AbstractIntroduction: Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common benign inherited primary follicular keratotic disorder. Various topical and laser treatments have been used with variable success. The concept of employing fractional carbon dioxide laser (10,600 nm) appeared to address the issue at a deeper tissue level than that targeted by routinely used topical therapies. By ablating the lesions and producing small holes in the dermis, fractional CO2 lasers can alleviate follicular papules, keratinous plugs, and pigmentation by releasing micro epidermal necrotic debris through transdermal elimination.
Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of the fractional carbon dioxide laser in the treatment of KP.
Patients and Methods: This prospective randomized study included 10 female patients with upper limb KP treated by fractional carbon dioxide laser. Each patient received four consecutive treatment sessions at four-week intervals.
Results: Significant clinical improvement was observed. Excellent improvement was achieved in (9/20) patients (45%), good improvement was achieved in (10/20) patients (50%), and moderate improvement was achieved in (1/20) patients (5%) at 4 weeks follow-up.
Conclusion: Fractional carbon dioxide laser is safe and effective for the treatment of KP.
