The most common use of laser in dermatology is in the treatment of vascular lesions using lasers. It was used primarily for treating port wine stains in children. However, with modifications of the initial parameters which allow longer pulses and wavelengths, it is increasingly being used in the treatment of blood vessel diseases and also for epidermal cooling. Smaller superficial vascular malformations respond better than treatment of deeper, larger blood vessels with an approximate 80% fading after 8 to 10 treatments. Most of lasers in dermatology and skin conditions treated include 473nm lasers,532nm lasers,635nm lasers,650nm lasers,671nm lasers,980nm lasers and 1064nm lasers,etc. These lasers have also been used to remove viral warts, acne and psoriasis. Keloids and hypertrophic scars, which have been traditionally difficult to remove, can be eradicated by vaporising lasers like carbon dioxide and erbium.Unwanted hair can be effectively removed or reduced using lasers such as 635nm lasers or 1064nm lasers. These lasers target the melanin within the hair shaft and bulb causing the destruction of cells. This results in the slowing down the ability of hair growth.
Laser resurfacing allows the collagen in the skin to be rebuilt, making a patient look younger by reducing the wrinkles in the skin. The most commonly used noninvasive device, green lasers or red lasers emitting diodes have been used to stimulate the fibroblasts in the skin to produce collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans to rejuvenate the skin.
It is important that the anybody using laser devices should be thoroughly trained and the patients and the clinic staff be given eye protection. You must be wearing laser safety goggles or protective goggles. Patients should keep in mind that laser treatments are basically burns, which can cause temporary pain, infection and redness. Understanding the inherent risks and complications is crucial. So, before going for a laser treatment, please consult a qualified laser surgeon.
