From the Guidelines
Results from pulsed dye laser treatment are typically seen within 1-2 weeks, with optimal results visible after 4-6 weeks following a single treatment. The exact timing of results can vary depending on several factors, including the condition being treated, skin type, and treatment parameters 1. Some studies suggest that combination therapies, such as using salicylic acid (SA) prior to pulsed-dye laser (PDL) therapy, may decrease the number of laser treatments needed 1. However, the evidence for these combination therapies is not always consistent and can be limited by factors such as small sample sizes and variable follow-up periods 1. In general, multiple sessions of pulsed dye laser treatment are often required for complete resolution of the targeted condition, usually spaced 4-8 weeks apart. Key factors that can influence the response time to pulsed dye laser treatment include:
- Condition severity
- Skin type
- Treatment parameters
- Individual healing capacity It is also important to note that pulsed dye laser treatment can cause temporary side effects, such as redness, swelling, and bruising, which typically resolve within 7-14 days 1. The mechanism of action of pulsed dye laser treatment, which involves targeting hemoglobin in blood vessels and causing controlled damage that the body gradually clears away, also contributes to the delayed results 1.
From the Research
Results After Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment
- The results of pulsed dye laser treatment can be seen as early as a few weeks after treatment, with continued improvement over time 2, 3.
- A study published in 2006 found that six weeks after laser treatment, no significant difference was found in the clinical appearance of surgical scars treated with a single pulsed dye laser treatment versus those not treated with laser 2.
- Another study published in 2010 found that both short-pulse and long-pulse pulsed dye laser treatments demonstrated a statistically significant overall average improvement in the appearance of surgical scars, with results seen after a series of treatments 3.
- The timing of results can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated, with some studies showing improvement after a single treatment and others requiring multiple treatments 4, 5.
- A study published in 2021 found that enhanced pulsed dye laser treatment resulted in significant improvement in facial dyschromia, with a mean clearance of at least 50% in all lesions, and up to three treatments were performed approximately 1 month apart 6.
Factors Affecting Results
- The effectiveness of pulsed dye laser treatment can depend on various factors, including the type and severity of the condition being treated, the individual's skin type, and the treatment parameters used 3, 4.
- The use of different pulse durations, such as short-pulse and long-pulse, can also affect the results of treatment, although one study found no significant difference between the two 3.
- The number of treatments required to achieve desired results can vary, with some studies showing improvement after a single treatment and others requiring multiple treatments 2, 3, 5, 6.