Dr. Paul Friedman’s Review of Dual Non-Ablative Fractional Lasers Earns Editor’s Choice in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine
At Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center of Houston, we take pride in leading advancements in dermatology and aesthetic technology. Recently, our director, Dr. Paul M. Friedman, authored a landmark review article selected as the September 2025 Editor’s Choice in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (LSM),1 the official journal of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. (ASLMS).
The review, “Current Trends and Future Directions of the Dual 1550-nm Erbium Glass Fiber and 1927-nm Thulium Fiber Non-Ablative Fractional Laser System,” evaluates one of today’s most versatile technologies in aesthetic medicine: the 1550/1927-nm dual non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL).
Dual Wavelengths, Dual Benefits
The 1550-nm and 1927-nm wavelengths address a wide range of skin concerns. The 1550-nm wavelength effectively treats uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars, while the 1927-nm wavelength targets sun damage and discoloration. By creating microscopic zones of controlled injury, fractional photothermolysis stimulates skin renewal while minimizing downtime and risk of bulk heating.
Proven Efficacy and Expanding Applications
Dr. Friedman’s review highlights extensive clinical data showing improvements in skin pigmentation, texture, and tone, with minimal side effects. The addition of modern cooling technology has further enhanced patient safety. Importantly, the device’s use extends across all skin types, though careful protocols help mitigate risks like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones.
Beyond Aesthetics: Potential Preventive Benefits
The article also discusses emerging research suggesting that NAFL treatments may play a role in preventing keratinocyte carcinomas by lowering senescent fibroblasts and enhancing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression, indicating restoration of the protective mechanism against UVB-induced carcinogenesis. This finding opens new doors for using fractional lasers not only for cosmetic improvement but also for potential skin cancer prevention.
Leadership in Laser Innovation
Dr. Friedman, board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology, is internationally recognized as a physician, researcher, and educator in laser medicine. A Past President of ASLMS and recipient of the prestigious Leon Goldman Memorial Award, he has played a pivotal role in developing new laser systems and techniques now widely used around the world.
Explore the Future of Skin Care
At Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center of Houston, we’re proud to bring the latest innovations in energy-based devices to our patients. To learn more about how dual non-ablative fractional laser technology can benefit your skin, contact us to schedule a consultation.
Sources
1American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. The Current Trends and Future Direction of a Dual Non-Ablative Fractional Laser System. https://www.aslms.org/about-aslms/media-center/news/2025/08/25/the-current-trends-and-future-direction-of-a-dual-non-ablative-fractional-laser-system. Accessed September 10, 2025.