The effect of 1540-nm fractional erbium-glass laser in the treatment of androgenic alopecia.

BACKGROUND

Androgenic alopecia is common, chronic dermatologic disorder. A variety of lasers and light sources appear to be safe and effective in the treatment of AGA.

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 1540-nm fractional erbium glass laser in the treatment of AGA.

PATIENTS/METHODS: This was an interventional therapeutic study for the treatment of patients with AGA. The patients received 10 sessions with 1540-nm fractional erbium glass laser at 2-week intervals. The assessment of the response was done before and at the end of follow-up period, both objectively (the change in the density of terminal hair and the diameter of the hair shaft) and subjectively (patient satisfaction). Any adverse effects were documented during the study.

RESULTS

Forty-seven out of 51 patients completed the study. After 5 months of laser treatment, the density of hair and hair thickness was significantly increased in both males and females (P value .001).

CONCLUSION

The 1540-nm fractional erbium-glass laser seems to be an effective and safe option for treatment of patients with AGA. The improvement was accomplished in a short period.