What effect does skin pigmentation have on laser treatments?

Higher pigmentation in the skin can indeed lead to an increased risk of complications during laser treatments. This is primarily due to the increased absorption of laser energy by the melanin present in the skin. When the melanin absorbs the laser light, it can result in excessive heat, which may cause damage to the skin cells and increase the likelihood of side effects such as burns, hyperpigmentation, or scarring.

In contrast, lighter skin types typically have less melanin, allowing for more effective targeting of the treatment area while minimizing energy absorption by the surrounding skin. This distinction highlights the importance of considering skin type and pigmentation when planning laser procedures to ensure safety and efficacy. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for practitioners to evaluate the potential risks and adjust treatment parameters accordingly to achieve the best outcomes.