FRACTIONAL CO2 LASER VS. RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING FOR ACNE SCAR IMPROVEMENT: EFFICACY, SAFETY, AND PATIENT SATISFACTION
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Keywords
Acne scars, Fractional CO2 laser, Radiofrequency microneedling, Efficacy, Patient satisfaction, Scar treatment.
Abstract
Introduction: Acne scarring is a prevalent dermatological concern, particularly among young adults, often resulting in long-lasting cosmetic and psychological effects. Among various treatment options, fractional CO2 laser and radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) have emerged as effective modalities for scar remodeling.
Objective: To compare the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of fractional CO2 laser and radiofrequency microneedling in the treatment of atrophic acne scars.
Materials and Method: The randomized comparative study was conducted at Dermatology Department, Le Lotus Clinique Peshawar Pakistan in the duration from December, 2024 to May, 2025. A total of sixty study participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A participants were treated with fractional CO2 laser whereas in Group B RFMN was used. Each had three sessions four weeks apart from each other. The study used the grading system by Goodman and Baron and patient satisfaction questionnaires to measure the effected outcomes.
Results: There was commendable clinical improvement in both groups. Clinical results were marginally better with the use of CO2 Laser, but RFMN had a more improved safety profile, fewer side effects, and greater patient satisfaction.
Conclusion: Both choices are effective, but RFMN has a better safety record and is the patient's preferred choice.
References
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Ghazala Said
Consultant Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician, FCPS, Dermatology Department, Le Lotus Clinique Peshawar Pakistan
Naseeba Abdul Rasheed
Consultant Dermatologist, FCPS, Medicine and Allied, Dermatology Department, Bolan Medical Complex Hospital Quetta, Pakistan
Sofia Sarwar
Senior Registrar, Consultant Dermatologist, Dermatology Department, Bioflex Aesthetic clinic Islamabad