Comparative Effects Of Trichloroacetic Chemical Peel And Fractional Laser

More than aesthetics, the search for orofacial harmonization treatments has increased when the negative emotional impact of some facial conditions such as melasma and acne scars is recognized. This randomized clinical trial will evaluate the effects of chemical peel with 35% TCA (trichloroacetic acid)associated with croton oil. And to compare the results with its isolated formulation containing only 35% TCA and with two types of fractional laser (2940nm Er-YAG and 1640nm Nd-YAG) in orofacial harmonization procedures. This study will be based on a sample of 100-120 participants at least 18 years of age, male or female, with complaints of melasma (n=36 to 40), acne scars (n=36 to 40) or facial wrinkles (n=36 to 40). The experimental times will be day -15 (pre-treatment), day 0 (1st treatment session), day 30 (2nd treatment session), day 60 (3rd treatment session), day 70 (immediate post-treatment) and day 120 (mediate post-treatment). The primary outcomes will be the difference (pre- versus post-peeling) in the scores of Melasma (mMASI), acne scars (SCAR-S) or facial wrinkles (Glogau index), in the respective groups according to the main complaints. As secondary outcomes, the global satisfaction scale of the professional (PGA) and the patient (PtGA) will be measured; the impact of the treatment on the quality of life of the participants (SKINDEX-16) and the sensory experience in relation to pain (EVA 1 to 10). All participants, under local anesthesia (button anesthesia), will be randomized into one of three treatment groups: 35% TCA associated with croton oil (test), 35% TCA alone, Er-Yag or Nd-YAG laser (comparators). Intra- and inter-group differences will be considered statistically significant when p < 0.05. The aim of this study is to identify the most appropriate treatment strategy for frequent complaints in clinical practice, and among them, the one that promotes the best experience, with the shortest recovery time and is cost-effective.

Inclusion criteria

• Men or women
• aged 18 or over
• acne scars, melasma or clear signs of photoaging and evident wrinkles
• participants with acne scars or melasma will be included if they have never undergone treatment or if previous treatment has been ineffective.

Exclusion criteria

• phototype VI
• autoimmune and dermatological diseases
• known allergies to the components of the formulations
• patients who prefer other treatment options
• history of keloids
• pregnant women
• breastfeeding women
• women of childbearing age who do not adopt a valid method of contraception