Ever wondered how the laser devices perform the miracle treatments they do. Please read the brief extract below.
Laser light (energy) has unique properties that allow it to be used therapeutically. Laser light is monochromatic (single wavelength), coherent (in phase, both in time and space), and collimated (light waves are parallel). These properties make possible the generation and delivery of high fluence (energy per area), which can interact with the skin. Additionally, the monochromaticity of laser light is essential for selective targeting of structures in the skin (chromophores), which preferentially absorb light of that wavelength. Commonly targeted chromophores in the skin, which each have their own unique absorption spectrum for laser light, include water, hemoglobin, melanin, and tattoo ink.
When laser light hits the skin, it may be reflected, transmitted, or absorbed. Absorbed energy is most responsible for the clinical effect because it is converted to thermal energy by absorption of heat by the intended targets (chromophores).