From Einstein to the Present: The Evolution of Laser Technology and Its Role in Facial Rejuvenation

Albert Einstein laid the foundation for laser technology in 1917 by developing the theory of stimulated emission of radiation. Based on this theory, in 1960, Theodore Maiman produced the first laser light using a ruby crystal, and soon after, lasers began to be used in ophthalmology.

The principle of selective photothermolysis, which allows lasers to target specific tissues, enabled the development of lasers designed to treat particular tissues. One of the first lasers developed was the pulsed dye laser with a 577 nm wavelength, used for treating vascular lesions and tattoos.

The CO2 laser, developed in 1964, was initially in continuous wave mode. However, transitioning to pulsed mode later revolutionized the field of facial rejuvenation.

In the mid-1990s, the introduction of short-pulsed Er:YAG lasers, either alone or in combination with CO2 lasers, provided another option for facial rejuvenation.
In 1991, Fitzpatrick and Goldman used the CO2 laser to treat facial wrinkles and actinic damage, achieving significant improvements. Following this advancement, short-pulsed, high-energy CO2 lasers became widely used for treating photo-damaged skin and acne scars.

After 1995, lasers also became an essential tool in plastic surgery. Today, the laser technology that Einstein theoretically grounded continues to contribute to making people look younger and healthier in both medical and aesthetic fields.