Integrated Topical Skincare Enhances Picosecond Laser Treatment Outcomes for Photoaging: A Prospective Split-Face Trial

BACKGROUND: The 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array effectively treats photoaging in Asian patients but may cause transient adverse effects due to temporary disruption of the skin barrier. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a topical integrated skincare regimen containing CE Ferulic serum, Discoloration Defense (3% tranexamic acid), and Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 (CE/DD/242) following treatment with a 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array (DLA) in an Asian population. METHODS: This single-center, randomized, evaluator-blinded, split-face controlled study enrolled 35 patients aged 25-63 years with facial photoaging. Each patient underwent three laser treatment sessions at four-week intervals. Patients applied Phyto Corrective serum and sunscreen to one cheek (control side) and adjunctive CE/DD/242 to the other cheek (treatment side). Clinical efficacy was evaluated using the VISIA® Complexion Analysis System, the FocuSkin® Skin Analyzer, and a participant satisfaction questionnaire. Self-reported redness or swelling was recorded by telephone follow-up. RESULTS: Laser treatment significantly improved pores (p=0.0011), brown spots (p=0.0003), and skin moisture (p=0.0001). Adjunctive integrated skincare further enhanced wrinkle reduction (adjusted difference - 2.33, p=0.018) and texture improvement (adjusted difference - 0.63, p=0.027). Females over 46 years demonstrated greater wrinkle reduction (p=0.0437), while males showed greater elasticity improvement (p=0.0003). Temporary erythema occurred in 13 of 35 patients, while 18 reported no adverse effects. Patient satisfaction scores were higher on the CE/DD/242 treatment side. CONCLUSIONS: The 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser with a diffractive lens array improves photoaging and overall skin quality. Adjunctive integrated skincare (CE/DD/242) provides synergistic clinical benefits with minimal adverse effects, resulting in greater improvements in wrinkles and skin texture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: Evidence obtained from at least one properly designed randomized controlled trial. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .