Epidermal growth factor (EGF) boosts collagen production and sustains wound healing. However, there need to be more studies on fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser combined with EGF for treating acne scar.

The present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of fractional CO₂ laser combined with topical EGF vs. fractional CO₂ laser monotherapy for treating acne scars.

The study enrolled 23 patients with atrophic acne scars and subjected them to 3 monthly sessions of randomized split-face application of fractional CO₂ laser along with topical EGF or placebo twice a day for 7 days after each laser session. It evaluated scar improvement at 1 month and 3 months post-treatment, along with wound healing response and adverse events.

The study observed:

• Trial completion by 21 patients.
• Significant superiority of EGF at 3 months post-treatment compared to placebo, using dermatologist grading and skin analysis system.
• Similar wound healing responses between the groups.
• Compared to the placebo, a significant decrease in the melanin index on the EGF side at 3 months post-treatment.
• No allergic reaction to the topical EGF.

This study shows that treatment with topical EGF after ablative fractional CO₂ laser improves the clinical appearance of atrophic acne scars, and it also decreases skin pigmentation after laser treatment. Using topical EGF with post-laser ablation is safe.

Source: Ratanapokasatit Y, Sirithanabadeekul P. The efficacy and safety of epidermal growth factor combined with fractional carbon dioxide laser for acne scar treatment: a split-face trial. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022;15(7):44-8.