General info

Lasers are increasingly finding their way to the medical practice. Manufacturers, suppliers and users often use the name LASER incorrectly for other sources of energy. However, the aim of the various sources of energy is the same and is based on the theory that Rox Anderson published in his article on selective photothermolysis in 1983. The aim is always to heat or influence the skin with a certain energy component (chromophore) without damaging the surrounding tissue. Examples are melanin (hair removal and pigmentation disorders), haemoglobin (vascular applications) and water.

Light is the most commonly used, scientific and clinically developed source of energy for various applications in medically aesthetic and physiotherapeutic practices. The colour of the light (the wavelength) is one of the determining factors in the tissue's absorption of energy. The various components of the skin actually absorb various colours of light. The wavelength is an important parameter in, for example, choosing an appliance for hair removal or vascular applications.

A LASER is a special source of light which produces a very intense and concentrated ray of light of one single wavelength (mono-chromatic). This wavelength depends on the medium which is used to generate light.

Intense Pulsed Light or IPL is a source of light with various wavelengths (spectrum), which is also used for selective absorption.
The wavelength of light is not the only parameter which is important in obtaining the desired selective effects. The energy density (fluence), the duration of the pulse, the repetition frequency and the epidermal cooling are also important parameters which are essential for successful and safe treatment.

There is more information on the theory of selective photo-thermolysis and the questions which you should ask before buying an aesthetic laser or light system in CUTERA, a free publication: ‘Questions to Ask before Buying an Aesthetic Laser or Light System’.

Lasermedico is constantly on the look-out for a range which is as complete as possible. Besides the stand-alone laser or IPL systems with their individual applications, increasingly more manufacturers are offering platform systems which can provide various applications. Our representatives will join you in looking for the solution most suited to your practice: YOUR LASER SOLUTION !