Q-switched lasers have revolutionized the treatment of dermal pigmented lesions including: melanocytic nevi, nevus of Ota, and melasma. Prior to the advent of Q-switched lasers, these lesions were treated with nonspecific destructive means such as excision,dermabrasion,salabrasion, cryotherapy,solid carbon dioxide ice, or continuous wave laser ablation.These older methods were ineffective and often caused scarring or dyspigmentation. By selectively targeting dermal melanin, Q-switched lasers provide effective treatment of these lesions without risking textural or pigment alteration. The Q-switched ruby, alexandrite and 1,064 nm Nd:YAG are the most commonly used lasers. All of these lasers are still within the absorption spectrum of melanin yet also have wavelengths that are long enough to penetrate into the dermis. Broad band light sources (such as IPL) lack wavelength specificity and have longer (ms range rather than nanosecond range) pulse durations, making them unsuitable for treating dermal pigmented lesions.