Treatment of facial telangiectases with the diode-pumped frequency-doubled Q-switched Nd:YAG laser.

BACKGROUND

Many individuals develop telangiectases on the face as they mature. The causative factors are numerous. Telangiectases are cosmetically concerning for many of those who are affected. Because of the ability to selectively target vessels, lasers have recently become the focus for treating small facial telangiectases.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the diode-pumped frequency-doubled Q-switched neodymium: ytterium-aluminum-garnet (FD QSNd:YAG) laser (532 nm) for the treatment of telangiectases on the face.

METHODS

The diode-pumped FD QSNd:YAG laser (532 nm, 400-micron spot size, 24-msec pulse train) was used to treat telangiectases on the face of 30 adult subjects. Patients were treated once, and clinical improvement and potential adverse effects were assessed at 4 and 8 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

One session of diode-pumped FD QSNd:YAG laser treatment either improved or totally cleared all treated facial telangiectases.

CONCLUSION

The diode-pumped FD QSNd:YAG laser is effective for treating small facial telangiectases. An advantage of this laser is that it does not produce postoperative purpura.