Laser therapy options
Laser therapy offers targeted control for molluscum contagiosum lesions, allowing precise ablation of affected tissue with controlled depth. Different lasers are selected based on lesion size, depth, and patient age, balancing efficacy with the risk of scarring. Among common choices are CO2 fractional lasers, Er:YAG lasers, and Nd:YAG lasers, each with distinct tissue interactions.
CO2 fractional lasers create microthermal zones that promote resurfacing and local immune activation, helping clear repeated lesions. Er:YAG lasers offer gentler ablation with faster healing in sensitive areas such as the face and neck. Nd:YAG lasers provide deeper penetration for stubborn nodules while reducing surface disruption, though caution is needed to prevent scarring.
Ongoing Korean clinical experience shows that selecting a suitable platform and adjusting energy per lesion improves outcomes in both adults and children. Careful treatment planning includes lesion mapping, test spots, and staggered sessions to minimize downtime and infection risk. Laser therapy is often combined with conventional methods like topical therapies or cryotherapy when appropriate, to enhance clearance rates.
Korean clinical cases
In a 28 year old patient with several molluscum contagiosum papules on the trunk, a single session using a CO2 fractional laser achieved marked reduction. Over 8 weeks, additional sessions were performed with cautious energy calibration, resulting in near-complete lesion resolution and minimal scarring. Such cases illustrate how Korean dermatology centers leverage advanced lasers to tailor treatment to patient skin type and lesion distribution.
A pediatric case involved facial molluscum contagiosum treated with a low-energy Nd:YAG laser due to sensitive skin, with careful cooling and anesthesia. Multiple follow-ups over three months showed stable clearance without pigmentary changes, underscoring the importance of technique selection. These examples reflect the growing adoption of laser therapies in Korea, where clinics emphasize precision and safety.
Compared with cryotherapy or curettage, laser approaches often yield faster recovery and less social downtime for young patients. Practitioners highlight the need for post-treatment care and sun protection to prevent temporary post-inflammatory changes. Overall, molluscum contagiosum laser therapy in Korea demonstrates consistent clearance when performed by experienced teams.
Procedure and aftercare
Before treatment, clinicians evaluate lesion count, skin type, and possible immunosuppression to guide laser settings and anesthesia needs. Topical anesthetic creams or cooling sprays are commonly used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Post-procedure notes emphasize cleanliness, crust management, and warning signs requiring medical attention.
Immediately after treatment, patients may experience mild redness, swelling, and crusting that typically subsides within a week or two. Proper wound care includes avoiding picking, using prescribed ointments, and applying sunblock to prevent pigmentation changes. Return visits are scheduled to monitor healing and determine whether additional sessions are necessary for complete clearance.
Recovery expectations vary by lesion depth and laser type, but most patients resume normal activities within a few days. Clinicians stress that laser therapy is not a one-time fix; a tailored plan with staged sessions offers the best chance of full resolution. Long-term outcomes depend on prompt management of secondary infections and maintaining overall skin health through consistent care.