A Novel Macrophage-Activating Gel Improves Healing and Skin Quality After CO(2) Laser Resurfacing of the Chest

After laser resurfacing, it is imperative that an appropriate postoperative regimen is followed for optimal wound healing. There is currently no consensus about which agents should be used. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel macrophage-activating gel in a Phase 2B trial to be used after fractionated ablative laser resurfacing of the chest. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two adults who received fractionated CO(2) laser resurfacing of the chest were randomized (active or placebo) for 5 consecutive days after procedure. Skin quality at baseline and follow-up was assessed by a blinded evaluator using the Fitzpatrick–Goldman Wrinkle Scale. Subject satisfaction with skin healing and quality was also assessed. RESULTS: At 28 days according to the Fitzpatrick–Goldman Wrinkle Scale, 85% of subjects achieved an improvement of at least 33% for the active group versus 50% in the placebo group (absolute difference 35%; p = .04). Similarly, 75% of subjects achieved an improvement score of at least 33% in elastosis in the active group versus 35% in the placebo group at 28 days (40% absolute difference; p = .011). CONCLUSION: This study confirms the potent effects of the novel macrophage-activating gel for optimization of skin healing and quality after laser resurfacing of the chest.