Rosacea treatment with 532 nm KTP versus 595 nm pulsed dye laser—A prospective, controlled study

Background Pulsed‐dye lasers (PDL) are one of the standard therapies for rosacea, but alternatives are needed. Aims To compare the efficacy and safety of the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot 532 nm KTP laser to the 595 nm PDL in treating rosacea. Materials and Methods A prospective, controlled, evaluator‐blinded study. Patients were treated with either a KTP or PDL with 1–3 sessions at intervals of 6–8 weeks. A follow‐up visit was scheduled on Week 6 post‐treatment. Clinical outcome was assessed by computer‐assisted analysis and by patients and two blinded dermatologists. Pain intensity during treatment and adverse events were documented. Results Forty‐five patients (mean age 51 years) were allocated in a 2:1 ratio to either the KTP or PDL. Erythema in both treatment arms decreased significantly ( p < 0.01). Clinical evaluation revealed high improvement. Mean pain intensity was significantly lower with the KTP (2.5/10) than with the PDL (4.1/10). Both lasers showed a good safety profile. Relevant purpura was only seen in the PDL group. Conclusions Both the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot KTP and the PDL demonstrated comparable efficacy in treatment of rosacea. Regarding safety, the KTP exhibited fewer post‐treatment reactions. The KTP might serve as a potential alternative to PDL in the treatment of rosacea.