Rosacea treatment with 532 nm KTP versus 595 nm pulsed dye laser—A prospective, controlled study.

Background: Pulsed‐dye lasers (PDL) are one of the standard therapies for rosacea, but alternatives are needed. Aims: To compare the efficacy and safety of the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot 532 nm KTP laser to the 595 nm PDL in treating rosacea. Materials and Methods: A prospective, controlled, evaluator‐blinded study. Patients were treated with either a KTP or PDL with 1–3 sessions at intervals of 6–8 weeks. A follow‐up visit was scheduled on Week 6 post‐treatment. Clinical outcome was assessed by computer‐assisted analysis and by patients and two blinded dermatologists. Pain intensity during treatment and adverse events were documented. Results: Forty‐five patients (mean age 51 years) were allocated in a 2:1 ratio to either the KTP or PDL. Erythema in both treatment arms decreased significantly (p < 0.01). Clinical evaluation revealed high improvement. Mean pain intensity was significantly lower with the KTP (2.5/10) than with the PDL (4.1/10). Both lasers showed a good safety profile. Relevant purpura was only seen in the PDL group. Conclusions: Both the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot KTP and the PDL demonstrated comparable efficacy in treatment of rosacea. Regarding safety, the KTP exhibited fewer post‐treatment reactions. The KTP might serve as a potential alternative to PDL in the treatment of rosacea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]