Light‐based devices in the treatment of cutaneous vascular lesions: An updated review

BACKGROUND: Light-based devices have been used to treat cutaneous vascular lesions almost since the original development of the laser. After the introduction of the initial continuous wave and pulsed laser systems, the pulsed lasers became the gold standard device. Since then, new devices and methods to treat patients have been introduced. OBJECTIVE: To review and summarize the current literature specific to treatment of cutaneous vascular lesions with light-based devices. METHODS: A review of the current literature of light-based devices used for the treatment of vascular lesions. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: New systems continue to be developed to treat vascular lesions with advantages and disadvantages compared to older devices. Nonlaser sources such as intense pulsed light and radiofrequency devices can also be used in the treatment of these patients. Newer approaches may lead to even better results.