Lasers and lights for treating pigmented lesions

Abstract

• Pigmented lesions were initially treated with destructive non-selective lasers. • Now pigment selective Q-switched lasers used. • Pigmented skin lesions are exceedingly common. • Selective destruction of pigmented lesions relies on the theory of selective photothermolysis. • Melanin has a broad absorption spectrum with absorption steadily decreasing with increasing wavelength. • Several Q-switched lasers fall within the melanin absorption spectrum. Their nanosecond pulse duration is effective since it is shorter than the thermal relaxation time of melanin.