Which laser emission results in the least thermal damage?

Non-ablative lasers are designed to minimize thermal damage to the surrounding tissues while still providing effective treatment. These lasers work by targeting deeper layers of the skin without significantly affecting the outer layer. By utilizing lower energy levels and longer wavelengths, non-ablative lasers stimulate collagen production and promote skin rejuvenation with minimal impact on the epidermis. This results in a gentler approach, leading to less thermal damage and a shorter recovery time compared to other laser types that may remove layers of skin or generate higher heat.

In contrast, erbium lasers and CO2 lasers are often more aggressive and can cause greater thermal injury to the treated areas, which can lead to more significant downtime and healing requirements. Ablative lasers, while effective for certain applications, also tend to remove surface layers of skin, increasing the risk of thermal damage. Thus, non-ablative lasers stand out due to their ability to balance effective results with safety and minimal thermal trauma.