Post-Acne Atrophic ScarsPRPLTNCT07352215
PRP Plus Fractional CO₂ Laser for Acne Scars
A study testing Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Fractional CO₂ Laser Only in people with Post-Acne Atrophic Scars and Carbon Dioxide Lasers, run by Gujranwala medical college District Headquarters Hospital, Gujranwala at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing improves the treatment of moderate-to-severe acne scars compared with laser alone. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Post-Acne Atrophic Scars, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Platelet-Rich Plasma
- What is being tested?
- Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Fractional CO₂ Laser Only
- Type of treatment
- Injection or infusion, Surgery or procedure
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 70 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 31 Oct 2025to 30 Apr 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Male and female participants
- Fitzpatrick skin types I to V
- Presence of moderate-to-severe acne scars
- Willing to undergo 3 treatment sessions and follow-up visits
- Able to provide informed consent -
- Exclusion Criteria:Use of topical anti-acne medications in the past 1 month
Show all 19Show fewer
- History of keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring
- Active acne or active skin inflammation at treatment area
- Diabetes mellitus
- Photosensitive disorders (e.g., lupus, dermatomyositis)
- Melasma
- Active infections (e.g., Herpes simplex)
- Recent laser resurfacing or similar procedures
- Outdoor workers with high sun exposure
- Vitiligo
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy
- Unrealistic expectations or inability to comply with follow-up
- -
Who cannot join
None listed.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Destrict Head Quarter Hospital, Gujranwala
Gujranwala, Punjab Province, 52250
Syed Asif Ali, MS Artho, 055-6705800-4 ext. 119, principal@gmcg.edu.pk
Nabeela Shahzadi, FCPS Derma, +92 331 4218784, nabeela.pk82@gmail.com
About this study
Official title: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma as an Adjunct to Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Therapy in Improving Facial Acne Scar Appearance: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing improves the treatment of moderate-to-severe acne scars compared with laser alone. Seventy adults aged 18-40 years will be recruited from the Dermatology Department of Gujranwala Medical College Teaching Hospital. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either fractional CO₂ laser combined with topical PRP or fractional CO₂ laser alone, with three treatment sessions delivered four weeks apart.
The primary outcome is the change in acne scar severity measured using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale. Secondary outcomes include redness, edema, pain scores, and patient satisfaction assessed using Likert and numeric rating scales. The study is single-blinded, with patients unaware of treatment allocation. PRP will be prepared using a standardized double-spin centrifugation process. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests with a significance level of p < 0.05. The study aims to determine whether PRP enhances laser efficacy, reduces side effects, and improves patient-reported outcomes.
Read the detailed description
Acne scarring is a frequent and distressing outcome of acne vulgaris. Fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser therapy is widely used for acne scar management because it creates controlled microthermal zones that stimulate collagen remodeling and improve skin texture. However, laser treatment alone may lead to side effects such as erythema, edema, discomfort, and variable degrees of clinical improvement.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous biological product containing high concentrations of platelets, growth factors, and cytokines known to promote wound healing, enhance collagen production, and modulate inflammation. The combination of PRP with fractional CO₂ laser treatment is believed to enhance clinical results, improve healing time, and reduce post-procedural complications. This study is designed to evaluate whether adding PRP to fractional CO₂ laser improves outcomes for patients with moderate-to-severe acne scars.
This randomized controlled trial will recruit 70 patients aged 18-40 years with moderate-to-severe facial acne scars. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive fractional CO₂ laser therapy combined with PRP, and Group B will receive fractional CO₂ laser therapy alone. Both groups will undergo three treatment sessions spaced four weeks apart. The study uses single blinding, where patients are unaware of their treatment assignment. To maintain blinding, a placebo-filled syringe will be used in the control group and gently applied without injecting any substance.
PRP will be prepared using a standardized double-spin method. Ten milliliters of venous blood will be collected in anticoagulant tubes, centrifuged at low speed to separate plasma and buffy coat, followed by a second high-speed centrifugation to isolate platelet-rich plasma. Topical anesthesia with lignocaine-prilocaine cream will be applied before each laser session. Treatment areas will be prepared using antiseptic measures, and eye protection will be provided.
