Noninvasive Wrinkle Reduction with the Nlite Laser: A Study of 50 Consecutive Patients

Abstract

Introduction:

Selective nonablative wrinkle reduction by laser is an exciting and appealing concept. The Nlite laser is a 585-nm pulsed dye laser that works on the concept that mild laser light injury of microvessels in the skin induces production of new collagen and may cause reduction in depth and visibility of wrinkles. This study reports on the author's experience with this new technology and the 6-month evaluation of 50 consecutive patients in his practice.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty consecutive patients were treated with the Nlite laser according to the parameters suggested by the manufacturer. All patients had preoperative photographs taken and their wrinkles graded according to the Fitzpatrick and Glogau score. Three observers performed postoperative evaluation of 37 patients at 6- to 9-month intervals using photographs. Patient survey of 42 patients was completed with statistical analysis of the results.

Results:

Three observers were asked to evaluate pretreatment and posttreatment photographs and to determine if any detectable improvement had occurred after treatment. A total of 54%, 27%, and 37% of patients were found to have detectable improvement, respectively, for the periorbital, forehead, and perioral areas (marionette and lip lines). Patients surveyed on their results indicated detectable improvement in 70%, 62%, and 70% of patients, respectively, for the periorbital, forehead, and perioral areas. Most patients and observers graded the improvement as 0–25%.

Discussion:

The Nlite laser is a noninvasive treatment that improves skin wrinkles in some patients as noted by observer evaluation of pretreatment and posttreatment photographs and by patients as perceived by patient survey. The degree of improvement does not appear to be as great as that claimed by the laser manufacturer.