Review of cutaneous lasers and their applications.

BACKGROUND The use of lasers has assumed an increasingly important role in the treatment of a variety of cutaneous lesions over the past few decades. Because of their effectiveness, physicians from a variety of specialties have incorporated lasers into their practices. Unfortunately, widespread availability of lasers and the public's fascination with their potential uses have created extraordinary, often unrealistic, expectations. METHODS We review the laser systems most frequently used to treat skin conditions. RESULTS We discuss lasers with specificity for vascular malformations and pigmentary disorders as well as for tattoos and scars. Also, we review the latest techniques for cutaneous laser resurfacing with carbon dioxide and erbium:YAG lasers. Last, we briefly outline future uses of lasers and ongoing investigations, including laser treatment of leg veins and laser-assisted hair removal. CONCLUSIONS Lasers, when properly used, offer clear advantages when compared with older, traditional approaches. Laser technology is clearly at its best when the characteristics of selectivity and specificity apply. Significant improvement and even elimination of many cutaneous lesions can now be accomplished with reduced risks to the patient when proper patient selection and laser treatment parameters are chosen.