TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Lasers and Light Devices A1 - Akintilo, Lisa A1 - Rieder, Evan A. A2 - Baumann, Leslie S. A2 - Rieder, Evan A. A2 - Sun, Mary D. Y1 - 2022 N1 - T2 - Baumann’s Cosmetic Dermatology, 3e AB - SUMMARY POINTSWhat’s Important?Lasers and light therapy are expanding areas of dermatology with increasing applications for conditions of skin, hair, and mucosa. The principle of selective photothermolysis has completely transformed methods of laser and light delivery to the skin, with increased focus on targeting specific chromophores (e.g., hemoglobin, melanin, water) to achieve a desired clinical result.What’s New?Novel picosecond technology has transformed the utility and scope of laser therapy with increased safety for patients of many skin types. Picosecond lasers are particularly effective for tattoo removal and photorejuvenation.What’s Coming?Skin tightening devices, particularly radiofrequency and ultrasound, are rapidly expanding on the horizon of medical devices with enhanced clinical effects and improved patient safety profiles.Don’t ForgetLasers and light therapy are effective methods of treating various dermatological conditions.Picosecond technology is relatively new and has been shown to be an excellent method of laser delivery with increased safety.Laser and light therapy can be used in patients of all skin types; however, patients with skin of color warrant increased caution to avoid adverse events such as post-inflammatory pigment alteration.Patient Education PointsPatients should be educated on pre- and post-laser and light therapy instructions to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks of these procedures.Clinical PearlsWith appropriate knowledge of their functions and safety profile, laser and light therapy can be a highly effective tool for dermatologists to utilize in treating a wide variety of patients. SN - PB - McGraw Hill LLC CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/03/28 UR - dermatology.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1190669501 ER -