Objectives: Ablative laser resurfacing has been considered to be the most effective option for skin rejuvenation. However, the epidermis is significantly damaged during this process and this can be associated with potential adverse effects, especially in dark skin patients. Recently, plasma skin rejuvenation has been investigated. There are no reports on plasma treatment of patients with darker skin. The objective of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of plasma skin rejuvenation in Asian patients. Materials and Methods: Twenty female Asian patients were enrolled in the study. Three full face treatments were performed at monthly intervals with the plasma device, using energy settings of 1-1.5J. Patients were seen 1 week after and 3 months after the last treatment. A facial analysis system and melanin index were used to objectively evaluate each patient. The patients were also evaluated for any side effects from the treatment as well their degree of satisfaction with the procedure.
Results: Skin tone was significantly improved after plasma treatment (p<0.01). The average VAS score was 3.7 +/- 1.4SD and all patients easily tolerated the treatments. The average re-epithelization time was 4.9 +/- 1.5SD days. The improvement of wrinkles and enlarged pores was observed and the average patient’s satisfaction was 5.4 +/- 1.9SD. Temporary and local hyperpigmentation was observed in two patients and this hyperpigmentation disappeared within three months. Hypopigmentation and scarring were not observed.
Conclusions: Low energy plasma treatment is clinically effective and is associated with minimal complications in Asian patients. Ablative laser treatments are not common in the Asian population because of the high risk of side effects. However, plasma treatment seems to be a safe and effective option for skin rejuvenation in Asian skin patients.