The demand for facial rejuvenation and cosmetic procedures is rising among all ethnicities and skin types. The authors present a review of lasers and how to select a laser based on skin type and the treatment goals of laser resurfacing: skin laxity, dyschromia, hair removal, keloid, and hypertrophic scarring. In addition, they discuss preprocedural and postprocedural considerations, potential complications, and their management to maximize patient outcomes and minimize risk.
Key points
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Ethnic skin presents a unique challenge for laser skin rejuvenation because of higher density of larger melanosomes, thicker collagen bundles, and increased fibroblast responses.
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Lasers may be safely used in patients with dark skin tones by choosing fractional technologies with longer wavelengths, lower fluences, and longer pulse durations.
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The risks of laser therapy include scarring, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation.
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Developing careful treatment plans based on patient goals and maintaining careful attention to preprocedural and postprocedural management strategies can minimize the risk of complications.
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In the hands of an experienced laser surgeon, laser resurfacing in dark skin types may improve the appearance of fine wrinkles and even skin tone, texture, and pigmentation.
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