[Side effects and complications of therapy with laser and intense light sources].

The possible treatment errors and complications with the use of laser and non-laser light sources are presented along with corresponding preventive measures. Particular emphasis is laid on practice-related errors and how to avoid them. A checklist for the safe conduct of treatments using laser and non-laser light sources completes the article.

[Side effects of therapy with flashlamps and lasers].

Dermatologic flashlamp and laser therapy involves photochemical, thermal, photoablative, photoacoustic and phtoodisruptive effects, depending on the wave length, energy density and pulse duration. All of these effects when properly employed can lead to optimal dermatologic and cosmetic results. They also carry a high risk for side effects and damage when not properly used.