Laser for a clear skin
There are various types of laser treatments for cosmetic and dermatological problems. The common man needs to be aware of the expected cost and adverse effects of the therapy, reports Vikas Sharma

New lasers are comparatively safe and more effective compared to the older versions

Skin laser surgery has grown in leaps and bounds during the last 10 years. As new laser technology has evolved over the years, dermatologists have also helped define the specificity of laser-tissue interaction and employed newly developed laser technologies in innovative ways.

One of the most important concepts has led to the creation of a series of laser systems, which have provided numerous unique advantages in the management of many common conditions of the skin and mucous membranes, even in infants and children.

There are various types of lasers available in the market for different cosmetic and core dermatological problems. But the common man should be aware of the types of lasers, which one is the best for his/her problem, the expected cost of the entire therapy, duration of the therapy, outcome (degree of beneficial effect) and the adverse effects of lasers.

The cost of laser therapy for different indications varies from Rs 1500 to Rs 3000 per session.`A0But one should not get over-excited, seeing the advantages of lasers, lights and other newer therapies. The one thing patients suffering from skin or cosmetic ailments should understand is that a mere one session of laser/light therapy won't cure their problems. The key lies in being regular during the whole course of treatment. The patients should also be aware of the conditions in which they cannot have laser therapy.

An important word of caution is that lasers in the hands of inexperienced and unqualified persons can prove disastrous. The greatest change is that these laser treatments are now affordable and approachable in India. Since the cost of skin and laser surgeries abroad is costly, it is encouraging patients from abroad, especially NRIs, to come and have treatment here, thus increasing medical tourism.

Older lasers used for skin surgeries were the continuous wave lasers like the carbon dioxide and argon lasers. However, the side effects of scar formation were unacceptably high with these lasers. The new lasers which have been introduced during the last two decades are comparatively safe and much more effective compared to the older versions.

The lasers differ according to the medium used in each laser. The characteristics of wavelength, pulse durations and the absorption by different chromophores within the skin determine the uses and clinical applications of different types of lasers in dermatology.

Ruby lasers have a wavelength of 694 nm and contain chromium ions in aluminium oxide as the medium. These are especially useful in tattoo reduction, laser hair reduction land reduction of pigmented (dark) skin lesions.

Fractional lasers produce microscopic treatment zones and target specific depths in the dermis. These are especially useful for the treatment of acne scars, wrinkles, sun damaged skin, etc.

It is important to know which laser will suite your skin type and for your particular cosmetic issue. The effects of laser energy on different structures of the skin depend upon the wavelength, the power density and the temperature characteristics of the laser.

Finally, it is important to note that one should not get over- excited and over-dependent on lasers as these have lots of limitations, too. Lasers do not produce same result for the same disease in all individuals since everyone has different cellular type and behaviour. It can produce excellent results as desired by both the physician and the patient in one case and not so good results despite cost and time in other individuals.

So one needs to be aware of the limitations of lasers and lights and, thus, have realistic expectations only. Just like the term worldwide used as permanent laser hair removal has now been replaced by laser hair reduction only emphasises the limitations of the treatment. Still, it is an exciting medical discovery, and if used properly, can solve skin problems to an extent.

The writer is Chief Consultant Dermatologist, National Skin Hospital, Panchkula