Beam Hazards to the Skin

Lasers used in dermatology and cosmetic surgery are common and are used to treat skin for a variety of conditions. While skin can tolerate a larger amount of exposure to laser beam energy than the eye, there are still serious injuries that can occur. In addition, the intense beam of a laser can ignite fabric or plastics that are in proximity to skin and cause burns.

• Visible spectrum and infrared: Lasers that operate in the visible spectrum and infrared wavelengths may cause mild erythema (sunburn) to severe blistering of the skin. Sometimes an ashen charring occurs in tissues of high surface absorption when exposed to short-pulsed, high-peak power lasers. This may or may not be followed by erythema.
• Ultraviolet: Lasers that radiate power in the ultraviolet spectrum can cause erythema, accelerated skin aging, and increased pigmentation.

To learn more about LSO visit our Medical Laser Safety Officer Online Training web page.