In laser treatments, what does the term "chromophore" refer to?

In laser treatments, the term "chromophore" refers specifically to a structure that absorbs specific wavelengths of light. This concept is critical in understanding how lasers interact with various tissues in the body. Chromophores can be found in different biological molecules, such as hemoglobin in blood or melanin in skin, and they play a key role in the effectiveness of laser procedures.

When a laser is applied, the energy from the light is absorbed by the chromophore, which can then lead to heating or other changes in the surrounding tissue, depending on the intended outcome of the treatment. This principle is what allows lasers to selectively target certain elements within the skin or other tissues, facilitating a variety of therapeutic and aesthetic procedures. Familiarity with chromophores helps practitioners choose the appropriate wavelength of laser light to maximize efficacy while minimizing damage to adjacent tissues.