What is a key difference between laser and IPL?

The distinction made in the correct answer highlights the unique properties of laser technology. Lasers are characterized by being monochromatic, meaning they emit light of a single wavelength, which contributes to their effectiveness in targeting specific structures in the skin. This monochromatic nature allows for fine-tuning of the wavelength to match the absorption characteristics of the target tissue, such as melanin or blood vessels.

Additionally, lasers are coherent, meaning the light waves emitted are in phase with each other, which enhances their ability to focus energy tightly. This coherence allows for deeper penetration into the skin with minimal scattering, making lasers particularly effective for various dermatological and cosmetic procedures.

Furthermore, lasers are also collimated, which means that the light beams are parallel and do not spread over distance as much as other light sources. This collimation contributes to delivering concentrated energy to a targeted area, increasing the efficacy of the treatment while reducing collateral damage to surrounding tissues.

In contrast, intense pulsed light (IPL) is typically polychromatic, consisting of multiple wavelengths, and is not coherent, leading to broader scattering and less precision in targeting. This difference in light properties is crucial in selecting the appropriate treatment modality for specific skin conditions or hair removal purposes.