Lasers used in dermatology.

This review introduces the various lasers available for the treatment of dermatological conditions. The applications of various lasers used in dermatology, including the carbon dioxide, argon, Q-switch Nd:YAG, ruby, dye and metal vapour lasers are discussed. We present our experience with the use of the carbon dioxide laser, flashlamp pulse-dye laser and Q-switch Nd:YAG laser in the National Skin Centre, Singapore. Our experience indicated that the lasers if used selectively are useful tools in the management of numerous skin disorders. The carbon dioxide laser is a versatile tool, useful for vaporizing or destroying skin lesions. The treatment of vascular or pigmented (melanin) lesions requires lasers that emit wavelengths corresponding to the absorption spectrum of haemoglobin or melanin respectively. Choosing the right laser gives optimal cosmetic result whereas the wrong lasers can lead to a less satisfactory result and even severe scarring. It is important to note that there is no single laser system that is versatile enough to be used to treat all skin disorders. To provide full coverage in the treatment of skin disorders, a laser centre has to be equipped with many different laser systems. This makes using lasers in the treatment of skin disorders very expensive.