Use of a variable long-pulse alexandrite laser in the treatment of facial telangiectasia.

BACKGROUND

The alexandrite laser selectively targets melanin and hemoglobin. We used the alexandrite laser with variable pulse widths to treat facial telangiectasia.

METHODS

Nineteen patients were enrolled in this study, which consisted of two parts: a series of test spots over a range of pulse durations (3-80 ms) and treatment over a larger area based on the pulse width-specific outcomes from the test spots. The final follow-up visit was 12 weeks after irradiation.

RESULTS

The 40-ms pulse width achieved the optimal balance of pain tolerance, epidermal tolerance, and vessel reduction. Mean fluence was 88 J/cm(2), with a 6-mm spot. Overall, a 48% reduction in vessels was noted after one treatment. Side effects were minimal.

CONCLUSIONS

In fair-skinned patients with large telangiectasia, the alexandrite laser is a good option for vessel reduction.