A Brief Introduction to Laser Technology

2021.10.28

The economical growth of the cosmetics industry is one of the many reasons why companies target laser technological advancements as their main choice of marketability. Though laser technology is not new, it has withstood the test of time and is considered one of the safest and most reliable innovations in medical science. 

Its practicality is a testament to how much it has adapted in application throughout the years. Today it’s one of the most multifaceted tools in the medical field and is used in many different types of medical operations. Aside from the wonders that it can provide in dermatology, it’s also considered an efficient tool for many types of modern medical procedures. 

 

The History of Medical Laser Technology

The inception of target laser technology dates back to as early as the 1900s. However, its first medical applications began around the 1960s. American surgeon Leon Goldman was a pioneer in laser technology in dermatology. He conducted bloodless operations that utilized laser technology which revolutionized the way doctors can repair damaged tissue on patients. 

Goldman also pioneered the use of lasers in the dermatological field. He was able to treat skin diseases such as melanoma with the use of laser technology. Years later, laser treatments became a popular tool to remove skin irregularities such as warts, birthmarks, or even tattoos with little to no scarring.

At present, target lasers are widely used in the cosmetics industry and continue to remain a popular choice for many skincare enthusiasts. With the growth of beauty and aesthetics at its most rapid peak, it’s no surprise why laser technology is only evolving and adapting to different kinds of treatments. 

 

Applications of Laser Technology in the Medical Field

Though laser treatments are a staple in the dermatological sector, many other branches of medicine rely on efficient medical devices that utilize laser technology. Compared to how the community initially perceived laser technology when it was first introduced to the market, experts today even prefer laser technology when it comes to performing certain medical procedures. 

The applications of laser technology have expanded drastically over the past decades. Plenty of medical procedures today are considered safer with the use of target lasers. At present, the most common medical procedures that utilize laser technology are as follows:

 
  • Cancer Therapy
    In oncology, laser technology is a very common tool that is utilized for cancer therapy. Experts can destroy or remove potential or actual cancer cells without the need to use a scalpel. Cancer therapy typically utilizes a strong beam of narrow light or laser that can be adjusted in different wavelengths. Since tumor cells absorb light differently compared to normal cells, the device can be adjusted according to the wavelength that is necessary for treatment.
     

  • Nerve Regeneration
    - People who are suffering from injuries to the nervous system can undergo therapeutic laser treatments to aid in neural regeneration. Studies have shown that therapeutic target lasers are proven to help those who have suffered from motor accidents or sports-related injuries. Additionally, laser technology is capable of providing immediate local effects to patients who have undergone treatment. 
     

  • Eye Operations

    - With the advancements of technology today, eye operations have become a more popular choice for people who have been suffering from poor vision. Target lasers are capable of performing operations that require precision and accuracy. At the same time, utilizing lasers when performing operations allow medical experts to seal tiny blood vessels which can reduce bleeding. LASIK or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis is a type of operation done in the eye to correct myopia or hyperopia. It is considered safe with minimal downtime with 90% of patients reporting 20/20 vision within a span of 2 to 3 months. 
     

  • Dental Treatments 
    - Laser technology that is applied in dentistry can address different kinds of conditions with teeth whitening probably being the most popular. Target lasers can also be used to treat hypersensitivity by seeling the roots of the affected teeth. Lasers can also efficiently remove inflamed tissue that is suffering from gum disease and treat different stages of tooth decay. 
     

Dermatological Lasers Defined

After discussing some of the applications of laser technology outside the field of dermatology, let’s now talk about how lasers today are still considered one of the most efficient and effective tools that can address different skin conditions. There are different kinds of target lasers in dermatology and some of them can address multiple or specific types of problems. 

In the cosmetic industry, common laser treatments aim to improve the well-being of the skin. Most patients who are taking advantage of laser technology for cosmetic purposes wish to restore and rejuvenate their skin for beautification purposes. Other laser treatments are intended for correction or restoration after experiencing traumatic injuries on the skin. Here are some of the common reasons why patients undergo laser treatment procedures in the field of dermatology.

 
  • Laser Resurfacing and Rejuvenation
    - Treatments and procedures that utilize laser technology aim to rejuvenate the skin by getting rid of the damaged cells on the surface of the dermis to bring out the healthy layer underneath. This method is considered one of the most reliable methods for rejuvenating the skin and can address issues like scars, fine lines, and wrinkles, as well as acne marks and hyperpigmentation.
     

  • Vascular Lesions
    - Hemangiomas, birthmarks, or tiny broken facial blood vessels are some examples of vascular lesions that can be treated by efficient target laser technology. Treatments are often performed on different areas of the face and legs. Patients prefer this method instead of going under the knife since it’s considered minimally invasive with little downtime. 
     

  • Tattoo Removal 
    - Removing a permanent tattoo can be easily done after a few laser sessions. Target laser tattoo removals work by breaking up the pigments underneath the dermis using a high-density beam of light. Since black pigments absorb laser wavelengths better than other colors, it is considered the easiest type of tattoo to remove.  
     

  • Laser Hair Removal 
    - Using laser technology to slow down or eliminate the growth of unwanted hairs has become even more popular in recent years. Both men and women are increasingly taking advantage of laser hair removals for cosmetic purposes. The procedure is performed using a target laser that emits light which is absorbed by the pigments of the hair. Heat is then generated which is enough to damage the hair follicles to continuously delay its growth. 

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