Measuring Erythema (red face) after IPL

Written by on September 15, 2005 in IPL, Red Face of Rosacea with 0 Comments

This is the one of the first published papers to objectively measure how IPL performs as a treatment for rosacea. The paper’s conclusion makes for encouraging reading; “As demonstrated by truly objective and quantitative means, intense pulsed light is effective for reducing rosacea-associated blood flow, telangiectasia, and erythema.”

Objective and Quantitative Improvement of Rosacea-Associated Erythema After Intense Pulsed Light Treatment. Mark K.A.; Sparacio R.M.; Voigt A.; Marenus K.; Sarnoff D.S., Dermatologic Surgery, Volume 29, Number 6, June 2003, pp. 600-604(5)

Abstract: Despite the widespread and quite successful use of various lasers and light sources to treat facial erythema, the literature contains little, if any, objective and quantitative improvement. In addition, very few studies specifically address rosacea-associated erythema.

Objective: To assess quantitatively the degree of improvement in patients with rosacea after intense pulsed light treatment. The three main parameters that were objectively measured were blood flow, telangiectasia, and erythema.

Methods: Four patients with rosacea-associated erythema and telangiectasia were treated five times at 3-week intervals with the Photoderm VL (Lumenis, Needham, MA). The 515-nm filter, a single pulse duration of 3 ms, and various fluences were used. Blood flow was measured by the scanning laser Doppler. Close-up photography ensured reproducibility and enabled quantification of telangiectasia and erythema by subsequent computer image analysis. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 1 month after the last treatment.

Results: The scanning laser Doppler demonstrated a 30% decrease in blood flow (P<0.05). A 29% decrease in actual area of the cheek occupied by telangiectasia was noted (P<0.05). A 21% decrease in the intensity of erythema was noted (P<0.05). Conclusion.

As demonstrated by truly objective and quantitative means, intense pulsed light is effective for reducing rosacea-associated blood flow, telangiectasia, and erythema.

Related Articles;

Read more about: IPL, Red Face of Rosacea

About the Author

About the Author: David Pascoe started the Rosacea Support Group in October 1998. .

Follow Rosacea Support

Subscribe via RSS Feed

Leave your comment here

Top

Subscribe to Rosacea News

Enter your email address to receive the latest news about rosacea in your inbox.