The effects of a high glycerin content hydrogel premolded mask dressing on post-laser resurfacing wounds.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Laser resurfacing for the rejuvenation of facial skin remains a popular cosmetic procedure. Postoperative care for laser resurfacing is important to optimize healing, reduce pain and minimize complications.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the efficacy of the new dressing against placebo (Vaseline® cream) after Er:YAG laser resurfacing.

METHODS:

Fifteen patients between 45 and 72 years of age with facial wrinkles were enrolled in the study. Patients underwent full-face Er:YAG procedures. The wounds were then dressed: one side of the face was treated with Vaseline and the other with a hydrogel dressing. Erythema, edema, pigmentation, average time of re-epithelization, pain score, itching, clinical evaluation of infection, crust formation and acidity were documented.

RESULTS:

The hydrogel dressing decreased postoperative morbidity. The site treated by hydrogel showed a shorter epithelial healing time than the Vaseline site. The dressing relieved the immediate pain of facial resurfacing as well as preventing crust formation and itching.

CONCLUSION:

A hydrogel dressing is a better and suitable alternative to the open technique to manage post-laser wound healing.

• Authors: Gokhan Okan, Marta I Rendon
• Journal: Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology (J Cosmet Laser Ther) Vol. 13 Issue 4 Pg. 162-5 (Aug 2011) ISSN: 1476-4180 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21699364 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate
• Glycerol

Topics

• Aged
• Bandages, Hydrocolloid
• Edema (etiology)
• Erythema (etiology)
• Face (surgery)
• Female
• Glycerol
• Humans
• Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate (chemistry, therapeutic use)
• Lasers, Solid-State (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Middle Aged
• Pain, Postoperative (etiology)
• Pigmentation
• Postoperative Care
• Rejuvenation
• Time Factors
• Wound Healing