Which wavelength range should be avoided in laser hair removal (LHR) due to absorption by oxyhemoglobin?

Prepare for the SWINA Laser Exam with expert-crafted flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes detailed hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam success!

The correct choice is associated with the wavelength range of 577-595 nm, which is known to be absorbed significantly by oxyhemoglobin. This absorption is important to consider in laser hair removal procedures because when a laser targets hair follicles, it is optimal for the wavelength to be absorbed primarily by the melanin in the hair rather than by other chromophores like oxyhemoglobin in the blood vessels.

Using a wavelength that is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin can lead to unintended side effects, such as increased heat in the surrounding tissue, which can cause discomfort, skin damage, or pigmentation changes. Therefore, selecting a wavelength range that minimizes absorption by oxyhemoglobin while effectively targeting the melanin is crucial for safe and effective laser hair removal.

The other options either fall outside this critical absorption range or represent wavelengths that do not pose the same risks associated with oxyhemoglobin absorption. In laser hair removal, practitioners typically aim for wavelengths that have a higher affinity for melanin, such as those in the 700-900 nm range, which minimizes the risk of unwanted absorption by other bodily tissues.

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