J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025 Aug;24(8):e70365. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70365.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Ultrapulse CO2 fractional lasers are increasingly used for scar treatment. However, the optimal timing for the treatment of traumatic facial scars in children is unclear.
AIM: This retrospective study evaluated the clinical efficacy of ultrapulse CO2 fractional laser treatment for immature facial scars in pediatric patients, with a focus on identifying the optimal timing to achieve the best possible outcomes.
PATIENTS/METHODS: A total of 106 children with traumatic facial scars were divided into three groups according to when laser treatment was started post-procedure: 1 month (Group A), 3 months (Group B), and 6 months (Group C). Three months after two treatments, the therapeutic effects, adverse reactions, and satisfaction of the patients’ families were compared between the three groups.
RESULTS: After two treatments, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores were significantly lower than before treatment in all groups (p < 0.001). Pairwise comparisons demonstrated statistically significant differences between Groups A and B, and between Groups A and C (p < 0.001). Adverse reactions were not significantly different among the three groups (p > 0.05). At the follow-up after two treatments, significantly more patients were very satisfied in Group A than in Groups B and C (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Early intervention with an ultrapulse CO2 fractional laser can effectively treat traumatic facial scars in children. The clinical effect and patient satisfaction were better with treatment initiated 1 month post procedure than with treatment 3-6 months post procedure. It has few adverse reactions and high safety and is worthy of clinical promotion and application.
PMID:40729539 | DOI:10.1111/jocd.70365
