Abstract

BACKGROUND:

There has been growing patient demand for laser technology to treat rhytids and to refine skin texture without the associated lifestyle hindrance common to ablative cutaneous procedures. Nonablative laser systems have been developed to meet this need and, in many instances, have replaced ablative lasers as the preferred treatment modality.

OBJECTIVE:

To review long-pulsed diode laser technology in the treatment of a variety of cutaneous disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

All publications involving 1,450 nm long-pulsed diode laser technology were reviewed and discussed.

RESULTS:

The latest generation of nonablative lasers, in the midinfrared electromagnetic spectrum, selectively targets and heats dermal tissue to stimulate collagen remodeling while sparing the epidermis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Demonstrating efficacy in the treatment of a wide range of cutaneous disorders, including facial rhytids, acne vulgaris, and atrophic scars, the 1,450 nm diode laser is a useful addition to the nonablative laser armamentarium.