A larger spot size does enhance penetration and efficacy in the treatment of port-wine stains

Two case studies of a laser-resistant port-wine stain (PWS) previously treated with pulsed dye laser and maximum spot size of 10 mm. Marked lightening of the PWS with no epidermal injury was observed in a skin type III male and laser-resistant PWS improvement in a skin type IV male, following 2 monthly Vbeam Prima treatments with the large 15 mm spot size.

Reference: Al-Niaimi F. J Cosmet Dermatol 2020 Jun;19(6):1359-1360.

Study Details:

  • A 36-year-old man (Skin Type III) with a laser-resistant port-wine stain (PWS) previously had ~6 PDL sessions (maximum spot size of 10 mm).
  • 2 treatments with the Vbeam Prima system, using 15 mm spot size, fluence of 6.5 J/cm2, pulse duration of 0.45 ms and cryogen cooling (DCD™ 30:20 ms).
  • Marked lightening of the PWS with no epidermal injury.

Study Results:

  • A 28-year-old man (Skin Type IV) with a laser-resistant PWS previously had 5 PDL sessions with 10 mm spot, 0.45 ms, and fluences up to 9.5 J/cm2.
  • 2 monthly treatments with the Vbeam Prima system: Treatment 1: 15 mm spot size, fluence of 6.5 J/cm2, pulse duration of 0.45 ms and contact cooling handpiece on the colder mode; Treatment 2: 12 mm spot size, fluence of 7.5 J/cm2, pulse duration of 0.45 ms and contact cooling handpiece on the colder mode.
  • Laser-resistant PWS improvement following the 2 sessions.