Efficacy and Side Effects of Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser for Acne Scars, Keloids, and Striae Albae in the Dermatovenereology Clinic of Tertiary Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background : Fractional Carbon Dioxide ( CO 2 ) LASER has better efficacy compared to conventional LASER in treating scar tissue such as acne scars, keloids, and striae albae. However, a population with darker skin has a higher risk of side effects, especially in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Purpose : To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of fractional CO 2 LASER in new patients with acne scars, keloids, and striae albae in the Dermatovenereology outpatient clinic. Methods : Retrospective analysis was done on 42 medical records of patients who met the inclusion criterion, which was those who have undergone fractional CO 2 LASER treatments. The efficacy and side effects of the therapy were identified and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17 program. Result : A total of 42.9% of patients underwent fractional CO 2 LASER treatments for acne scars, while 31% and 26.1% of patients received treatments for keloids and striae albae, respectively. There was a statistically significant decrease in the degree of acne scar (2.72 ± 0.83), keloid height (2.2 ± 0.405), and striae width (0.39 ± 0.02). The statistically significant side effects were hyperpigmentation (59.5%), crustae (26.2%), erythema ≥ for 4 days (19%), and new acne (19%). Conclusion : Fractional CO 2 LASER was effective for treating scar tissue (acne scars, keloids, and striae albae) with a higher incidence of side effects in population with darker skin and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.