What occurs if the pulse width is too long during a laser treatment?

When the pulse width is too long during a laser treatment, it can lead to ineffective treatment outcomes. This is primarily because a longer pulse width may cause the energy to be delivered too slowly, allowing surrounding tissues to absorb the energy instead of the target area. Consequently, the laser's energy may not adequately disrupt or destroy the intended targets, such as hair follicles or pigmented lesions, thus rendering the treatment less effective.

In contrast, a proper pulse width ensures that the energy is delivered quickly enough to effectively target and treat specific structures without adversely affecting the surrounding tissue. This balance is critical in laser treatments to ensure optimal results while minimizing any potential harm or discomfort to the patient.