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Treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae using the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with topical carbon suspension.

BACKGROUND
Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is a condition caused by ingrown hairs of the face. No treatment to date has shown long-term effectiveness without risk of side effects or ease of treatment.


OBJECTIVE
The goal of this pilot study was to evaluate the use of the topical suspension-assisted Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of PFB.


METHODS
Nine patients were given two treatments 1 month apart and assessed by objective papule/pustule counts at 1 and 2 months after final treatment. Treatment sites were 9 cm2 regions on the mandible and neck, with contralateral controls. Patients also performed subjective evaluations.


RESULTS
Reduction in the quantity of papules and pustules when compared with baseline was statistically significant for treatment of the mandibular region and combined sites at 1- and 2-month evaluations, as well as the neck region at the 2-month evaluation.


CONCLUSION
Use of the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with topical carbon suspension is an effective means of treating PFB, with results persisting at least 2 months after treatment.