How to Pick the Right Laser (and Laser Provider)

Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.

In this conversation, Dr. Mina and Dr. Nicole Salame delve into the complexities of laser treatments in dermatology. They discuss the nuances of different laser technologies, the importance of provider expertise, and the safety considerations for patients. The conversation also highlights the need for patients to be informed about their providers' credentials and the specific lasers suitable for various skin types. Additionally, they explore innovative uses of lasers in treating medical conditions like skin cancer, emphasizing the potential benefits and limitations of these treatments. 

 

Key Takeaways:

• Lasers are customizable devices that target specific skin issues.
• Provider expertise is crucial for safe and effective laser treatments.
• Misconceptions about lasers being simple can lead to complications.
• Patients should prioritize safety and provider qualifications.
• Darker skin types can safely receive laser treatments with the right technology.
• Intense pulse light is risky for darker skin types.
• Lasers can be used innovatively for treating skin cancers.
• Understanding laser physics is essential for effective treatment.
• Patients should be aware of the potential for complications.
• Choosing the right provider can minimize risks and enhance outcomes.
• Patients often feel exhausted from frequent skin treatments.
• Laser resurfacing can treat precancers and rejuvenate skin.
• Non-ablative and ablative lasers are effective for skin health.
• Regular laser treatments can reduce skin cancer incidents.
• Choosing a board-certified dermatologist is crucial for skin care.
• A holistic approach to skin health leads to better results.
• De-influencing trends in skincare is important for patients.
• Innovative devices are changing the landscape of dermatology.
• The future of dermatology includes regenerative treatments.
• Understanding the difference between medical and cosmetic treatments is key.

In This Episode:

03:06 Understanding Laser Technology 05:49 The Importance of Provider Expertise 09:10 Navigating Patient Safety and Complications 12:11 Choosing the Right Provider 15:04 Lasers for All Skin Types 18:00 Innovative Uses of Lasers in Medicine 22:30 The Emotional Toll of Skin Treatments 23:10 Laser Treatments for Skin Cancer Prevention 26:28 Choosing the Right Laser Treatment 31:08 The Importance of a Trusted Dermatologist 33:02 Innovations in Laser Technology 36:10 The Future of Regenerative Dermatology

 

Nicole Salame, MD, FAAD is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon. She attended college at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) on numerous scholarships, graduating Cum Laude. She earned her MD from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) School of Medicine with induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA). She completed her dermatology residency at Emory University where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Salame then completed an American Society of Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)-accredited fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery at the prestigious SkinCare Physicians under the exceptional mentorship of innovators in the field. Dr. Salame is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), serves on several committees for the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS), and is an active member of the ASDS and Women’s Dermatology Society (WDS). She has been a sub-investigator for numerous clinical trials and serves as a peer reviewer for Dermatologic Surgery and JAMA Dermatology.

Her scholarly work has culminated in the authorship of over 30 peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters and more than 40 presentatio