Abstract: A method of stimulating collagen formation in a selected area of mammalian skin in which the selected area is irradiated with a source of visible or near infra-red radiation. The radiation is absorbable by intracellular chromophores to enhance cellular activity and increase collagen formation. A skin treatment device for carrying out the method of the invention is also described.

Abstract: A system for protection from light generated by interaction of laser energy with matter is provided. The system, which is designed for use with lasing apparatus having a laser, includes an optical protection device with at least one optical element of a material that transforms between an active state for blocking laser light and an inactive state, where the optical element is transparent. A mechanism for controlling the transformation of the optical element between the inactive and active states, attaches to the optical protection device and the lasing apparatus respectively, and is responsive to the activating and deactivating of the laser, such that when the laser is activated, the control mechanism causes the optical element to transform to the active state and when the laser is deactivated, the control mechanism causes the optical element to transform to the inactive state.

Abstract: A device permitting a single primary laser producing a collimated beam at a given wavelength, to be used for different purposes by converting the collimated beam to a beam of different wavelength. The device comprises a secondary laser disposed within a body removably attached to the distal end of an articulated arm delivery system attached to the primary laser. Preferably, the secondary laser is interchangeable with respect to the delivery system thus to extend the wavelength (color) coverage of the primary laser according to the required wavelength conversion. The secondary laser may include an optical crystal or a circulated organic dye solution within a removable cell or reservoir. Appropriate lenses are provided to focus the primary beam and to determine the spot diameter of the conversed beam.