A specific type of laser, usually a flashlamp pulsed dye laser, can be used to eliminate the color and some of the size of vascular anomalies. It works particularly well on capillary malformations, but is ineffective against larger vessel lesions. It is a very rapid procedure that can be performed in seconds for many cases. During this procedure, a child lies on a bed, and protective goggles are worn throughout the process. The therapy feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin. For very extensive lesions general anesthesia may be required. Several treatments are often necessary, depending upon the severity and responsiveness of the problem.