INTRODUCTION
Dyspigmentation and photodamage are common concerns in patients who seek aesthetic dermatologic consultation. Intrinsic aging and cumulative sun exposure, along with other extrinsic factors such as pollution and smoking, lead to decreased collagen synthesis, increased matrix metalloproteases (MMP), and increased melanin production.1 There are several techniques for diminishing the signs of photodamage ranging from topical anti-aging cosmeceuticals to laser and energy based- therapies.
Given its safety, efficacy, and limited downtime, fractionated non-ablative resurfacing has become a mainstay treatment for photoaging. The 1927 nm thulium fiber laser (TFL) is a fractionated non-ablative laser that induces superficial epidermal resurfacing to a maximum depth of 300 μm.2 TFL has a relatively high absorption coefficient for water leading to its ability to target epidermal process such as dyschromia and signs of photodamage. Furthermore, the TFL produces columns of thermal necrosis in the superficial skin layers. This leads to collagen stimulation in the dermis and clearance of epidermal pigment.3
Topical retinoids such as tretinoin have been used for over two decades for photoaging to promote epidermal hyperplasia, MMP inhibition, collagen synthesis, and dispersion of melanin granules.4 A novel 0.05% tretinoin lotion was recently introduced for the treatment of moderate to severe acne.5 This novel 0.05% tretinoin lotion was formulated using polymeric emulsion technology, with the specific aim of providing more efficient delivery of retinoid into the dermal layers with less skin irritation and higher tolerability profile.6
Given its safety, efficacy, and limited downtime, fractionated non-ablative resurfacing has become a mainstay treatment for photoaging. The 1927 nm thulium fiber laser (TFL) is a fractionated non-ablative laser that induces superficial epidermal resurfacing to a maximum depth of 300 μm.2 TFL has a relatively high absorption coefficient for water leading to its ability to target epidermal process such as dyschromia and signs of photodamage. Furthermore, the TFL produces columns of thermal necrosis in the superficial skin layers. This leads to collagen stimulation in the dermis and clearance of epidermal pigment.3
Topical retinoids such as tretinoin have been used for over two decades for photoaging to promote epidermal hyperplasia, MMP inhibition, collagen synthesis, and dispersion of melanin granules.4 A novel 0.05% tretinoin lotion was recently introduced for the treatment of moderate to severe acne.5 This novel 0.05% tretinoin lotion was formulated using polymeric emulsion technology, with the specific aim of providing more efficient delivery of retinoid into the dermal layers with less skin irritation and higher tolerability profile.6
