmentation: A Scoping Review

Acne-associated scarring and dyspigmentation (ie, erythema, hyperpigmentation) are common sequelae with significant psychosocial impact, but little is known about what measures are most often used to assess these outcomes. This scoping review evaluates the use of current patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and clinician-reported outcome measures (ClinROMs) for acne scars and dyspigmentation. For scars, 7 PROMs and 18 ClinROMs were used, with most being unvalidated. Similarly, for dyspigmentation, 4 PROMs and 8 ClinROMs were identified, but no validated PROMs were identified. These results highlight reliance on unvalidated measures in research and clinical trials and suggest the need for developing high-quality validated measures, particularly PROMs, to improve research quality and develop better treatments.

The 2910-nm Fiber Laser Is Safe and Effective for Improving Acne Scarring

BACKGROUND

Acne scarring results from the inflammation associated with acne papules, which alters dermal collagen, typically producing depressed scars. Lasers have been used to remodel skin improving the texture and appearance of acne scars. Herein, we investigate a new 2910 nm, erbium-doped, fluoride glass, fiber laser for improving acne scars. This novel laser delivers up to 5000 Hz low-energy pulses, providing a unique treatment modality.

METHODS

Fourteen subjects with rolling and/or boxcar acne scars were enrolled in this study. Thirteen subjects completed the final visit and received three treatments with the 2910 nm fiber laser at 6-8-week intervals. Eight subjects were Fitzpatrick type II and five were Fitzpatrick type III. Digital images were taken pre- and 1- and 3-months posttreatment and evaluated by two blinded reviewers in a randomized fashion for improvement. Subjects and the treating physician completed a Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) before treatment and at each visit to subjectively evaluate treatment effect. Histological analysis was performed on ex vivo lower eyelid skin samples. Side effects were evaluated by the treating physician and included erythema, edema, and pinpoint bleeding.

RESULTS

Evaluation of blinded digital images revealed a mean improvement of 47.3% ± 14.2% (mean ± SEM) 3 months following the final treatment. GAIS scores demonstrated improvement as evaluated by both the subjects and the treating physician. Side effects averaged trace-to-mild erythema, edema, and pinpoint bleeding.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that the 2910 nm, erbium-doped, fluoride glass, fiber laser is safe and effective for improving the appearance of acne scars.

Practical Aspects of Acne Scar Management: ASAP 2024

Acne scars are one of the most common complications of acne. They can significantly affect the patient's quality of life. Often, several types of atrophic acne scars are observed simultaneously; therefore, consideration must be given to the type of scar while choosing the treatment modality. Effective treatment is not only important to prevent and improve acne scars but also crucial in preventing psychosocial effects. Treatment of acne scars requires an algorithmic approach that targets each component of the scars, and combination therapy on a patient-specific basis may offer the best chance for significant improvement. The goal of the current article is to discuss the practical aspects of management of atrophic acne scars using the vast modalities of treatment available. The panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons, each one with at least 20 years of experience in acne scar treatment, participated in a series of 'Practical Aspects of Acne Scar Management' (ASAP) meetings: ASAP 2024. ASAP meetings were organized by "Scar Forum India" from March 2023 to July 2023 in four Indian cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata), each one for a duration of at least three hours. During these meetings and discussions, panelists reviewed and discussed the acne scar-related literature, their clinical experience in its management, available treatment options, along with recent advances. Consequently, a summary of the discussion and practical approach for the management of acne scars is developed. It was concluded that, though there is no specific guideline available to optimize acne scar management despite the multitude of treatment options, the best results can be achieved through the synergy of multiple treatment modalities and using the algorithmic approach.