Honoring the Past and Shaping the Future of Energy-Based Devices

This issue’s cover focus is anchored by an excerpt from a remarkable roundtable discussion that I moderated with Drs. R. Rox Anderson, Roy Geronemus, and E. Victor Ross—individuals who helped build the entire field of laser medicine as we know it today. What struck me most in revisiting this conversation is just how extraordinary that journey has been. From Dr. Anderson’s foundational work to the clinical advancements driven by Drs. Geronemus and Ross, the impact of their contributions is felt every day in practices around the world, and they continue to drive innovation in the field. For me, as someone who entered dermatology because of lasers, it was incredibly meaningful to reflect on how these technologies continue to change lives—from treating burn scars to improving vascular birthmarks.

At the same time, one of the key messages from our discussion is that this journey is far from over. While energy-based devices have become more widely available than ever before, they are not a hobby—you need to be all in. Understanding laser-tissue interactions, physics, and technique is essential. As access has expanded, so too have complications, which can happen with even the most experienced physicians, as our roundtable discussion revealed. Education, training, and safety precautions are critical for anyone using an energy-based device on a patient.

Our hope with this cover focus is not only to honor the pioneers who brought us here but to inspire the next generation. We need dedicated, highly trained laser experts who are committed to mastering this technology. It is an incredible privilege to treat patients with these powerful tools, but with that comes responsibility.

The pool is warm. We invite you to jump in.