[Side effects of therapy with flashlamps and lasers]

Dermatologic flashlamp and laser therapy involves photochemical, thermal, photoablative, photoacoustic and phtoodisruptive effects, depending on the wave length, energy density and pulse duration. All of these effects when properly employed can lead to optimal dermatologic and cosmetic results. They also carry a high risk for side effects and damage when not properly used. The risk of side effects depends greatly on the training and experience of the treating physician. Both a solid dermatologic training in order to correctly diagnosis skin changes and knowledge of laser principles are required.