Principles of Cutaneous Laser Therapy

Abstract

The use of laser technology in medicine was pioneered in the 20th century. Since the first application in the treatment of pigmented lesions in 1960, lasers have evolved to become a mainstay of treatment in medicine and surgery alike. Lasers are routinely used to treat a wide variety of skin disorders. Given the vast array of laser devices currently available, the laser dermatologist must understand the capabilities and limitations of each device and the applications, including target structure and the appropriate parameters for the desired target, and the possible complications.