Laser and Light Therapy

Lasers represent a form of energy that can be manipulated to accomplish a number of medical procedures from the complex surgical removal of an acoustic neuroma in an operating room(OR) to the less invasive removal of unwanted body hair or facial rejuvenation in a salon or spa. Regardless of the procedure, it is important to understand the properties and safety aspects of laser utilization. This knowledge will enable you to manage a safe and successful laser and light therapy practice. Radio frequency (RF) devices have a very low frequency represented in devices such as Thermage™ (Solta Medical, Inc., Hayward, California). Radio frequency produces heat (thermal injury) deep within the dermis causing tissue tightening and remodeling. There is a difference between Radio Frequency and lasers. Lasers convert light to heat and target specific superficial structures or chromophores through a process of selective photo-thermolysis. RF produces heat to a greater volume of tissue when the tissue's electrical resistance converts the electric current to thermal energy deeper in the dermis. Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs). LEDs are neither a laser nor IPL. Through a process of thermolysis, Lasers and IPL selectively destroy a specific target. LED's have a much lower energy output and stimulate biological tissue by supporting collagen synthesis, repair, circulation, support the reduction of inflammation, and the appearance of some pigment.