Effect of Smooth Pulsed Light at 400 to 700 and 870 to 1,200 nm for Acne Vulgaris in Asian Skin

BACKGROUND: Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment is effective for acne in Caucasians, but no significant improvements have been observed in studies on Asian skin. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of IPL on acne vulgaris in Asian skin. METHODS: Twenty-five Japanese patients, mainly of skin phototypes III or IV and moderate to severe acne, were treated five times with IPL at wavelengths of 400 to 700 nm and 870 to 1,200 nm. Results were evaluated in terms of changes in numbers of noninflammatory comedones and inflammatory papules, pustules, and cysts and acne grade before and after treatment. RESULTS: After the first exposure, numbers of noninflammatory and inflammatory acne lesions decreased to 36.6% and 43.0%, respectively, of their pretreatment values. After five treatments, they decreased to 12.9% and 11.7%, respectively, of their pretreatment values. Acne grade improved significantly over the course of the study. Transient erythema, with or without burning or stinging, was noted in 20 (80%) patients, but no major adverse reactions were observed. CONCLUSION: IPL with dominant wavelengths of 400 to 700 nm had a satisfactory effect on acne vulgaris in Asians.