Background and Objective: Fractional photothermolysis (Fraxel) is a novel 1550 nm fiber lased laser system that creates localized microscopic treatment zones of thermolysis. The objective of our study is to look at the effectiveness and complications of Fraxel laser treatment in Asian skin rejuvenation. Study Design/Materials and Methods: 20 patients (skin type III=9, IV=11) were included in the study. A 1550nm Erbium dropped glass fiber laser (Fraxel) was used to treat both cheeks for patient with photo damaged skin. Patients were treated monthly for 5 treatment sessions. Results: The overall degree of patients' satisfaction was rated as 7.4 (range 5.5-9.8). Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was observed in 1 patient and resolved after the use of 2% hydroquinoine. There was no blister formation, scarring or hypopigmentation. Conclusion: Ablative laser resurfacing while can be effective in the treatment of acne scar and wrinkle reduction, is associated with significant degree of adverse effects especially hyperpigmentation when used in dark skin patients. Fractional photothermolysis is effective for Asian skin rejuvenation with minimum adverse effect.
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