What occurs when laser light reaches a target?

When laser light reaches a target, it is primarily absorbed by the tissue and converted into heat. This process is known as photothermolysis, which is fundamental to laser treatments in medical and aesthetic applications. The absorption of laser energy is influenced by the wavelength of the laser, the characteristics of the tissue, and the chromophores present, such as melanin or hemoglobin.

When the light is absorbed, the energy is transformed into thermal energy, causing localized heating. This is effectively utilized in various treatments, including hair removal, tattoo removal, and skin resurfacing, where the heat can damage or destroy targeted tissues while sparing the surrounding areas. This selective absorption is crucial for minimizing damage to adjacent tissues and achieving desired therapeutic outcomes.

In contrast, other phenomena such as refraction, enhancement of surrounding tissue, or dispersion do not accurately capture the laser's interaction with the target tissue in the context of medical laser applications.