Long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd-YAG Laser Versus TCA 20% in Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a genetic disorder of keratinization of hair follicles of skin. It's a very common benign condition that manifests as small, rough folliculocentric keratotic papules, often described as chicken bumps, chicken skin or goose-bumps, in characteristic areas of body, particularly the outer upper arms and thighs.

Trichloreacetic acid (TCA) is a type of chemical peels that is derived from acetic acid by the chlorination of 3 hydrogen ions. It can induce coagulative necrosis of proteins and cells. The depth of action depends on various factors e.g the number of layers applied and its combination with substances that potentiate its action.

Nd: YAG laser is a type of hair removing devices that operates at wave length of 1064nm. This wave length allows for less absorption at the epidermis. It is less absorbed by melanin, which leads to lower side effect and better tolerance but less efficacy in dark skinned patients.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients above 18 years with KP.
• Patients with KP affecting back of the trunk, arms, thighs, forearms, legs and buttocks.

Exclusion criteria

• Pregnant or lactating females.
• Patients who had performed any laser treatment for KP within 6 months prior to the study.
• Patients with history of oral retinoids within 3 months prior to the study.
• Patients with history of hypertrophic scars or keloids.
• Patients who used any topical treatment one month prior to the session.
• Patients with acne affecting the same sites of keratosis pilaris.
• Patients with active skin diseases affecting the area involved with KP e.g. folliculitis and eczema.