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Picosecond lasers in cosmetic dermatology: where are we now? An overview of types and indications

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Abstract

Q-switched lasers have undeniably revolutionized the field of laser dermatology since four decades ago. Just as the first-generation laser emits its photonic signal in a few nanoseconds, the picosecond laser delivers pulse widths of at least ten times shorter. These devices offer a powerful tool for treating a wide range of skin conditions with a minimal downtime for visible improvement. For the current study, a literature research was performed on the dermatological applications of picosecond laser. The literature searched on this topic between 1999 and 2023 accessible through various platforms produce a result of 62 articles. The included studies have discussed the application of picosecond laser technology in tattoo removal, treatment of epidermal and dermal pigmentation, and collagen remodeling. After sifting the data from the articles into tables, the results were discussed in detail. The study shows a lot of evidence towards the efficacy of picosecond laser, yet it draws attention to its downsides.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre Laser Palaiseau, 49 Ter Rue de Paris, 91120, Palaiseau, France

    Diala Haykal

  2. Centre Médical Saint Jean, Arras, France

    Hugues Cartier & Cyril Maire

  3. Hemerion Therapeutics, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France

    Serge Mordon

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  1. Diala Haykal
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  2. Hugues Cartier
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  3. Cyril Maire
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DH had the concept for the writing with assistance from HC, CM, and SM. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Diala Haykal.

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Haykal, D., Cartier, H., Maire, C. et al. Picosecond lasers in cosmetic dermatology: where are we now? An overview of types and indications. Lasers Med Sci 39, 8 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-023-03945-5

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