Combined fractional Erbium:Glass and Thulium lasers versus microneedling for atrophic facial acne scars.
Official title: Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Fractional Erbium:Glass (1540-1550 nm) and Thulium (1927 nm) Lasers Versus Microneedling for the Treatment of Atrophic Acne Scars
Run by University of Nove de Julho · NCT07151599 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether combining two fractional lasers (Erbium:Glass and Thulium) works better than microneedling to improve atrophic facial acne scars in adults aged 18–30.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 84 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Nove de Julho Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (São Paulo) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 16, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 2026 |
| Study ends | July 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 26, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07151599 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 18–30 with atrophic acne scars on the face, any Fitzpatrick skin type I–VI, and no active infections or contraindicating medical conditions.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with hypertrophic or keloid scars, active infections, recent retinoid use, coagulation disorders, pregnancy or breastfeeding, current anticoagulant use, or recent facial aesthetic treatments are unlikely to be eligible or to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized study will enroll 84 adults aged 18–30 with atrophic facial acne scars and assign them to receive either three sessions of microneedling or three sessions of combined fractional Erbium:Glass and Thulium lasers, spaced four weeks apart. Independent evaluators will compare standardized before-and-after photographs using a grading scale, and participants will report satisfaction and tolerability. Follow-up visits occur up to 90 days after the last treatment to capture short-term outcomes. The trial includes Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI and excludes people with active infections, hypertrophic/keloid scarring, recent retinoid use, bleeding disorders, pregnancy, or recent facial procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the combined laser approach could produce greater scar remodeling and improved cosmetic results than microneedling, potentially boosting patient satisfaction and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Both microneedling and fractional lasers have demonstrated benefit for atrophic acne scars in prior studies, but the specific combination of Erbium:Glass and Thulium lasers is less well studied.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I to VI * Presence of atrophic acne scars on the face Exclusion Criteria: * Decompensated systemic diseases * Any active infection (e.g., viral such as herpes, bacterial, or fungal) * Pregnant or breastfeeding women * Presence of hypertrophic or keloid scars * Current use of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications * History of hemophilia or coagulation disorders * Current use of anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids * Use of retinoids, including isotretinoin, within the past 6 months * Exposure to sunlight within the past 15 days * Undergoing any aesthetic facial treatment or having undergone scar treatments in the facial region within 180 days prior to study initiation * Presence of active acne (occasional isolated lesions will not be considered exclusion criteria)
Where it's running
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Espaço Conceito Medical San
São Paulo, Brazil Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Luciana Khachikian, Master Student — University of Nove de Julho
- Study coordinator: Luciana Khachikian, Master student
- Email: lucianacamargo@uni9.edu.br
- Phone: +5511989969924
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.