Outcome assessment will be performed at baseline and at each visit. The primary outcome is the change in acne scar severity measured using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale. Secondary outcomes include assessments of erythema and edema by the evaluator, as well as patient-reported pain scores and satisfaction ratings. Standardized clinical photographs will support patient self-assessment under consistent lighting and camera settings.
Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Continuous variables will be assessed for normality and compared using t-tests or nonparametric equivalents. Categorical and ordinal data will be analyzed using Chi-square or related tests. A significance level of p < 0.05 will be applied. Data will be coded, and the statistician will remain blinded to group allocation.
The purpose of this trial is to determine whether PRP enhances the efficacy, safety profile, and patient satisfaction of fractional CO₂ laser treatments. If successful, this combination approach may offer a more effective therapeutic option for managing moderate-to-severe acne scarring.
- Being tested
- Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Fractional CO₂ Laser Only
- Keywords
- Post-acne Scarring, Fractional CO₂ Laser, PRP Therapy, Skin Resurfacing
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)Procedure or surgery
Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment followed by topical application of autologous platelet-rich plasma. Three treatment sessions are performed at four-week intervals. PRP is prepared using a standardized double-spin centrifugation method from 10 mL of the participant's blood. After laser resurfacing, the PRP is applied immediately to the treated area to enhance healing and collagen remodeling.
Fractional CO₂ Laser OnlyProcedure or surgery
Fractional CO₂ Laser Only
Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment alone, with the same laser settings and treatment schedule as the intervention group. Three sessions are performed at four-week intervals. To maintain participant blinding, a placebo-filled syringe covered with opaque tape is applied to the skin without delivering PRP.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Laser + PRP arm | Experimental | Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment followed by the application of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Three sessions are administered at four-week intervals. PRP is prepared using a double-spin centrifugation method and applied topically immediately after laser treatment. Receives: Procedure: Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) |
| Laser only arm | Experimental | Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment alone, without PRP. Three sessions are administered at four-week intervals using the same laser parameters as the intervention group. To maintain masking, a placebo-filled syringe covered with opaque tape is touched to the skin without delivering PRP. Receives: Procedure: Fractional CO₂ Laser Only |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in Acne Scar Severity (Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale)
Acne scar severity will be assessed using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale, which grades scars based on type, number of lesions, and affected surface area. Scores will be recorded at baseline and at each follow-up visit to measure improvement over the course of treatment.
Measured: 12weeks
Secondary outcomes (4)
Redness (Erythema) Score
Redness will be evaluated by the assessor using a 4-point Likert scale (0 = none, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, 3 = severe) at each visit to assess post-laser inflammatory response.
Measured: 12weeks
Edema (Swelling) Score
Edema will be assessed by the evaluator using a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 0 (none) to 3 (severe) to evaluate treatment-related swelling.
Measured: 12 weeks
Pain Score (11-Point Numeric Rating Scale)
Participants will report pain intensity using an 11-point numeric scale (0 = no pain; 10 = worst possible pain) during and after each treatment session.
Measured: 12 weeks
Patient Satisfaction Rating
Patient satisfaction with treatment outcome will be measured using a 4-point Likert scale (0 = not satisfied; 1 = neutral; 2 = satisfied; 3 = very satisfied). Standardized digital photographs will be used to assist patient self-evaluation.
Measured: 12 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted20 Jan 2026
- Study start31 Oct 2025
- Primary completion12 Jan 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Apr 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (2)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Post-Acne Atrophic ScarsStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. One group will receive fractional CO₂ laser combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), while the second group will receive fractional CO₂ laser alone. Each participant remains in the same assigned group for the entire study duration, and the interventions are delivered independently and simultaneously across both groups without crossover.
