Lasers in dermatology. An overview of types and indications.

Advances in laser technology have been so marked over the past two decades that successful eradication of many cutaneous pathologies and congenital defects, including vascular and pigmented lesions, tattoos, scars, and unwanted hair, can now be fully realized. Because of the relative ease with which many of these lesions can be removed, coupled with a low incidence of adverse postoperative sequelae, demand for laser surgery has increased substantially. In this review, the currently available laser systems with cutaneous application are outlined, with special reference to recent advancements and modifications in laser technology that have greatly expanded the laser surgeon's armamentarium and improved upon overall treatment efficacy.