Application of a New Intense Pulsed Light Device in the Treatment of Photoaging Skin in Asian Patients

BACKGROUND: Intense pulsed light (IPL) technology has long been used in the treatment of photoaging skin. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new IPL device in the treatment of photoaging skin in Asian patients. METHODS: One hundred fifty-two Chinese women with photoaging skin were enrolled in this open-labeled study. Subjects received four IPL treatments at 3- to 4-week intervals. Changes of photoaging were evaluated using a global evaluation, an overall self-assessment, a Mexameter, and a Corneometer. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-nine of 152 patients (91.44%) experienced a score decrease of 3 or 2 grades, according to the dermatologist. One hundred thirty-six of 152 patients (89.47%) rated their overall improvement as excellent or good. The mean skin melanin index (MI) and erythema index values deceased with each session. MI on forehead and EI on cheilion decreased most significantly. Adverse effects were limited to mild pain and transient erythema. CONCLUSION: IPL treatment is a safe and effective method for photoaging skin in Asian patients. Adverse effects were minimal and acceptable.