What does "blanching" refer to in laser treatments?

Blanching in the context of laser treatments refers to the temporary whitening of the skin that occurs when the heat generated by the laser causes the blood vessels in the skin to constrict. This response is typically a sign that the laser is effective in targeting the melanin or vascular structures beneath the skin. When the blood flow is reduced and the skin's surface temperature rises, it results in a lighter appearance, or blanching, which usually resolves shortly after the treatment as blood flow returns to normal.

This reaction is important for practitioners to recognize, as it can indicate the appropriate response to the treatment parameters being used. Observing blanching can help ensure that the laser settings are effective without causing unnecessary harm to the surrounding tissues. Understanding this phenomenon aids in the assessment of treatment effectiveness and in planning subsequent sessions if needed.