- Masking
- Triple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Care provider, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 70 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Gujranwala medical college District Headquarters Hospital, Gujranwala
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Saglik Bilimleri Universitesi
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Yasaan Saaqib, Gujranwala medical college District Headquarters Hospital, Gujranwala
- Investigators
- YASAAN SAAQIB, Principal investigator, Gujranwala Medial College Gujranwala
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07352215
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- No. IRB.22/ GMC
- Other IDs
- CPSP/REU/DER-2023-093-19340
- Acronym
- PRPLT
- Status last verified
- Jan 2026
- First submitted
- 11 Jan 2026
- Last updated
- 20 Jan 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided: I sill do it after publication of my study
Publications
Rullan PP, Olson R, Lee KC. A Combination Approach to Treating Acne Scars in All Skin Types: Carbolic Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, Blunt Bi-level Cannula Subcision, and Microneedling-A Case Series. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 May;13(5):19-23. Epub 2020 May 1.
PubMed 32802250Connolly D, Vu HL, Mariwalla K, Saedi N. Acne Scarring-Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Treatment Options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017 Sep;10(9):12-23. Epub 2017 Sep 1.
PubMed 29344322
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Jan 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Evaluating the Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma as an Adjunct to Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Therapy in Improving Facial Acne Scar Appearance: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07352215
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- PRPLT / No. IRB.22/ GMC
- Keywords
- Post-acne Scarring, Fractional CO₂ Laser, PRP Therapy, Skin Resurfacing
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 70 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Gujranwala medical college District Headquarters Hospital, GujranwalaUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Saglik Bilimleri Universitesi
- Study start
- 31 Oct 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 12 Jan 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 20 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing improves the treatment of moderate-to-severe acne scars compared with laser alone. Seventy adults aged 18-40 years will be recruited from the Dermatology Department of Gujranwala Medical College Teaching Hospital. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either fractional CO₂ laser combined with topical PRP or fractional CO₂ laser alone, with three treatment sessions delivered four weeks apart.
The primary outcome is the change in acne scar severity measured using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale. Secondary outcomes include redness, edema, pain scores, and patient satisfaction assessed using Likert and numeric rating scales. The study is single-blinded, with patients unaware of treatment allocation. PRP will be prepared using a standardized double-spin centrifugation process. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests with a significance level of p < 0.05. The study aims to determine whether PRP enhances laser efficacy, reduces side effects, and improves patient-reported outcomes.
Detailed description
Acne scarring is a frequent and distressing outcome of acne vulgaris. Fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser therapy is widely used for acne scar management because it creates controlled microthermal zones that stimulate collagen remodeling and improve skin texture. However, laser treatment alone may lead to side effects such as erythema, edema, discomfort, and variable degrees of clinical improvement.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous biological product containing high concentrations of platelets, growth factors, and cytokines known to promote wound healing, enhance collagen production, and modulate inflammation. The combination of PRP with fractional CO₂ laser treatment is believed to enhance clinical results, improve healing time, and reduce post-procedural complications. This study is designed to evaluate whether adding PRP to fractional CO₂ laser improves outcomes for patients with moderate-to-severe acne scars.
This randomized controlled trial will recruit 70 patients aged 18-40 years with moderate-to-severe facial acne scars. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive fractional CO₂ laser therapy combined with PRP, and Group B will receive fractional CO₂ laser therapy alone. Both groups will undergo three treatment sessions spaced four weeks apart. The study uses single blinding, where patients are unaware of their treatment assignment. To maintain blinding, a placebo-filled syringe will be used in the control group and gently applied without injecting any substance.
PRP will be prepared using a standardized double-spin method. Ten milliliters of venous blood will be collected in anticoagulant tubes, centrifuged at low speed to separate plasma and buffy coat, followed by a second high-speed centrifugation to isolate platelet-rich plasma. Topical anesthesia with lignocaine-prilocaine cream will be applied before each laser session. Treatment areas will be prepared using antiseptic measures, and eye protection will be provided.
Outcome assessment will be performed at baseline and at each visit. The primary outcome is the change in acne scar severity measured using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale. Secondary outcomes include assessments of erythema and edema by the evaluator, as well as patient-reported pain scores and satisfaction ratings. Standardized clinical photographs will support patient self-assessment under consistent lighting and camera settings.
Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Continuous variables will be assessed for normality and compared using t-tests or nonparametric equivalents. Categorical and ordinal data will be analyzed using Chi-square or related tests. A significance level of p < 0.05 will be applied. Data will be coded, and the statistician will remain blinded to group allocation.
The purpose of this trial is to determine whether PRP enhances the efficacy, safety profile, and patient satisfaction of fractional CO₂ laser treatments. If successful, this combination approach may offer a more effective therapeutic option for managing moderate-to-severe acne scarring.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Triple blind (participant, care provider, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. One group will receive fractional CO₂ laser combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), while the second group will receive fractional CO₂ laser alone. Each participant remains in the same assigned group for the entire study duration, and the interventions are delivered independently and simultaneously across both groups without crossover.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Laser + PRP arm | Experimental | Procedure: Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment followed by the application of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Three sessions are administered at four-week intervals. PRP is prepared using a double-spin centrifugation method and applied topically immediately after laser treatment. |
| Laser only arm | Experimental | Procedure: Fractional CO₂ Laser OnlyParticipants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment alone, without PRP. Three sessions are administered at four-week intervals using the same laser parameters as the intervention group. To maintain masking, a placebo-filled syringe covered with opaque tape is touched to the skin without delivering PRP. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (19 listed)
- Male and female participants
- Fitzpatrick skin types I to V
- Presence of moderate-to-severe acne scars
- Willing to undergo 3 treatment sessions and follow-up visits
- Able to provide informed consent -
Key exclusion criteria (0 listed)
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment followed by topical application of autologous platelet-rich plasma. Three treatment sessions are performed at four-week intervals. PRP is prepared using a standardized double-spin centrifugation method from 10 mL of the participant's blood. After laser resurfacing, the PRP is applied immediately to the treated area to enhance healing and collagen remodeling. | Procedure or surgery | Laser + PRP arm |
| Fractional CO₂ Laser OnlyFractional CO₂ Laser Only Participants receive fractional CO₂ laser treatment alone, with the same laser settings and treatment schedule as the intervention group. Three sessions are performed at four-week intervals. To maintain participant blinding, a placebo-filled syringe covered with opaque tape is applied to the skin without delivering PRP. | Procedure or surgery | Laser only arm |
Primary outcome
Change in Acne Scar Severity (Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale)
Time frame: 12weeks
Acne scar severity will be assessed using the Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale, which grades scars based on type, number of lesions, and affected surface area. Scores will be recorded at baseline and at each follow-up visit to measure improvement over the course of treatment.
4 secondary outcomes
Redness (Erythema) Score
Time frame: 12weeks
Edema (Swelling) Score
Time frame: 12 weeks
Pain Score (11-Point Numeric Rating Scale)
Time frame: 12 weeks
Patient Satisfaction Rating
Time frame: 12 weeks
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Jan 2026.
- Background: PubMed 32802250Rullan PP, Olson R, Lee KC. A Combination Approach to Treating Acne Scars in All Skin Types: Carbolic Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, Blunt Bi-level Cannula Subcision, and Microneedling-A Case Series. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 May;13(5):19-23. Epub 2020 May 1.
- Results publication: PubMed 29344322Connolly D, Vu HL, Mariwalla K, Saedi N. Acne Scarring-Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Treatment Options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017 Sep;10(9):12-23. Epub 2017 Sep 1.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided. I sill do it after publication of my study
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
YASAAN SAAQIB principal investigator
Gujranwala Medial College Gujranwala
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Fractional CO₂ Laser + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Fractional CO₂ Laser Only in people with Post-Acne Atrophic Scars and Carbon Dioxide Lasers, run by Gujranwala medical college District Headquarters Hospital, Gujranwala at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 19 inclusion and 0 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Jan 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact YASAAN SAAQIB, MBBS (0923234525277, saani1992222@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in Acne Scar Severity (Goodman and Baron Quantitative Acne Scar Scale) (time frame: 12weeks). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07352215, which also lists 2 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 Jan 2026.