Laser has been used in dermatology for over four decades. The concept of selective photothermolysis has transformed our understanding of laser tissue interactions, and there has been an explosive interest in laser treatment for both skin diseases and aesthetic indications over the past decade or more. Asian skin differs from Caucasian skin because of the higher amount of epidermal melanosomes and the higher level of melanin production. Laser- and light-based procedures in darker skin types have a significantly higher risk of complications, including scarring and pigmentary changes as compared...

This book discusses clinical data and biology of normal skin, skin conditions exclusive to individuals of color, systemic diseases of individuals of color with a strong component of skin involvement, and the appearance and demographics of common skin diseases.