Fluence
Pronunciation: FLOO-ents
The energy delivered per unit area during a laser or light-based treatment, expressed in joules per square centimetre (J/cm²), determining treatment intensity.
Full Definition
Fluence is a core parameter in the technical description of laser, IPL, and other energy-based devices used in cosmetic dermatology. It quantifies the total radiant energy incident on a surface area and directly influences the therapeutic effect and risk profile of a procedure. Editors reviewing device study manuscripts, treatment protocols, or regulatory submissions must ensure fluence values are accompanied by the correct SI unit (J/cm²) and are not confused with irradiance, which is power per unit area (W/cm²). The term is never hyphenated and should not be used interchangeably with 'intensity' in technical copy. Consistent units must be applied throughout a document.
Usage
Usage note: Always include the unit J/cm² when fluence appears in technical documents. Do not substitute 'intensity' as a synonym in clinical or regulatory copy.