Helium plasma dermal resurfacing: VISIA CR assessment of facial spots, pores, and wrinkles-Preliminary findings.

objectivesEffects of low energy, single-pass helium plasma dermal resurfacing (PDR) treatment on brown spots, enlarged pores, and wrinkles-preliminary findings.

methodsTwenty two subjects (64.6 ± 6.6 years) with Fitzpatrick Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale score (FWS) of ≤2 and seeking improvement of facial appearance were included in this subanalysis. All subjects received a single, one-pass, full face, and low power helium PDR treatment. Standard digital images were collected using the VISIA-CR (Canfield Scientific Inc.) at baseline and 3 months after treatment with images assessed for improvement in FWS and for improvements in brown spots, enlarged pores, and wrinkles by proprietary automated image processing algorithms.

resultsNearly all subjects demonstrated ≥1-point improvement in FWS and also reported improvement per modified Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale query. The numbers of brown spots and enlarged pores decreased by 45.1% and 28.3%, respectively. Stratification of brown spots data by presence or absence of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation revealed paradoxically conflicting data. The improvement detected in wrinkle area and mean wrinkle thickness was less pronounced with overall reductions of 13.4% and 4.8%, respectively. 37 Non-serious adverse events (AEs) in 22 subjects were reported with most resolving within 14 days or less, and no serious AEs were observed.

conclusionsWhile longer-term follow-up is needed, these early study results show that one single-pass, low energy helium PDR treatment improves facial skin appearance both qualitatively and quantitatively. Studies evaluating higher energy levels and multiple treatment passes are ongoing.