1,550 nm Erbium-Doped and 1,927 nm Thulium Nonablative Fractional Laser System: Best Practices and Treatment Setting Recommendations
NON-ABLATIVE LASER RESEARCH
Paul M. Friedman, MD; Jeffrey S. Dover, MD, FRCPC; Anne Chapas, MD; Zakia Rahman, MD; Edward V. Ross, MD; Suzanne L. Kilmer, MD; Wendy E. Roberts, MD; Pooja Sodha, MD; Julie B. Stimmel, PhD; Mary Beth C. Moncrief, PhD; and Jill S. Waibel, MD
Published in Dermatologic Surgery, Volume 48, Issue 2, pages 195–200 (2022)
RESEARCH OVERVIEW
This publication presents expert recommendations for using the 1,550 nm erbium-doped and 1,927 nm thulium nonablative fractional laser system. Eight board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience using these technologies participated in a clinical survey and expert roundtable. The panel discussed best practices for using each wavelength separately and in combination across different skin types and dermatologic applications.
KEY FINDINGS
Eight board-certified dermatologists with at least 10 years of experience using the laser system contributed to the recommendations.
The 1,550 nm wavelength was discussed primarily for skin resurfacing, collagen remodeling, texture concerns, and selected types of scars.
The 1,927 nm wavelength was discussed for more superficial concerns, including selected pigmentation conditions and actinic keratoses.
The two wavelengths may be used separately or together depending on the condition being treated.
Recommendations were provided for patients across all Fitzpatrick skin types.
Treatment planning should consider skin type, treatment area, pigmentation risk, condition, and individual patient characteristics.
The publication discusses both approved indications and investigational applications.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
These expert recommendations provide clinicians with guidance for individualizing nonablative fractional laser treatments. The two wavelengths target different levels and characteristics of the skin, allowing trained dermatologists to select one wavelength or combine both based on the patient’s condition and treatment goals. This publication represents expert consensus and clinical experience rather than a randomized clinical trial, and treatment outcomes may vary among patients.
PUBLICATION DETAILS
Journal: Dermatologic Surgery
Year: 2022
Volume: 48
Issue: 2
Pages: 195–200
DOI: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003321
Funding and disclosure: The expert roundtable was supported by Solta Medical, Inc. The publication reports advisory and consulting relationships between certain authors and the company.
This research summary is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The publication includes both approved indications and investigational applications. Treatment selection, settings, risks, recovery, and expected outcomes vary by patient and should be determined by a qualified medical professional following an individual evaluation.