True or False: Melanin absorption increases with increasing wavelength within the optical window of 600 to 1100 nm.

The statement is false because, within the optical window of 600 to 1100 nm, melanin absorption actually decreases as the wavelength increases. Melanin, the pigment responsible for hair and skin color, absorbs light most effectively at shorter wavelengths, particularly around 600 nm or less. As the wavelength increases towards 1100 nm, the absorption of melanin diminishes significantly.

This characteristic is critical in laser hair removal, as the choice of wavelength influences the effectiveness of the treatment on different skin types and hair colors. Understanding the relationship between melanin absorption and wavelength helps practitioners select the appropriate laser type for achieving successful hair removal outcomes while minimizing harm to surrounding tissue.