The ArF Excimer Laser in Dermatology

Abstract

The argon-fluoride (ArF) excimer laser is a very unique laser that offers perhaps the best quality microdissection of tissues amongst all lasers available today. Sometimes called a cool laser, the ArF excimer laser is remarkable for its ability to remove tissue with a minimum of residual thermal injury in the tissue (see Figure 1). Unfortunately, the laser in its present form can cause significant unwanted damage from either photomechanical injury (photoacoustic injury) or photochemical injury. This paper will discuss both the good and the bad aspects of the ArF excimer laser, the mechanisms involved during tissue ablation, and some aspects of laser dosimetry pertinent to dermatological applications.