History of the Development of Lasers for Dermatological Applications

In 1916, physicist Albert Einstein introduced the concept that excited photons could stimulate emissions with characteristics of the original photon. That basis led to the invention of laser. Since then, over the past decades, there have been multiple breakthroughs in laser technology and remarkable progress in addressing various congenital and acquired dermatoses, e.g., vascular and pigmented lesions, tattoos, scars, and unwanted hair removal. In addition, advancements in laser technology and methodology have equipped patients and practitioners with a broader spectrum of therapeutic options, resulting in enhanced clinical outcomes. This chapter highlights the key historical moments in the history of various types of lasers in dermatological surgery.