BACKGROUND: The alexandrite laser selectively targets melanin and hemoglobin. We used the alexandrite laser with variable pulse widths to treat facial telangiectasia. METHODS: Nineteen patients were enrolled in this study, which consisted of two parts: a series of test spots over a range of pulse durations (3-80 ms) and treatment over a larger area based on the pulse width-specific outcomes from the test spots. The final follow-up visit was 12 weeks after irradiation. RESULTS: The 40-ms pulse width achieved the optimal balance of pain tolerance, epidermal tolerance, and vessel reduction. Mean fluence was 88 J/cm(2), with a 6-mm spot. Overall, a 48% reduction in vessels was noted after one treatment. Side effects were minimal. CONCLUSIONS: In fair-skinned patients with large telangiectasia, the alexandrite laser is a good option for vessel reduction.
BACKGROUND: The alexandrite laser selectively targets melanin and hemoglobin. We used the alexandrite laser with variable pulse widths to treat facial telangiectasia. METHODS: Nineteen patients were enrolled in this study, which consisted of two parts: a series of test spots over a range of pulse durations (3-80 ms) and treatment over a larger area based on the pulse width-specific outcomes from the test spots. The final follow-up visit was 12 weeks after irradiation. RESULTS: The 40-ms pulse width achieved the optimal balance of pain tolerance, epidermal tolerance, and vessel reduction. Mean fluence was 88 J/cm(2), with a 6-mm spot. Overall, a 48% reduction in vessels was noted after one treatment. Side effects were minimal. CONCLUSIONS: In fair-skinned patients with large telangiectasia, the alexandrite laser is a good option for vessel reduction.