What is photothermolysis?

Photothermolysis is defined as the process that converts light from a laser into heat. This mechanism is particularly significant in various aesthetic and medical applications, especially in the treatment of skin conditions and hair removal. The principle behind photothermolysis involves targeting specific chromophores (light-absorbing molecules) in the skin, which absorb the laser light. Once absorbed, this light energy is transformed into heat, leading to the destruction of unwanted hair follicles or the treatment of specific skin issues, such as pigmentation or vascular lesions, while sparing the surrounding tissue.

By understanding photothermolysis, practitioners can utilize lasers effectively, ensuring that desired results are achieved while minimizing damage to adjacent areas of the skin. This technique is foundational to many advanced cosmetic procedures that rely on selective photothermolysis to achieve safe and effective results.