Ablative skin resurfacing

Jennifer Chwalek, David J. Goldberg

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Ablative skin resurfacing has remained the gold standard for treating photodamage and acne scars since the development of the first CO2 lasers. CO2 and Er:YAG lasers emit infrared light, which targets water resulting in tissue contraction and collagen formation. The first ablative laser systems created significant thermal damage resulting in unacceptably high rates of scarring and prolonged healing. Newer devices, such as high-energy pulsed lasers and fractional ablative lasers, are capable of achieving significant improvements with fewer side effects and shorter recovery times. While ablative resurfacing has become safer, careful patient selection is still important to avoid post-treatment scarring, dyspigmentation, and infections. Clinicians utilizing ablative devices need to be aware of possible side effects in order to maximize results and patient satisfaction. This chapter reviews the background of ablative lasers including the types of ablative lasers, mechanism of action, indications for ablative resurfacing, and possible side effects.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationBasics in Dermatological Laser Applications
Pages40-47
Number of pages8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2011
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameCurrent Problems in Dermatology
Volume42
ISSN (Print)1421-5721
ISSN (Electronic)1662-2944

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