A Pilot Study of Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG Laser Treatment in the Keratosis Pilaris

BACKGROUND: Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a keratinization disorder that is characterized by follicular hyperkeratosis, with surrounding erythema. Topical treatments are widely used, but their effects are limited. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of KP. METHODS: Total of 12 patients with KP were treated with a Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser. Ten sessions of laser treatment were delivered once every two weeks. The entire lesions were treated with the following laser settings: 4.0~5.0 J/cm(2), 4-mm spot size, and three passes. Two dermatologists' clinical evaluations and patients' satisfaction were assessed between before treatment (baseline) and at 1 month after the last treatment. RESULTS: Eleven of the twelve patients showed more than grade 2 (>25%) improvement in texture and dyspigmentation in KP lesions, respectively. A half of the patients (50%) showed more than 50% improvement in the skin texture. Regarding dyspigmentation, five patients (41.7%) showed more than 50% improvement. Eleven out of twelve participants were satisfied (>25% of the Patients' self assessment) with the procedure. No significant adverse effect was observed. CONCLUSION: Although the Q-switched 1064-nm laser treatment may not be the first line therapy for KP, it might be a new treatment option for the patients with recalcitrant KP.