What substance is primarily absorbed in the hair follicle during laser treatments?

The primary substance absorbed in the hair follicle during laser treatments is melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of hair, skin, and eyes, and it is located within the hair follicle. When laser hair removal is performed, the laser targets the melanin present in the hair. The energy from the laser is absorbed by the melanin, which converts it into heat. This heat effectively damages the hair follicle, inhibiting further hair growth.

Understanding the role of melanin is crucial in laser treatments, as the effectiveness of the procedure often depends on the contrast between the pigment in the hair and the surrounding skin. In individuals with darker hair, the higher melanin concentration allows for more efficient absorption of the laser energy. Conversely, lighter hair has less melanin, making it more challenging to treat with lasers.