title: Evolution of laser skin resurfacing: from scanning to fractional technology.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Laser skin resurfacing was popularized for photoaged and scarred skin 2 decades ago. Since then, several technologic advancements have led to a new generation of delivery systems that produce excellent clinical outcomes with reduced treatment risks and faster recovery times.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To review the evolution of laser skin resurfacing from pulsed and scanned infrared laser technology to the latest techniques of nonablative and ablative fractional photothermolysis.
  
  
  METHODS
  All published literature regarding laser skin resurfacing was analyzed and collated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A comprehensive review of laser skin resurfacing was outlined and future developments in the field of fractionated laser skin treatment were introduced.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Laser skin resurfacing has evolved such that excellent clinical outcomes in photodamaged and scarred skin are achieved with rapid wound healing. As newer devices are developed, the applications of this technology will have a dramatic effect on the delivery of medical and aesthetic dermatology.
authors.affiliation: *Department of Dermatology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, Manchester; †Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC.
authors.forename: Arif
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Aslam
authors.forename: Tina S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Alster
mesh_terms: D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures / Q000639:trends*; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000639:trends*; D010778:Photochemotherapy / Q000639:trends; D012060:Rejuvenation