What happens to lye in the thermolysis process during laser hair removal?

In the context of thermolysis during laser hair removal, lye, which is a strong alkaline solution, becomes caustic. During the thermolysis process, the targeted area is subjected to high temperatures generated by the laser or radiofrequency energy. This heat can cause the lye to further ionize, resulting in a more caustic environment. It is important for practitioners to understand this reaction as it informs them about the potential chemical interactions that might occur when using thermolysis techniques in hair removal.

Understanding why lye becomes caustic in this process is vital for ensuring proper safety measures and effective treatments, as a highly caustic environment can lead to skin irritation or damage if not managed appropriately.