Why might a practitioner choose a longer wavelength laser for a patient with deeper skin pigment?

Choosing a longer wavelength laser for a patient with deeper skin pigment is primarily beneficial because longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the skin while experiencing less absorption by melanin found in the epidermis.

In skin with higher levels of melanin, shorter wavelength lasers can be significantly absorbed by the melanin, leading to increased risk of adverse effects, such as burns or discoloration. In contrast, longer wavelengths have the ability to bypass much of this superficial absorption. This allows the energy from the laser to penetrate deeper into the dermis, targeting the intended structures—such as blood vessels or hair follicles—without damaging the outer layers of the skin.

Thus, utilizing a longer wavelength is particularly advantageous in patients with darker skin, ensuring that the treatment is both safer and more effective. This depth of penetration is crucial in achieving the desired results while minimizing complications attributed to melanin absorption.